The MLB trade deadline looms less than three weeks away, and with the Cincinnati Reds approaching the All-Star Break, rumors are heating up. Positioned delicately between potential buyer and seller status this season, the Reds are actively evaluating their options to strengthen the team.
While there has been some buzz surrounding a potential trade for Jazz Chisholm Jr. of the Miami Marlins, it appears he may not be the ideal fit for Cincinnati. Instead, another Florida-based outfielder, Randy Arozarena, emerges as a more compelling candidate for the Reds. The 29-year-old left fielder has been rumored to be available since December, despite experiencing a career-worst season currently, batting .203 with a .679 OPS.
Arozarena boasts a career slash line of .255/.344/.438 and has accumulated 11.8 bWAR over five seasons. He has consistently played over 140 games per season since becoming a full-time starter with the Rays in 2021 and has showcased his power-speed combination by achieving 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases in each of the last three seasons. Known for his postseason heroics as well, Arozarena brings a proven track record of success both in regular-season play and during crucial playoff moments.
Comparatively, Chisholm, though younger and financially cheaper with a $2.6 million salary for this season compared to Arozarena’s $8.1 million, has not established himself as a strong defensive centerfielder and has only surpassed 100 games played in a season once.
The Marlins are open to trading CF Jazz Chisholm Jr., sources confirm @CraigMish’s report.
A couple teams have expressed interest in Chisholm, with the trade deadline now 3 weeks away. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 9, 2024
President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall and the Reds will have an opportunity to assess Chisholm firsthand this weekend as the Marlins visit Cincinnati before the All-Star break. Both Arozarena and Chisholm are under team control for the next two seasons, implying that any potential trade involving either player would likely demand a significant haul of prospects.
For the Reds, who are eyeing a postseason push, Arozarena’s blend of offensive prowess and playoff experience positions him as the preferred target over Miami’s Chisholm. This strategic approach underscores Cincinnati’s intent to fortify their roster effectively as they navigate the trade deadline landscape.