The 2024 MLB trade deadline is set for 6 PM ET on Tuesday, July 30th, and as of late Monday night, the Cincinnati Reds remain at a crossroads. Following a frustrating loss to the Tampa Bay Rays—one that saw an excellent start by Hunter Greene wasted due to a lackluster offensive showing and a bullpen collapse—the Reds are still searching for direction with the deadline just a day away. Sitting in last place in the NL Central at 50-55, they remain five games below .500 but are still within striking distance of the final NL Wild Card spot, just five games back with 57 left to play.
Despite being in the mix, Cincinnati has yet to make any significant trade moves, with their lone acquisition so far being outfielder Austin Slater earlier this month. There were strong rumors surrounding second baseman Jonathan India, who has had a resurgence this season after an injury-plagued 2023. However, while the Yankees were initially linked to India, they instead pivoted to acquiring Jazz Chisholm Jr. The Seattle Mariners also reportedly had interest, though no deal materialized.https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574475442716
On the pitching side, the Reds still have trade assets, particularly in pending free agents like Frankie Montas and Nick Martinez. With the Texas Rangers having already moved Michael Lorenzen to the Kansas City Royals, there is potential for the pitching market to heat up. However, some expected trade partners, such as the Baltimore Orioles, seem to be prioritizing bigger names like Blake Snell rather than mid-rotation starters.
Notably absent from Reds-related discussions are any rumors of acquisitions. Whether this is due to the team waiting on the return of Matt McLain to act as a lineup boost or simply playing their cards close to the vest remains unclear. Regardless, the team’s inactivity is raising concerns about whether they are squandering one of the few seasons they have with Elly De La Cruz under contract. Just a year ago, the Reds were in first place at the deadline and chose a minimal approach to roster upgrades—could history be repeating itself?
Meanwhile, the rest of the league is beginning to make moves, with the Chicago Cubs making a notable splash by acquiring Tampa Bay’s Isaac Paredes just last night. With the Cubs and Reds set to face off as the deadline looms, their upcoming series could have significant implications for both teams' playoff aspirations. The question remains: will Cincinnati take action, or will they stand pat and risk missing a critical opportunity?
