Cincinnati Reds’ Latest Trade decision Hints Shockwaves To The MLB Market

The Cincinnati Reds made a surprising move by designating Jeimer Candelario for assignment, despite still owing him \$32 million entering the season. This kind of bold decision is highly uncharacteristic for the Reds’ front office and ownership, but it could signal a shift in approach as the MLB trade deadline approaches.

Candelario’s DFA might be an early indication that Nick Krall and the front office are ready to take a more aggressive stance this year. In past seasons, Reds fans have grown used to lackluster trade deadlines, with the team making low-impact additions like Mychal Givens and Sam Moll that did little to truly strengthen the roster.

 

 

By cutting ties with Candelario, the Reds are showing they’re no longer willing to let underperforming veterans occupy valuable roster spots. They had the option to demote Christian Encarnacion-Strand or Connor Joe, both of whom have minor league options, to make room for Candelario. Instead, they chose to move on from the veteran entirely, leaving him to seek opportunities elsewhere.

DFA’ing Jeimer Candelario hints that Reds are about to be agressive at the MLB trade deadline

Designating Jeimer Candelario for assignment is just the latest indication that the Reds are going all-in this season. In truth, their commitment may have been clear as far back as October, when they hired Terry Francona to replace David Bell. The team needed a jolt, and bringing in a veteran, Hall of Fame-bound manager was a strong statement of intent.

Cincinnati’s recent decision to promote top pitching prospect Chase Burns for Game 2 against the Yankees further reinforces that this season is different. In the past, fans might’ve seen someone like Randy Wynne or Aaron Wilkerson take the mound. But now, after just 13 minor league starts, Burns will make his big-league debut — a bold and aggressive move.

 

 

The Reds’ offense has started to heat up, and their rotation remains solid. Still, if they’re serious about a postseason push, GM Nick Krall must strengthen both the bullpen and the lineup. Banking on injured players like Austin Hays and Noelvi Marte to return and contribute is risky. The team needs more depth now — ideally a right-handed bat and at least one reliable reliever.

Cincinnati has a deep farm system full of young talent that other teams would covet in trade talks. Could this finally be the year Krall parts with some of those prospects to make a big move? After cutting ties with Candelario, the answer may very well be yes.