The Cincinnati Reds were strong out of the gate after the All-Star break with a 6-2 record and a +25 run differential during that stretch. However, the Reds have since stalled at 59 wins on the season and they’re currently in the midst of a four-game losing streak.
As of July 29, Cincinnati is five games back of the St. Louis Cardinals in the National League Central division. With the non-waiver trade deadline set for 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, July 31st, it’s time for America’s oldest professional team to test the trade market.
MLB.com’s Mark Sheldon wrote that the Reds aren’t likely to be major players at the trade deadline. He wrote that a combination of the expected return of key role players from the disabled list, budget limitations and a lack of top prospects will contribute to Cincinnati’s “quiet” trade deadline. In an interview with Sheldon, Cincinnati’s GM Walt Jocketty said that the Reds have not engaged in serious trade talk with other teams.
If we do acquire a right-handed bat, what do we do with Ludwick when he gets back? If there is somebody available that can definitely help the club, we’ll certainly take a look. To this point, we haven’t had any conversations with a club that indicated that.
The Reds could potentially trade for a right-handed hitter or a pitcher to improve their bullpen. However, with all of the key contributors expected to return from the DL in the second half of the season, Cincinnati is unlikely to make a trade at the deadline.