Cincinnati Reds: 3 mutually beneficial trade packages for Aristides Aquino

2. Reds keep Aristides Aquino in the state of Ohio.

The Ohio Cup starts this week, but both the Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians could mutually benefit by doing business with one another. The Indians’ entire outfield is comprised of left-handed hitters, so adding a right-handed bat like Aristides Aquino to the mix could certainly help the Tribe. What might the Reds be able to receive in return?

It all comes back to pitching once again for Cincinnati. With an inconsistent start from the bullpen, having several available arms at the alternate site or Triple-A Louisville, once the minor league season begins, could definitely help this year’s Reds team.

At one time, Nick Sandlin was among the top young prospects in the Cleveland organization. The right-hander was taken in the second-round of the 2018 MLB Draft. Sandlin is a bit small for a starter, but his pitch repertoire would work well out of the Cincinnati bullpen.

The Reds could also snag another arm like Kyle Nelson. A southpaw, Nelson relies on a fastball/ slider combo to get hitters out, but not the way Amir Garrett does. While Garrett overpowers opposing batters, Nelson relies on command and control. His fastball barely eclipses 90-MPH, but he’s able to spin his slider with solid results.

Nelson has three minor-league options remaining and Sadlin, if added to the 40-man roster before next offseason, will have the same. Both would be developmental relievers with upside, which is better than what the Cincinnati Reds will receive if Aristides Aquino is outrighted and claimed off waivers.