With the MLB trade deadline quickly approaching, the Cincinnati Reds find themselves just 2.5 games out of a National League Wild Card spot following a solid series win over the New York Mets, and with the Washington Nationals up next, the urgency to add reinforcements for a potential playoff push is intensifying.
One team that could help address multiple roster needs for Cincinnati is the Arizona Diamondbacks, who, despite winning four straight, remain 4.5 games out of playoff contention and could shift into seller mode due to several expiring contracts.
Eugenio Suárez
If Arizona decides to sell, they could provide the Reds with valuable assets on both sides of the ball.
Former Reds fan favorite and current Diamondbacks slugger Eugenio Suárez, who leads the NL with 35 home runs and 85 RBIs, could offer a much-needed power boost in the middle of Cincinnati’s lineup and potentially slot back in at third base, especially as the Reds experiment with Noelvi Marte in the outfield.
Eugenio Suárez
First baseman Josh Naylor, another impending free agent who’s batting .292 with 11 home runs and an .814 OPS, is also a viable target, having been linked to the Reds in past trade rumors.
Though starters like Merrill Kelly and Zac Gallen would undoubtedly bolster the rotation, both are reportedly lukewarm about pitching at Great American Ball Park.
However, veteran reliever Shelby Miller could still be an ideal bullpen upgrade once he returns from a forearm injury later this month.
With multiple impact players potentially available from Arizona, the Diamondbacks could serve as a one-stop solution to the Reds’ biggest needs — assuming they decide to sell before the July 31 deadline.
