Reds: 3 trade proposals to repair the broken bullpen

3. Reds trade Nick Senzel in blockbuster deal for relievers.

The Baltimore Orioles are in the unfortunate position of being the worst team in the American League East Division. That’s right, the same division with the high-spending New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox, the youthful and talented Toronto Blue Jays, and the resourceful and savvy Tampa Bay Rays.

If the Orioles ever want to compete, they have to sell their assets when it’s time. With two relievers who are having terrific seasons, the time is now. Paul Fry and Cole Sulser are unlikely to be part of the Orioles organization the next time the franchise is relevant. However, they could land a pair of players from the Cincinnati Reds who could impact their next chance at the playoffs.

Nick Senzel, while talented, has been unable to stay on the field. Prior to this major league debut in 2019, the Reds could’ve garnered a lot more talent in return had they attempted to trade the converted centerfielder. But, here we are, and Senzel’s trade value has likely never been lower.

Senzel is currently on the 60-day injured list following knee surgery, further complicating any thoughts the Reds front office may have about moving the 26-year-old. However, Senzel isn’t even arbitration eligible until after next season and is under team control through 2025.

If the Reds and Orioles were going to make a deal, it would undoubtedly have to include left-hander Paul Fry. Thee southpaw is 28 years old, owns a 3.12 ERA this season and doesn’t enter free agency until after the 2024 season. The Reds have no reliable lefty in the bullpen, as Amir Garrett is a shell of himself and Sean Doolittle has been virtually ineffective.

But with a player like Nick Senzel in the mix, Cincinnati’s front office would have to ask for more. Perhaps Nick Krall could pry Cole Sulser away as well. The 31-year-old has 36 punch outs through 24.1 innings this season. Sulser is also pre-arbitration eligible.

The Cincinnati Reds may have to add a player like last year’s second-round pick Christian Roa, and maybe another low-level prospect in order to complete the trade. But, with depth in the outfield, the Reds may have to sacrifice one of their more talented players in order to secure the services of Fry and Sulser.