The Cincinnati Reds never spend money like a team trying to contend because they're a small market with cheap ownership. But this year, they've put together one of the more expensive payrolls in franchise history, with the Opening Day roster accounting for $126 million in spending. This ranks in the middle of the pack after the Reds spent less than $120 million last season and less than $100 million in the two years before that. But they haven't spent the money in the right places. Reds Have Too Much Money Wrapped Up in Struggling Players May 4, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Cincinnati Reds third baseman Ke'bryan Hayes (3) hits a two-run home run against the Chicago Cubs during the fourth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images Let's look at a list of the top 2026 salaries for the Reds this season: Leading the way is third baseman Eugenio Suárez, who is earning $15 million this year.…