In their inaugural significant trade of the 2024 season, the Cincinnati Reds bolstered their outfield and bench depth by acquiring San Francisco Giants outfielder Austin Slater. However, this move appears to have ruled out the possibility of acquiring Brent Rooker, a highly sought-after target before the deadline.
The Reds traded left-handed reliever Alex Young along with cash considerations to secure Slater, who excels against left-handed pitching. He fills a critical need in Cincinnati’s injury-plagued outfield, which ranks poorly in offensive metrics against left-handed pitchers. Slater, a veteran presence at a team with an average hitter age of 27.3 (second-youngest in the National League), is expected to platoon with left-handed hitter Will Benson.
Many analysts had linked Rooker to the Reds in recent weeks, viewing the former All-Star from the Oakland A’s as a fitting addition to Cincinnati. Rooker is known for his power as a pull-hitter, and Great American Ball Park, known for favoring right-handed hitters, could have been advantageous for him. He enters his first year of arbitration this offseason and remains under team control until 2027.
However, Rooker’s defensive limitations have been a concern, having played only 14 games as an outfielder in 2024. In contrast, Slater has experience across all outfield positions, primarily playing right field this season. Despite Slater’s defensive runs saved (DRS) rating of minus-1, it compares favorably to the injured Reds outfielders such as Nick Martini, TJ Friedl, and Jake Fraley. It also represents an improvement over current options like Benson and Spencer Steer. Slater has also seen action at first base, albeit sparingly since 2019.
The A's first hit is a Brent Rooker bomb 💣 pic.twitter.com/3fn4JwLX8Y
— A's on NBCS (@NBCSAthletics) July 3, 2024
While the Reds still need to address offensive deficiencies throughout the team, Rooker, primarily a designated hitter, could still find a role on the roster. If Cincinnati chooses to stick with their current outfield configuration alongside Slater, they might redirect their focus to areas like first base, the bullpen, or other areas of need.
The acquisition of Slater could signify the Reds either preparing for a larger move closer to the trade deadline or opting to navigate through their current injury challenges with existing resources.