Reds and Dodgers are rumored to have had preliminary trade talks involving Luis Castillo

Well, here we are, Reds Country. The rumor mill is beginning to heat up and the Cincinnati Reds are right in the middle of the action. If the latest Reds rumors are to be believed, and they should, it appears as though the Los Angeles Dodgers have began to test the waters in regards to a potential trade for Luis Castillo.

LA is not the first, and is unlikely to be the last team mentioned as a potential suitor for Cincinnati's ace. Castillo's performances of late have definitely made the right-hander more appealing to opposing GMs, and it's likely driven the price tag up in terms of a return for the pitcher's services.

According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, sources are saying that the Dodgers and Reds have had preliminary trade conversations about Luis Castillo. Morosi was also quick to point out that other clubs are showing interest as well. We've heard about the Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets, Minnesota Twins, and San Diego Padres all having interest in trading for La Piedra.

Latest Reds rumors suggest the Dodgers are pursuing Luis Castillo.

Luis Castillo might be the biggest name to move at the MLB trade deadline, which is a little over three weeks away. However, if a team like the Los Angeles Dodgers knows what they're willing to offer in terms of prospect capital, perhaps getting involved in the conversation early will help them ward off other suitors.

The Cincinnati Reds, however, have no reason to rush this potential deal. Castillo is under team control through next season, so Nick Krall and the entire front office can remain patient and wait for the best offer.

Two other pitchers who are likely to garner a lot of attention are Oakland A's right-hander Frankie Montas and Luis Castillo's teammate Tyler Mahle. Montas is currently dealing with shoulder inflammation and Mahle is on the 15-day IL with a shoulder strain.

These latest Reds rumors, I believe, are just the tip of the iceberg. While the Dodgers could offer the Reds a very nice return in exchange for Luis Castillo, Cincinnati is likely to hear from several other teams over the next few weeks.