Reds Rumors: Frankie Montas, Nick Martinez drawing trade interest from AL East contender

The Cincinnati Reds were already beginning to look like sellers ahead of the All-Star break, but after being swept at the hands of the lowly Washington Nationals over the weekend, Nick Krall and Co. may be waving the white flag.

According to Jon Morosi of MLB Network, the Reds' embarrassing series loss to the Nats has made Cincinnati's trade deadline plans rather clear. The Reds are reportedly indicating a willingness to move players on expiring contracts.

Frankie Montas and Nick Martinez are on that list, and the Baltimore Orioles are interested in potentially acquiring one of the Reds' starters. Both right-handers were signed by Cincinnati this past offseason, and can become free agents after the 2024 season comes to a close.

Reds Rumors: Frankie Montas, Nick Martinez drawing trade interest from Orioles

Morosi called out Montas and Martinez by name, but the Orioles and other clubs could be interested in more than just those two hurlers. Relievers like Lucas Sims, Buck Farmer, and Justin Wilson will be free agents after the 2024 season as well.

The Orioles aren't the only AL East squad rumored to be intrigued by some of the Reds' pitching. A little over a week ago, more Reds rumors cited the New York Yankees as a possible suitor for some of Cincinnati's relievers.

Quite frankly, this shouldn't come as a shock to Reds fans. The team has been incredibly inconsistent this season, and if the front office is able to acquire some talented minor league players in exchange for a player that won't be on next year's roster, they should make the move.

The MLB trade deadline is scheduled for Tuesday, July 30th, but Reds fans may not have to wait until that date before seeing Cincinnati offload some of their talent. The Reds do have some depth in the minor leagues to help offset the loss of players like Montas and Martinez, but trading away players at the deadline is a clear sign that this team is looking toward the 2025 season.

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