The Cincinnati Reds have already been connected to several free agents and trade targets this offseason. Some of these moves, like pursuing Luis Robert Jr., seem logical, while others, such as Nick Pivetta, have sparked debate. One thing is certain: the Reds are determined to strengthen their roster.
One potential strategy is to target players whose performance doesn’t align with their current contracts. This could involve exchanging unfavorable contracts—Jeimer Candelario comes to mind—or acquiring a player with minimal return in a trade package. These types of deals can sometimes yield significant upside.
3 high-upside trade targets whose bloated contracts give the Reds a chance to buy low
Jordan Montgomery, Arizona Diamondbacks
If there’s one MLB player eager for a fresh start, it’s Jordan Montgomery. The left-handed pitcher struggled through a rough 2024 season, a point Arizona Diamondbacks owner Ken Kendrick made painfully clear. Kendrick labeled the Montgomery signing a “horrible deal” and the team’s “biggest mistake of the season.” Ouch.
Despite the criticism, Montgomery opted into his 2025 player option. This creates an opportunity for the Reds to potentially buy low on the 2023 World Series champion and bolster their rotation. While some fans feel Cincinnati’s pitching depth is already sufficient, Nick Krall’s moves often speak louder than his words.
Sonny Gray, St. Louis Cardinals
Sonny Gray didn’t experience a decline in performance during 2024, but his hefty contract didn’t align with his output. Entering the second year of a three-year deal, Gray is set to earn a combined $65 million in 2025 and 2026—a steep price for a St. Louis Cardinals team in the midst of retooling their roster.
While trades within the division are rare, this one could prove mutually beneficial for both Cincinnati and St. Louis. The key factor would be whether the Reds assume the full financial burden of Gray’s contract or present a smaller trade package. Either way, adding a seasoned arm to their rotation could significantly enhance Cincinnati’s chances of contending for the NL Central title in 2025.
Chris Bassitt, Toronto Blue Jays
Chris Bassitt endured a challenging 2024 season after a stellar 2023 campaign that saw him lead the league in wins and earn Cy Young consideration. The former All-Star finished with a 10-14 record for the Toronto Blue Jays. Heading into the final year of his $63 million contract, Bassitt is set to earn $22 million in 2025.
Over the past four seasons, Bassitt has been a model of durability, averaging 30 starts and 178 innings pitched annually since 2021. With the Reds emphasizing longer outings for their pitchers next season, Bassitt could be a valuable addition to their rotation. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays, aiming to go all-in for 2025, might consider offloading his salary to create flexibility for other roster upgrades.
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