Cincinnati Reds make Ryan Ludwick available

Add Ryan Ludwick‘s name to the list of potential outfielders available before this afternoon’s trade deadline. The Cincinnati Reds notified teams of his availability late Wednesday, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. It remains to be seen what the team will be looking for in return, however.

The 36 year old left fielder is hitting .260/.326/.394 for the Reds this season. His power production has seemingly completely been lost, however. Just two years ago Ludwick hit 26 home runs for the Reds. He missed most of the 2013 season to injury but has managed just 8 since, including 6 this season. That lack of power, coupled with his contract, may make moving him difficult for Cincinnati.

Ludwick’s contract carries a $9 Million mutual option for next season, but it contains a $4.5 Million buyout. That could prove to be more than an acquiring team is willing to pay in a potential deal, possibly forcing the Reds to either contribute cash to make a deal work or accept a minimal return.

Numerous teams could potential be fits for Ludwick given their apparent interest in adding a right-handed bat to the lineup – including the New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, Kansas City Royals, and others.