Yankees beat writer Eric Boland reported that Cincinnati Reds scouts were in attendance at Yankee Stadium on Monday night, where the New York Yankees were facing off against the Tampa Bay Rays.
This development suggests that the Reds may be eyeing Tampa Bay first baseman along with relievers Pete Fairbanks and Garrett Cleavinger as the trade deadline nears. Cincinnati is reportedly in the market for both a middle-of-the-order bat and bullpen reinforcement—needs the Rays could potentially satisfy in a single deal.
Díaz made a strong impression during Tampa Bay’s recent series in Cincinnati, hitting two home runs over the three-game set. He could be a great fit in a Reds uniform. While Fairbanks didn’t pitch in that series, he made his presence felt Monday with a four-out save against New York.
Reds scouting trip all but confirms Cincy is targeting Yandy Dìaz and other Rays’ standouts
Despite winning Monday’s game in New York, the Tampa Bay Rays seem to be straddling the line between selling and buying as Thursday’s trade deadline nears. They traded catcher Danny Jansen to the Milwaukee Brewers earlier in the day but also brought in Nick Fortes from the Miami Marlins.
If the Cincinnati Reds are truly seeking a major offensive upgrade, Yandy Díaz stands out as the top option available on Tampa Bay’s roster. The veteran infielder is slashing .284/.816 with 19 home runs this season. Only Junior Caminero has better numbers among Rays hitters, and he’s reportedly off-limits in trade discussions.
On the pitching side, Pete Fairbanks could also be of interest. The right-hander is 4-3 with a 2.84 ERA and 17 saves in 39 relief appearances. With a club option for 2026, Fairbanks could provide the Reds with some stability if closer Emilio Pagán departs in free agency this offseason.
Another potential bullpen target is lefty Garrett Cleavinger, who’s quietly having a strong year. He owns a 2.45 ERA with 50 strikeouts in 32⅔ innings and remains under team control through 2027, making him an appealing long-term piece.
With the deadline fast approaching, Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall may need to act soon—and the Rays could emerge as a key trade partner in the final hours.
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