Reds Willing to Trade Rental Players
Earlier this month, when the Reds had a 41-45 record and were close to the NL Wild Card race, GM Brad Meador stated that the team wasn’t ready to decide on a trade deadline strategy. However, after being swept by the Nationals and falling to a 47-53 record, it seems the team has now decided to inform other clubs that they’re open to trading players on expiring contracts, according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network.
It’s not surprising that Cincinnati would only consider trading rental players. The team has a promising group of young talent, including star shortstop Elly De La Cruz and right-hander Hunter Greene, which should keep them competitive in future seasons. This year, injuries to key players like Matt McLain, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, TJ Friedl, Brandon Williamson, and Graham Ashcraft have complicated matters. By keeping their core players and veterans with longer-term contracts like Jonathan India and Jeimer Candelario, the Reds can aim to strengthen their roster for a playoff run in 2025.
The Reds have a short list of pending free agents, but it includes notable names. Right-hander Frankie Montas, whose $20 million mutual option for 2025 will likely be declined, is a significant trade candidate. Righty Nick Martinez, with a $12 million player option for 2025, could also be available, along with outfielder Austin Slater, lefty Justin Wilson, and right-handers Buck Farmer and Lucas Sims, all of whom will be free agents after this season.
Morosi reports that the Orioles are interested in Cincinnati’s rental pitchers, including Montas and Martinez. Baltimore needs starting pitching help after losing Kyle Bradish, John Means, and Tyler Wells to season-ending injuries. Their rotation now consists of Dean Kremer and Albert Suarez, behind top starters Corbin Burnes and Grayson Rodriguez. Adding another playoff-caliber starter and depth would benefit the Orioles.
Montas, 31, has struggled with a 4.85 ERA and 5.04 FIP in 89 innings this year, with inconsistent performances. Despite his recent difficulties, he had a successful stint with the A’s from 2018 to 2022. However, his stats have declined since shoulder surgery last year, including a drop in strikeout rate and an increase in walks. Despite these issues, his history as a solid mid-rotation pitcher could still attract teams in need of pitching.
Martinez might be a better fit for the Orioles. The 33-year-old has excelled as a swingman over the past three seasons and has a 3.88 ERA and 3.15 FIP this year. His low walk rate and ability to limit home runs make him valuable. Martinez has mainly pitched in relief but can start when needed, providing the Orioles with versatile pitching depth.
Besides Baltimore, other teams like the Dodgers, Astros, Red Sox, and Padres are also looking for starting pitching. Many contenders also seek bullpen help, which could make rental bullpen arms like Wilson, Farmer, or Sims attractive trade options.
