2 Reds trade rumors we hope come true, 1 we hope doesn't happen

The Cincinnati Reds are taking an interesting approach to the upcoming MLB trade deadline. While some of the Reds' impending free agents may be one the move before July 30th, Cincinnati may also look to acquire some talent as well.

The Reds aren't the only team employing this strategy ahead of next Tuesday's deadline. The New York Mets, Tampa Bay Rays, and even the Pittsburgh Pirates could be looking to both buy and sell.

There've been a number of Reds rumors floating about over the past week or so — some of which are somewhat intriguing — however, there've also been some troubling rumors as well. Which two rumors do Reds fans hope will come true, and which one can just disappear?

Trading relievers on expiring contracts is a no-brainer for the Reds

The Reds are rumored to have made a number of relief pitchers available ahead of the MLB trade deadline. This list includes Lucas Sims, Buck Farmer, and Justin Wilson. Brent Suter would be among that group as well if he wasn't on the IL.

Why are the Reds doing this? Quite simply, there aren't enough spots on the roster. Pitchers like Emilio Pagán and Ian Gibaut are nearing their return to the active roster from the injured list, and Cincinnati has several talented prospects and minor leaguers they can use to help supplement the roster.

While Reds fans would prefer to keep Sims, Farmer, and Wilson on the roster, all three are free agents after the 2024 season ends. With that in mind, Cincinnati should get what they can in a market that is sure to be starved for relievers.

The Reds should trade Frankie Montas if there are any takers

Frankie Montas was signed to a one-year deal this past winter and the right-hander was named the Reds Opening Day starter during spring training. While Montas has had a few good games here and there, more often than not, he's been incredibly inconsistent.

But contending teams will be looking for middle-of-the-rotation starters on short-term deals at the deadline, and Montas fits that mold. While not a game-changer for most organizations, a handful of clubs would love to have Montas as their fourth or fifth option heading into the final two months of the season.

The Reds are unlikely to re-sign Montas during the offseason, and as is the case with the trio of relievers, Cincinnati should look to get something in return for the right-hander at the deadline.

The Reds have a couple back-end starters (Lyon Richardson and Julian Aguiar) down at Triple-A, and there's the possibility that Brandon Williamson could return later this season as well. Montas' numbers are that of a replacement-level player, and if another team comes asking, Cincinnati should at least listen.

Reds fans hope Jonathan India stays put at the trade deadline

After two down-years, the player that Reds fans knew and loved from his rookie season is back. Jonathan India had endured some tough times in both 2022 and 2023, but the 2024 season has seen the Reds' second baseman return to the type of player that everyone hoped he could be.

There are whispers that India could be moved at the trade deadline, but if Cincinnati did that, the rest of the season is lost. Being four games out of the Wild Card spot should keep Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall from doing anything foolish, but stranger things have happened.

Reds fans shouldn't be shocked if India was dealt at the upcoming MLB trade deadline, but the fanbase would despise this type of move. While Matt McLain's impending return would make a potential deal more palatable, last year's rookie has yet to even take a swing in a minor league game this season. Reds fans are hoping that India stays put.

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