With the MLB trade deadline approaching, the Cincinnati Reds are well-positioned to make a smart move—if they act strategically.
While most of the trade talk surrounds the usual names, the Reds should keep a close eye on the Los Angeles Angels.
Currently fourth in the AL West and hovering below .500, the Angels may be nearing a full rebuild, and if they decide to sell, Cincinnati could target a pair of valuable additions.
Two players from Anaheim stand out as intriguing options: outfielder Taylor Ward and left-handed reliever Reid Detmers.
Both would provide immediate help and valuable versatility, potentially boosting the Reds’ Wild Card hopes.
Ward is having a solid yet under-the-radar season, batting .231 with 23 home runs, 76 RBI, and a .793 OPS in 381 at-bats. His 115 OPS+ means he’s performing 15% better than the league average.
Taylor Ward
While his .305 OBP isn’t eye-catching, his power and clutch hitting have been key—highlighted by a dominant May stretch where he batted .407 with a 1.382 OPS and won AL Player of the Week.
His advanced metrics (.337 wOBA, .336 xwOBA, 14% barrel rate, and 90.3 mph average exit velocity) suggest his success is legitimate.
Reid Detmers, a former first-round pick, has transitioned into a power arm out of the bullpen this season. He’s made 42 appearances, tossing 45⅓ innings with 55 strikeouts and a 4.17 ERA.
His 10.9 K/9 and 3.24 FIP (indicating better performance than ERA shows) suggest he’s been hindered by bad luck or weak defense.
With a 28.5% strikeout rate and three years of team control left, Detmers fits the mold of a bullpen weapon the Reds could use during the stretch run.
Taylor Ward
Other teams, including the Cardinals, have already shown interest in Detmers, valuing his strikeout upside and team-friendly contract.
For the Reds, Ward and Detmers could be affordable trade targets who strengthen the roster without requiring a major sacrifice.
If the Angels decide to rebuild, Cincinnati has a prime opportunity to swoop in and fill key gaps with impactful players.