Reds' post-All-Star break road trip is about more than wins and losses

The Cincinnati Reds did not get out of the blocks on Friday night against the Washington Nationals. Cincinnati struggled to score runs early, and Franke Montas' successful start turned into a disastrous one after the Nats put a four-spot on the board in the fourth inning.

The Redlegs will head back onto the field on Saturday with an opportunity to get back on track and even the series. But the Reds' current road trip is about much more than wins and losses, it'll determine how the team approaches the upcoming trade deadline.

The MLB trade deadline is sure to be a seller's market. With only a handful of teams truly out of contention as the second-half begins, the number of clubs looking to upgrade the roster will surely outweigh those who will be turning their attention to next season.

Reds' post-All-Star break road trip could dictate whether they're buyers or sellers at the MLB trade deadline

The Reds are in an interesting spot — they're not bad enough to sell off a bunch of assets, but the team isn't good enough to go on a buying spree before the July 30th deadline. The next eight games, however, could bring some clarity.

The Reds will close out their current series against the Nats on Sunday before heading to Atlanta. Cincinnati will have a day off next Thursday after a three-game tilt with the Braves before making a stop in St. Petersburg to battle the Tampa Bay Rays.

Every other team ahead of Cincinnati in the standings — except the Pittsburgh Pirates— lost on Friday night, so the Reds still sit just three games back in the NL Wild Card race. If the Reds remain within striking distance at the MLB trade deadline, look for the Reds to buy. But if Cincinnati loses, say, six of their next eight games, the idea of trading some of the club's relievers will likely come into play.

There were rumors earlier this month that the New York Yankees were pursuing several Reds relievers. Pitchers like Lucas Sims, Buck Farmer, and even Nick Martinez could be on the move if Cincinnati doesn't have a successful road trip.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors