4 Reds players who could quietly be on the trade block even as Cincy looks to buy

The Cincinnati Reds are reportedly looking to buy at the MLB trade deadline, but GM Brad Meador also mentioned the idea of selling assets as well. "We have to keep playing well to be able to think about adding," Meador told MLB.com. "That being said, we’re always going to look at both short term and long term. What that means right now, I don’t really know."

That's a rather broad and sweeping way to suggest that a handful of players who are currently on the Reds roster may be moved before the July 31 deadline. Obviously core players like Elly De La Cruz, Chase Burns, and Andrew Abbott won't be dealt, but others who (by being traded) could help to rebuild the farm system or bolster the bullpen could be on the trade block.

With Cincinnati now looking to potentially buy and sell, which four Reds players could be moved at the MLB trade deadline?

4 Reds players who could quietly be dealt as the MLB trade deadline nears

Christian Encarnacion-Strand, Reds infielder

Christian Encarnacion-Strand was once viewed as a big piece of the Reds future, but he's now seen as little more than depth in the minor leagues. Encarnacion-Strand has tremendous upside and absurd power, but an inability to stay healthy and far too many strikeouts have many Reds fans wondering if this is the end of the line for the slugging first baseman.

Rece Hinds, Reds outfielder

The Reds have been relatively patient with Rece Hinds since drafting him in 2019, but the power-hitting outfielder has yet to find a permanent home on the active roster. Hinds' power is his calling card, and the young slugger has done a good job of cutting down on the strikeouts at the Triple-A level this season. Will Cincinnati remain committed to Hinds or look to trade him at this year's deadline?

Taylor Rogers, Reds pitcher

This could be little more than wishful thinking, but given Taylor Rogers' lack of success recently, the Reds would love to send him packing at the deadline. The Reds received half of Rogers' $12 million salary in a trade with the San Francisco Giants earlier this year, but would probably still be somewhat unwilling to just eat the remainder of his contract. Nevertheless, with so many teams desperate for left-handed relievers at the deadline, perhaps Cincinnati can find a buyer.

Will Benson, Reds outfielder

This one might sting a little, but when it comes to tradable assets that might actually bring back something of value in return, Will Benson could be atop the list. The Reds have gone almost exclusively with Jake Fraley in right field since the second-half of the season began, and now with Noelvi Marte getting reps in the outfield, Benson's role with the Reds is severely diminished. There's a chance Cincinnati could look to move the former first-rounder before next week's deadline.