Another ex-Reds starter cashes in and proves why trading arms is risky

Former Cincinnati Reds pitcher Michael Lorenzen just signed a one-year, $8 million deal with the Colorado Rockies. The 34-year-old spent last season with the Kansas City Royals, going 7-11 with a 4.64 ERA. According to ESPN insider Jeff Passan, Lorenzen's deal includes a team-option for 2027.

Lorenzen is the second ex-Reds pitcher to sign such a deal this offseason. Tyler Mahle, who had a measure of success with the Texas Rangers last season, recently agreed to terms with the San Francisco Giants. Mahle's base salary for 2026 will be $10 million, though he can hit escalators that allow the deal to max out at $13 million.

Lorenzen and Mahle represent the mid-to-lower tier of the starting pitching market this offseason, and yet, both pitchers are slated to make $8 million or more — the Reds are paying Hunter Greene $8.3 million in 2026. So it's easy to see why Cincinnati's front office has been so reluctant to trade one of their starting pitchers for a bat this offseason.

Michael Lorenzen's deal with the Rockies further illustrates the Reds' strategy this offseason

The Reds have added two outfielders to the roster — JJ Bleday and Dane Myers — but are still seeking an impact bat. Cincinnati's front office has resisted the urge to trade a starter because they'd have to backfill that spot in the rotation through free agency.

The Reds are walking a tie rope this offseason. Cincinnati's front office is trying to improve the team's roster while keeping costs down — a familiar theme for fans throughout Reds Country. To date, they've done a good job of adding to the bullpen, but the Reds' decision-makers have done little to bolster the team's lineup — one that finished among the bottom-third of the league in several meaningful categories last season.

Brady Singer's name has emerged in trade rumors. But even with Singer's salary likely approaching $12 million through arbitration, it's difficult to see Cincinnati trading their most durable starting pitcher. The Reds would likely prefer to deal from their farm system in order to supplement the lineup, but most organizations are looking for Major League talent, not prospects.

The Reds should get more clarity this week. The deadline to exchange arbitration figures is Thursday. If teams and players are unable to come to terms on an agreement, arbitration hearing will take place ahead of spring training.