The Cincinnati Reds have entered the buyer’s market ahead of the MLB trade deadline, but their ideal target may suddenly be off the table.
Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suárez was hit by a pitch during Monday’s game against the Detroit Tigers.
A 96 mph fastball from reliever Will Vest struck Suárez on the hand, forcing him to leave the game with the training staff.
D-backs manager Torey Lovullo has listed him as day-to-day.
The injury comes at a terrible time for Arizona, which had been actively shopping Suárez in hopes of landing a strong return before the deadline.
The two-time All-Star had become one of the most sought-after bats on the market, but any chance of a trade could be derailed if the injury proves serious.
Cincinnati is among several teams vying for Suárez’s services. Ironically, the Tigers—Monday’s opponent—are also interested, along with the Cubs, Brewers, Astros, and Mariners.
Suárez was having an All-Star caliber season before the Diamondbacks decided to sell, already parting with players like Josh Naylor.
GM Mike Hazen had hoped to get a significant haul for Suárez in a growing bidding war.
However, if the hand injury leads to a stint on the injured list, those hopes could be dashed.
This marks the second time this month Suárez has taken a hit to the hand, the first during the All-Star Game.
Arizona is awaiting X-ray results, and the team hopes Suárez will be cleared to play in Tuesday’s game.
Eugenio Suárez
But if he’s ruled out or lands on the IL, the Reds will likely pivot away from their top trade target.
Should Suárez become unavailable, Cincinnati has alternatives. ESPN’s Buster Olney recently connected the Reds to Tampa Bay Rays slugger Yandy Díaz.
Other potential targets include outfielders Ramón Laureano and Alex Call, both of whom are expected to be available before the deadline.
