Reds trade rumors: Cincinnati expresses interest in Zack Wheeler

The latest Reds trade rumors have Cincinnati being in the mix for New York Mets’ starting pitcher Zack Wheeler. Could the Reds really be buyers at the deadline?

The latest Reds trade rumors have Cincinnati being in the mix for New York Mets’ starting pitcher Zack Wheeler. With the Reds 10 games under .500 and 13.5 games out of the NL Central, could they really be buyers at the deadline?

Wheeler has been a hot name in trade discussions of late. The Reds are apparently in the mix, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, with several other teams such as the Yankees and Brewers.

Wheeler was dominant for the Mets in his last outing against the Pittsburgh. Wheeler went 6 innings, allowed only 5 hits and a walk. He didn’t allow a single run to a team that lit up the Reds last week with 27 runs. He also struck out seven batters. Over his last three games, Wheeler’s gone 3-0, struck out 17 batters and has a 2.61 ERA.

This is a very interesting development, even if the Reds are unable to land Wheeler. It speaks to the fact that Cincinnati is looking toward 2019. The Reds trade rumors surrounding Scooter Gennett have quieted, Cincinnati seems unwilling to part with relievers David Hernandez and Jared Hughes, and the Reds have already closed the door on speculation regarding a trade for Luis Castillo or Amir Garrett.

Wheeler is under team-control through 2019, which would bode well for the Reds should they acquire the right-hander’s services. With the exception of Matt Harvey, who’s likely to be dealt before Tuesday, every player on the Reds roster is signed through 2019.

The Reds farm system is loaded with players that the Mets would love to get their hands on. Would the Reds be willing to part with one of their talented infielders like Shed Long or Jeter Downs? Cincinnati has been criticized by fans for having too many infielders and not enough pitching. Could a trade for Zack Wheeler be the answer that Reds Country is looking for?