3 Reds prospects who are untouchable at the deadline, 2 who should be traded

At the MLB trade deadline, you've got to give up something in order to get something. Since the playoffs expanded a few years back, more teams than ever are inclined to be buyers at the deadline rather than sellers. That can make deals difficult to come by, however, as the supply doesn't meet the demand. In other words, if the Cincinnati Reds want to make some additions at the deadline, it's going to come with a cost.

More times than not, those would-be sellers are forgoing a pursuit of the postseason this year and will be looking to acquire prospects instead. Cincinnati's farm system is brimming with young talent, but who's untouchable? Are there any Reds prospects who should be traded at the deadline?

3 Reds prospects who are untouchable at the deadline

Alfredo Duno, Reds catcher

If there's one area of the Reds' organization that's severly lacking, it's the catcher position. Outside of Tyler Stephenson — who's a free agent after the 2026 season — and Jose Trevino, Cincinnati has virtually no depth to speak of behind the plate. Alfredo Duno, who received an invite to participate in the MLB Futures Game, is a bat-first catcher who's learning the ropes in the minor leagues. Duno could be a top-100 prospect heading into next season and should be off limits in trade talks.

Sal Stewart, Reds infielder

Like Duno, Sal Stewart is slated to participate in the MLB Futures Game. Stewart is making quick work of the minor leagues, and some Reds fans believe he'll make his MLB debut sometime later this year. Given the Reds' lack of options at third base, Stewart would appear to be the next prospect in line to be given a shot at the hot corner. Given Stewart's breakout campaign in 2025, Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall would be crazy to part with him at the July 31 deadline.

Héctor Rodríguez, Reds outfielder

The Reds are starving for depth at the catcher position, but the outfield isn't in much better shape. Cincinnati has struggled for what seems like a decade to develop big league-caliber outfielders, but Héctor Rodríguez could change all of that. With such a need in the Reds' farm system, Krall and Co. cannot afford to trade one of their top outfield prospects.

2 Reds prospects who should be traded

Edwin Arroyo, Reds shortstop

Elly De La Cruz is the Reds shortstop of the present, and there's likely no plans to trade the superstar anytime within the next few years. Edwin Arroyo — known for his glove more than his bat — is the next man up, but is currently blocked by De La Cruz for the foreseeable future. Still considered by many to be a top-100 prospect, Arroyo should be moved at the deadline if it helps to secure a right-handed bat or an extra reliever.

Sammy Stafura, Reds shortstop

This one might be a bit controversial, but as was stated earlier, you've got to give up something of value in order to get something of value. Sammy Stafura is one of the Reds top-10 prospects, and any rebuilding team would love to add him to their farm system. Trading away their former second-round pick would be a hefty price to pay, but if the Reds are looking to acquire a player with multiple years of team control, it's going to take a bold move like this in order to get it done.