3 players from the AL Central the Reds could target at the MLB trade deadline

The American League Central Division might be the worst in all of baseball. The Minnesota Twins currently lead the division, but three of the other four teams in the AL Central are out of contention and are likely to be sellers at the MLB trade deadline.

The Cincinnati Reds, on the other hand, look to buyers at the deadline. After dropping the first series of the second-half to the Milwaukee Brewers with what can only be described as an anemic performance the plate, fans probably want to see the Reds target hitters.

But the more likely scenario is targeting pitching at this year's trade deadline. Who are three players from the AL Central that could be on the Reds radar as the MLB trade deadline approaches?

1. Reds could target Royals RHP Scott Barlow at MLB trade deadline.

The idea of trading for Scott Barlow has been mentioned before; especially after the Cincinnati Reds missed out on his former Kansas City Royals teammate Aroldis Chapman. But it's time to focus in on the right-hander, as the Royals are not going to be competing anytime soon.

Barlow is under contract for $5.3-million this season and will be owed a raise through arbitration next year. But with very little money committed to next year's payroll, the Reds could easily take on Barlow's 2024 salary.

Barlow is no stranger to closing games, as the 30-year-old has over 50 saves during his career. HIs numbers have dipped a little bit this season, but the strikeouts are still there. But a walk-rate above 10-percent and 4.09 ERA are above his career numbers.

If the Cincinnati Reds are looking to add relief help, looking to acquire a player who brings team control beyond just the 2023 season should be a must. The Kansas City Royals will be looking for young, controllable assets, so a trade for Scott Barlow would require the Reds to part ways with a prospect or two.