[OffTheHook]

CINCINNATI -- Reds outfielder Ryan Ludwick became a free agent Wednesday after declining his $5 million contract option for next season, looking for a bigger deal after his strong second half played a big role in Cincinnati winning the NL Central title.
The 34-year-old Ludwick was the Reds' top hitter while first baseman Joey Votto missed 48 games with a knee injury, batting .340 with 12 homers and 36 RBIs. Ludwick hit .275 in 125 games with 26 homers and 80 RBIs. He went 6 for 18 (.333) with three homers, four RBIs and four walks in the division series loss to World Series champion San Francisco.
The Reds signed Ludwick to a one-year deal for 2012 that included a $2 million base salary, and he earned an additional $350,000 in performance bonuses based on plate appearances. After turning down his part of a mutual option for 2013, he gets a $500,000 buyout.
Although the Reds are interested in keeping him, Ludwick decided to see what kind of deal he can get on the open market.


http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/857863...ree-agents

[Strikeout King]

Ryan Madson also declined his option to become a Free-Agent

[Stardust]

I think the Reds will try to sign him, but they won't be that aggressive, knowing that Billy Hamilton is no more than one season away from being in the starting line-up.

[Mr. Pike Central]

I wouldn't sign Ludwick no more than 2 years, he's 34 years old right now.

[OffTheHook]

I think the Reds will try to sign him, but they won't be that aggressive, knowing that Billy Hamilton is no more than one season away from being in the starting line-up.

Can't wait to see Billy every day!!!!