During the Q&A portion of the latest Fair Territory episode, MLB insider Ken Rosenthal was asked which team should push hardest at this year’s trade deadline. Somewhat unexpectedly, he identified the Cincinnati Reds as a club likely to be among the most aggressive.
Rosenthal clarified that he doesn’t expect the Reds—or any team—to go fully “all-in,” noting that front offices are generally cautious due to the significant risks involved. Still, he anticipates that Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall and the rest of the front office will make bold moves ahead of the July 31 deadline.
“They’ve already made a big investment in this team,” Rosenthal said. “They have strong pitching, more arms on the way, and appear to be just one bat short. With Terry Francona in the mix, I’d expect them to make some moves.”
Reds Rumors: Insider Ken Rosenthal suggests Cincinnati will be aggressive at the MLB trade deadline
This is exactly what Reds fans want to hear. Of course, whether Rosenthal’s prediction actually comes to pass remains to be seen. Cincinnati fans have heard similar promises in the past about an aggressive approach at the trade deadline, only to see the team settle for additions like Sam Moll, Luis Cessa, and Mychal Givens.
Rosenthal made a valid point: the Reds clearly need another impact bat in the heart of the lineup. Several potential rental options could boost the offense, including Cedric Mullins and Ryan O’Hearn from the Orioles, Eugenio Suárez of the Diamondbacks, and Luis Robert Jr. of the White Sox—all of whom are expected to be available as the deadline approaches late next month.
Still, while adding a bat should be a priority for GM Nick Krall, pitching help can’t be ignored. Cincinnati’s depth on the mound has already been pushed to its limits this season, and heading into the final stretch without bolstering the bullpen—and potentially the rotation—would be a risky move.
Be the first to comment