Noelvi Marte's miscues vs. Dodgers just made Eugenio Suárez Reds’ only real option

The Cincinnati Reds are rumored to be targeting a middle-of-the-order bat at this year's MLB trade deadline, and there's not a better option than Eugenio Suárez. The Arizona Diamondbacks' slugger averted disaster on Monday night after it was reported that X-rays were negative following a hit-by-pitch at the hands of Detroit Tigers pitcher Will Vest.

While Suárez's injury scare took center stage on Monday, Reds fans were left to watch Noelvi Marte make two questionable plays at third base during Cincinnati's 5-2 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Though only charged with one error, Marte's miscues cost the Reds dearly during LA's two-run fifth inning.

Marte's defense at the hot corner has been questionable since his ascension to the big leagues. He made 12 errors in just 55 games last season and has been worth -3 defensive runs saved (DRS) and -1 outs above average (OAA) in 2025. Marte's eventual home may be in the outfield, and for that reason, Cincinnati should make every effort to land Suárez ahead of Thursday's deadline.

Noelvi Marte collapse vs. Dodgers just made Eugenio Suárez Reds’ only real option

The price tag attached to Suárez is said to exorbitant. For a team like the Reds, they may have to sacrifice at least two top-10 organizational prospects. President of baseball operations Nick Krall and GM Brad Meador have been staunchly opposed to the idea of trading away top prospects, but if the team is going to make a second-half push, they're going to need reinforcements.

Adding Suárez gives Cincinnati an immediate upgrade at third base. That said, Suárez has been a below-average defender in his own right this season. The former Reds fan-favorite has 12 errors, -4 DRS, and -5 OAA. For his career, however, Geno's been at least an average defender at the hot corner. He also brings a .577 slugging percentage and 143 wRC+. The Reds lineup has lacked power all season long, and adding Suárez would unquestionably help in that department as well.

It would also enable Cincinnati to complete their transition of Marte from an infielder to an outfielder. If the Reds were to acquire Suárez, Marte could then be permanently moved to right field in a platoon alongside Jake Fraley or Will Benson.

This is a win-now move for the Reds, and one that Krall and Co. need to make. Heading into Tuesday's contest against the Dodgers, the Reds are two games out of a playoff spot. The lead in the NL Wild Card chase is not insurmountable, but continuous miscues at third base won't help the team's chances. It's time for the Reds front office to be bold and fix the problem.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors