Unwrap the Reds in the offseason

While the diamond at Great American Ball Park sleeps under the winter chill, the notion of a quiet baseball offseason is officially a myth in Cincinnati. Generating enough heat to melt the frost off the Ohio River, the Cincinnati Reds have unleashed a flurry of announcements this week that demand immediate attention. Ranging from immediate radio appearances to major festival returns, these updates prove that the organization is fully operational despite the lack of on-field action. Because fans have a limited window to act on several high-stakes opportunities, we are breaking down everything you need to know to survive the winter gap.

Redsfest Returns Home to a New Stage

Returning on January 16 and 17, 2026, the crown jewel of the Cincinnati winter calendar is back in full force. Redsfest presented by PNC serves as the ultimate bridge between seasons by transforming a cold convention hall into a vibrant baseball paradise. Marking a significant homecoming for the city itself, this event acts as the very first public gathering held inside the newly renovated Downtown Cincinnati Convention Center. While the venue was formerly known as the Duke Energy Center, its massive renovation sets the stage for a revitalized fan experience.

Offering unparalleled access to the team, the festival eliminates the barrier between the grandstand and the dugout. While children enjoy interactive games and bounce houses, aspiring sluggers can test their skills in the batting cages and speed pitch machines. Although the activities are endless, the true draw remains the chance to shake hands with the men who will take the field in 2026.

The Guest List Features Stars, Legends, and a New Skipper

Already turning heads with its star power, the initial roster for Redsfest 2026 promises a memorable weekend. Confirming a mix of rising stars and beloved icons in their latest Redlegs Insider, the organization is bringing out the big guns. 2025 All-Star pitcher Andrew Abbott will be in attendance alongside the energetic outfielder TJ Friedl. Joining them on the floor are catcher Tyler Stephenson and pitcher Graham Ashcraft, giving fans plenty of current talent to meet.

Reading like a history book of Cincinnati baseball excellence, the alumni list extends far beyond the current active roster. "The Mayor" himself, Sean Casey, will be shaking hands on Friday while Marty Brennaman brings his Hall of Fame voice to the event on Saturday. Other confirmed legends include closer Danny Graves, pitcher Bronson Arroyo, and catcher Devin Mesoraco. Perhaps the most anticipated arrival is the new manager, Terry Francona, who is scheduled to attend with his entire coaching staff. Since this serves as the first major opportunity for the fanbase to welcome the legendary skipper to the Queen City, the excitement is palpable.

High Stakes at the Hall

Adding a competitive element to the weekend, the Rick Steiner Memorial Poker Tournament presented by BetMGM takes over the Grand Ballroom on Saturday, January 17. Walking away with a guaranteed $10,000 cash prize, the winner of this high-stakes game earns serious bragging rights. Because each table features a "celebrity" player, you might find yourself staring down a bluff from a former Reds player, a coach, or a local broadcaster.

Benefiting the Reds Community Fund, the tournament offers a unique twist for card sharks who love baseball. Since the entry fee is currently $175, you need to move fast if you want a seat at the table. Including $2,000 in chips, dinner, and a Saturday pass to Redsfest, that price increases to $200 starting Saturday, December 6.

Banana Ball Takes Over June

Expanding its footprint in Cincinnati after a sold-out tour, the Savannah Bananas are returning to Great American Ball Park in 2026. Taking over for a three-game weekend series from June 19 through June 21, the most chaotic show in sports is back. Because the Savannah Bananas have become a global phenomenon, their "Banana Ball" format has revolutionized sports entertainment. Featuring a strict two-hour time limit and no bunting, the rules also state that fans catching foul balls count as outs.

Since tickets for these games are notoriously difficult to acquire, they usually vanish instantly through a national lottery. Offering priority access to Bananas tickets, the Reds have created a solution for fans who purchase a Reds Season Ticket Membership. By purchasing a plan of at least 13 games, you can skip the line and secure your spot. However, the deadline to utilize this "hack" is Friday, December 5.

Tune In Tonight for the Hot Stove League

Proving you do not have to wait until January for baseball talk, the Reds Hot Stove League radio show airs tonight, December 3. Broadcasting live from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. ET, the show is available on 700WLW or via the Reds website stream. Hosting the show from the BetMGM Sportsbook at The Banks, Tommy Thrall and Jim Day will guide fans through the latest news.

Joining the show are two crucial pieces of the Reds' future who will likely discuss their offseason preparations. Versatile defender Spencer Steer will join the broadcast alongside pitching phenom Rhett Lowder. Since Lowder is preparing for his first full season after his rookie debut, his insights will be particularly valuable to fans tracking the team's development.

Give the Gift of Baseball

As the clock ticks on holiday shopping, the Reds have introduced Holiday Flex Vouchers to solve your gifting dilemmas. Allowing the recipient to choose their own games for the 2026 season, these vouchers work for most seating areas in the ballpark. Because choosing specific dates for friends or family can be difficult, this flexible option removes the guesswork.

To ensure delivery before the holidays, you must place your order by Friday, December 12. Although shipping deadlines are strict, fans who miss the cutoff can pick up vouchers at the Great American Ball Park administrative entrance between December 10 and 18.

The Verdict

Whether you are chasing autographs at the convention center or chasing a flush at the poker table, the 2026 season begins now. With the Savannah Bananas offering the hottest ticket in entertainment and Terry Francona arriving to lead the squad, Cincinnati is proving once again that it is a baseball town 365 days a year. Before these deadlines pass, make sure you mark your calendars and get in the game.