Yes, the Cincinnati Reds completed a trade with the San Francisco Giants earlier this week to strengthen the team’s struggling offense. However, the acquisition of Austin Slater shouldn’t obscure the fact that the Reds are leaning towards selling rather than buying as this year’s trade deadline approaches.
So, does this mean players like Jonathan India, Jeimer Candelario, or some of the Reds’ promising young talents will be put up for grabs before July 30th? Not exactly a repeat of 2022, but Cincinnati might consider moving players whose contracts expire after this season.
Relievers such as Lucas Sims and Buck Farmer could attract interest, as could starting pitcher Frankie Montas. Signed to a one-year deal last offseason, Montas could appeal to teams seeking a solid mid-rotation arm.
Recent rumors speculate about Montas potentially being traded by the MLB deadline. Jon Heyman of the New York Post listed him among pitchers likely on the move, suggesting a moderate chance he’ll switch teams this summer.
Frankie Montas, 2Ks in the 1st. pic.twitter.com/zsGHSxHTPt
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) July 4, 2024
While unlikely at present, the Reds aimed to add veteran experience with signings like Montas, Candelario, and Nick Martinez this winter, despite their current struggles, particularly with hitting. With promising pitchers in the farm system, including Rhett Lowder, Chase Petty, and Connor Phillips, an attractive offer might tempt Nick Krall to move Montas before July 30th if the Reds’ postseason hopes fade.
Should Cincinnati fall out of contention soon, dealing Montas might shift from possibility to reality as the MLB trade deadline looms closer.