The Cincinnati Reds are 20.5 games back of first place and could start selling at the trade deadline. With teams sniffing around Jay Bruce, we could see one of them make a blockbuster deal.
It’s no real surprise that the Cincinnati Reds will be unloading expiring contracts before August 1. They’re the fourth worst team in the majors and they clearly won’t be contending for a Wild Card spot. Their roster isn’t where the team wants it to be, and the future could be looking better as they only have the 14th best farm system according to Baseball Prospectus.
The #Reds have picked up the pace on Jay Bruce trade discussions. They're talking to at least 4 clubs. Seeking a top prospect in return.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) July 26, 2016
Jay Bruce is a clear choice to be traded away. He has a club option for the 2017 season, and then will be eligible for free agency. This past offseason, they dumped All-Stars Todd Frazier and Aroldis Chapman in preparation for a fire sale. The Reds, being realistic, know they won’t be ready to contend for the playoffs next season, so they will be shopping him for top prospects.
Bruce is having another All-Star season in right field. He’s hitting .271 with 24 home runs and 78 RBI. His offensive runs above average (per Fangraphs) is 11.7, and his slugging percentage is a career high .567.
The teams looking at Bruce must be somewhat wary however. While he is one of the best outfielders on the market, Bruce has had a major defensive issue this season. His defensive runs saved is at -12, fourth worst in MLB and worst among all outfielders this season.
So, while Bruce will probably provide a major offensive upgrade at the right field position for a team, his defense will likely be an issue. Perhaps this means an American League team will trade for Bruce, platooning him at both right field and designated hitter.
Regardless, Cincinnati will have a new right fielder by August 1. The Reds expect to get top prospects in return, so teams with strong farm systems will be more likely to trade. The Reds have plenty of pitching prospects, but they lack infield prospects. Look for a team with good organizational depth in the diamond to make a splash. (Note: The Indians are being left off this list due to several recent reports that they are backing off Jay Bruce)
With all that being said, here are the most probable destinations for Jay Bruce.
Next: Baltimore Orioles