3 'bad contract' swaps for Reds infielder Mike Moustakas

3. Reds could swap Mike Moustakas for D-backs Madison Bumgarner.

Madison Bumgarner is far removed from the dominant postseason pitcher that helped guide the San Francisco Giants to three World Series Championships. But the left-hander can still be an effective starter and has pitched over 145 innings during three of the past four seasons.

The Cincinnati Reds need another veteran starter or two. Bumgarner, who'll be entering his 15th big league season in 2023, certainly fits the bill. The southpaw has four All-Star appearances and a World Series MVP to his name.

During his time with the Giants, Bumgarner owned a 3.13 ERA and an ERA+ of 120. Since joining the Arizona Diamondbacks prior to the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, however, Bumgarner has an ERA of 4.98 and an 84 ERA+.

Bumgarner's contract is not as desirable as the aforementioned contracts for Hunter Dozier and Hyun-Jin Ryu. Bumgarner is owed more than Moustakas in 2023 alone, and is signed through the 2024 season as well. Over the next two seasons, Bumgarner is owed $37M.

With that in mind, Cincinnati would need to get creative if the front office chose to swap Mike Moustakas for Madison Bumgarner. Perhaps a highly-coveted prospect could be part of the deal. There's also Bumgarner's no-trade clause to overcome. The lefty may want some added assurances if he agrees to be dealt to the Reds.