The Cincinnati Reds decided not to trade Matt Harvey. This move could have ramifications beyond the end of 2018.
It was expected that the Cincinnati Reds would trade Matt Harvey. The former Mets ace had resurrected his career in Cincy, and while he may not have been the Harvey of 2015, he had still become a serviceable arm. With plenty of teams needing pitching as the stretch run approaches, Harvey was seemingly as good as gone. This especially seemed to be the case when he was claimed after being put on revocable trade waivers.
However, something strange happened. Even though the Milwaukee Brewers had put in a claim on Harvey, and were in need of pitching, a deal was unable to get done. Then, it was announced that the Reds will not be putting Harvey back on the wire, intending on keeping him for the rest of 2018.
I’m not sure if this was the deciding factor in the #Reds hanging onto Matt Harvey after the #Brewers claimed him. But word is that owner Bob Castellini “loves” Harvey, who has done a nice job of rehabilitating his image as a teammate in Cincinnati. Harvey is staying put.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) August 24, 2018
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Given that Castellini has such fondness for Harvey, and the decision to pull him back from waivers and retain him for the rest of the season, this could be a matter of looking ahead. Harvey, along with Anthony DeSclafani, have been the Reds two best starting pitchers this season. They have nearly identical numbers, with an ERA+ of 96, a 1.207 WHiP, and an ERA separated by 0.02 runs.
As such, it would not be a surprise for the Reds to look to sign Harvey this offseason. The Reds believe they are getting close to contending once again, and having Harvey getting closer to form can help. As DeSclafani also getting better as he returns to health, and a strong bullpen, Harvey could be a piece that the Reds need.
Out of all the impending free agents in the coming offseason, Harvey may be one of the more intriguing. For a time, he was one of the best pitchers in the National League before everything fell apart. The pairing between Harvey and the Mets had become toxic, with questions regarding his dedication and love of the nightlife shouted from the rooftops. While he has changed the narrative in Cincinnati, how many teams will be willing to take a chance on Harvey moving forward?
The Cincinnati Reds gave Matt Harvey a chance to turn his career around. He may well prove to be a part of the Reds plans beyond this year.