Reds match criteria Justin Verlander is seeking in order to waive his no-trade clause

After trading Max Scherzer to the Texas Rangers last week, it seems very likely that the New York Mets could be looking to deal Justin Verlander next.

The Cincinnati Reds have been mentioned as a possible landing destination for the former Cy Young Award-winner. Verlander would unquestionably upgrade the Reds starting rotation, not only for the remainder of this season, but 2024 as well.

However, there is one giant hurdle that exists if Cincinnati wishes to pull off this type of blockbuster trade. Verlander has a no-trade clause as part of his current deal, meaning he can void any attempt at trading him to a team that he has no interest in playing for. Does that include the Reds?

Reds match criteria Justin Verlander is seeking in order to waive his no-trade clause.

It would seem, with the current direction of the Cincinnati Reds organization, Justin Verlander may be willing to waive his no-trade clause if Nick Krall and Billy Eppler beginning negotiating a deal before tomorrow's trade deadline.

According to the New York Post's Jon Heyman, Verlander would consider waiving his no-trade clause if the team looking to acquire him was committed to winning in the near term. Verlander is under contract through next season and has a vesting option for 2025 as well.

Cincinnati definitely fits the criteria of team that's committed to winning in the very near future. After losing 100 games last season, David Bell's group has been invigorated by the play of a young nucleus who looks hungry to make some noise into October.

Heyman mentions the Houston Astros as a possible suitor, but without a Top 100 prospect in the their farm system, a trade for Verlander could be very hard to pull off. The Reds, on the other hand, have multiple Top 100 prospects.

Is a trade for Justin Verlander likely? Eh, it would seem to go against the plan that Nick Krall and the Cincinnati Reds front office set in place before last season. But the team finds itself in a unique position. If the ask isn't too great, don't be shocked if the Reds pull a rabbit out of their hat before the 6 PM ET deadline on Tuesday.