The Cincinnati Reds have a 38-43 record, placing them 10 games behind the leaders in the National League Central Division and 3.5 games out of the National League Wild Card race. As the trade deadline approaches, the Reds face a challenging decision: whether to make a push for the playoffs this season or remain patient with their young roster and aim for better results next year. With various factors to weigh, here are four Reds players who are likely to be considered for trades before the 2024 MLB trade deadline.
Jeimer Candelario, who joined the Reds as a free agent after a midseason acquisition by the Chicago Cubs last year, has continued his strong performance at the plate. Leading the team with a .480 slugging percentage and tying for the most home runs at 14, Candelario has proven to be a valuable corner infielder. Despite his solid offensive contributions, the Reds have struggled to translate his performance into wins. Candelario is currently in the first year of a three-year, $45 million contract, which includes a club option for a fourth year. While the Reds may be hesitant to trade him, given his potential to bring a significant return, they might consider it given their slim playoff chances in 2024.
Frankie Montas, a high-priced free agent signed to a one-year, $16 million contract with a $20 million option for a second season, was expected to help transform the Reds into contenders. However, Montas has had difficulty finding his form, pitching only 41 Major League innings over the past two years and struggling in 2024 with a 4.48 ERA. He ranks in the bottom third of the league in both strikeout and walk rates. Despite his struggles, Montas, a former Cy Young candidate, could still be a valuable addition as a fourth starter for a team in need of pitching depth.
Brent Suter, a reliable left-handed reliever, has continued to perform consistently after a solid seven-year stint with the Milwaukee Brewers. Last year, Suter posted a 3.38 ERA with the Colorado Rockies, the best on the team, and he has maintained a sub-4.00 ERA with the Reds in 2024. Throughout his nine-year career, Suter has only once finished a season with an ERA above 4.00, showcasing his dependability in the bullpen. Although he does not strike out many batters, Suter is currently posting his lowest walk rate since the COVID-19 pandemic and ranks among the best in limiting hard contact. He could be a valuable under-the-radar acquisition at the trade deadline.
Nick Martinez, a versatile pitcher, has shown significant improvement after transitioning from a starting role to the bullpen. Initially struggling with a 7.36 ERA in five starts, Martinez has excelled as a reliever, boasting a 1.87 ERA over 33.2 innings, including 12 multi-inning outings. Despite his overall 4.25 ERA, his 2.93 expected ERA indicates potential for continued success in the second half of the season. Teams might trade for Martinez as a flexible reliever who can handle various roles, including high-leverage situations. Given his recent performance, Martinez is likely to attract interest from other teams, making him a valuable trade asset for the Reds.
In summary, the Reds’ challenging position in the standings and at the trade deadline may lead them to consider trading key players like Jeimer Candelario, Frankie Montas, Brent Suter, and Nick Martinez. Each player brings unique strengths that could benefit contending teams, providing the Reds with an opportunity to acquire valuable assets for the future.
