Reds rumored to be nearing deal with 2-time World Series Champion

FanSided's baseball insider Robert Murray seems to be chasing all the Reds rumors of late. Murray is reporting that relief pitcher and two-time World Series Champion Hunter Strickland is nearing a deal with the Cincinnati Reds. It's not yet clear if this a major league deal, or a minor league signing with an invite to spring training.

Last season, Strickland suited up for three different teams, spending time with the Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Angels, and Milwaukee Brewers. Strickland owned a 2.61 ERA in 57 relief appearances during the 2021 season. Until now, the Reds had yet to make any significant additions to the bullpen.

Latest Reds rumors suggest Cincinnati has signed a reliever.

The Cincinnati Reds bullpen could sure use a boost, and it looks as if they'll get it with the addition of Hunter Strickland. After trading Amir Garrett, allowing Michael Lorenzen and Mychal Givens to leave via free agency, and losing Lucas Sims and Tejay Antone (for the season) to injury, the Reds relief corps is in need of pick-me-up.

Strickland may be able to provide that. The 33-year-old has a lifetime ERA of 3.11 over nearly 350 games pitched. Strickland has 21 saves to his name as well, but it's doubtful the Redlegs will turn to the Georgia native to be the team's closer.

Strickland would add depth to a bullpen that sorely needs it. While Sims is expected back rather quickly, the remainder of hurlers in the pen do not have a lot of major league experience. Outside of former New York Yankees relievers Justin Wilson and Luis Cessa and former Colorado Rockies pitcher Jeff Hoffman, Cincinnati has very few experienced relief pitchers.

Art Warren and Tony Santillan got their first real taste of the big leagues last season. Daniel Duarte and Alexis Diaz were just promoted to the 40-man roster last fall. Dauri Moreta had a terrific year in the minors last season, but will that success translate to the major leagues?

If these latest Reds rumors come to fruition, Cincinnati pitching coach Derek Johnson can breathe a little easier knowing that he'll have the steady, veteran presence of Hunter Strickland in the bullpen. Johnson has plenty more pressing issues on his plate heading into the 2022 season.