3 players Cincinnati Reds should put on trade block now
By David Hill
This is not the type of season that the Cincinnati Reds expected. Despite trading away several players to trim down their payroll, the Reds had designs on contending in 2022. At least, several of their subsequent moves indicated as such.
Instead, the Reds are 5-23 heading into Monday. They have been compared to the 1899 Cleveland Spiders and 1962 New York Mets, two of the worst teams in baseball history. Although they are getting some help in Luis Castillo’s return, it is far too little far too late.
Three players for Cincinnati Reds to trade now
Barring a miracle, the Reds will not be contending this year. This does actually give them an advantage over some other teams that will be selling as the trade deadline approaches – they could put out the ‘For Sale’ sign earlier than almost every other team and look to add a few prospects. The Reds, despite their struggles, have players that would have value.
It is time for the Cincinnati Reds to focus on 2023 and beyond. Let’s take a look at three players they should put on the trade block right now.
Tommy Pham
The Cincinnati Reds signed Tommy Pham to a one year deal with a mutual option for 2023 when they traded Jesse Winker. The hope was that he would return to form, providing a solid all around presence both at the plate and in the field.
Pham has lived up to expectations thus far. He has produced a solid .222/.333/.411 batting line, leading the Reds in both batting average and on base percentage this season, in his 105 plate appearances. The pop is there, as Pham has four homers and five doubles while stealing a base thus far.
As it is, there are plenty of teams that need help in the outfield. While Pham is primarily a left fielder these days, he does have plenty of experience in center over his career, and saw action in 11 games there in 2021. He had even expressed a willingness to learn to play first for the right team.
Although Pham may not generate headlines, he is someone that can make a difference. His solid contributions on offense, and ability to slot in different spots in the outfield, could make him an interesting trade chip. The mutual option could be a problem, but any interested team would have a longer period of time to attempt to get him to stick around if so desired.
Tommy Pham is the type of player that winning teams like to have in their lineup. He could be a solid trade chip for the Cincinnati Reds.