The Cincinnati Reds are in the hunt.
They’re close enough to a wild card berth that the expectation is they’ll be buyers at the trade deadline, writes The Athletic’s Jim Bowden.
Here’s Bowden’s full assessment:
“The Reds have been clear to opposing GMs that they want to add an outfield bat and boost their bullpen. Their farm system is loaded with infield and pitching prospects, and they’re as well-positioned as any contending teams to be able to fill both of those needs. With manager Terry Francona at the helm, the Reds are real contenders for a wild-card berth (they’re currently 2 ½ games back), and with the aggressive Nick Krall calling the shots in the front office, expect them to make a move or two between now and July 31.”
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The one big name Cincinnati has been linked to is Guardians left fielder Steven Kwan, although it isn’t clear Cleveland will actually trade its All Star.
More likely, the Reds go a bit down the totem pole to land a helpful piece, potentially on an expiring contract.
There are no shortage of bullpen arms available. Maybe someone like the Nationals’ Kyle Finnegan would make a lot of sense.
Assuming the Reds don’t scuffle in the next week-plus, there will be new faces on the way to Cincinnati.
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