Reds Rumors: Yankees pursuing multiple Cincy relievers as MLB trade deadline looms

These latest Reds rumors won't sit well with the fanbase, but it appears as if the New York Yankees are looking to poach some of Cincinnati's relievers. According to MLB reporter Pat Ragazzo, the Yankees are pursuing multiple Reds relievers with the trade deadline looming. Ragazzo goes on to say that the Reds have scouts headed to Tampa to watch the upcoming Yankees series against the Tampa Bay Rays.

This would seem to fly in the face of what fans throughout Reds Country see as a prime opportunity for Cincinnati to buy, not sell, at the MLB trade deadline. Heading into play on Friday, Cincinnati is just three games back in the chase for the final NL Wild Card spot.

Reds Rumors: Yankees pursuing multiple Cincy relievers as MLB trade deadline looms

But while these latest Reds rumors may be unsettling, it shouldn't come as a surprise. Given the depth of relievers down at Triple-A and the contractual situation with a number of Cincinnati relievers, the Reds could sell-high on a handful of arms and then call-up some of their young relief pitchers to the big leagues.

Lucas Sims, Buck Farmer, and Justin Wilson will become free agents after the 2024 season. Both Nick Martinez and Brent Suter are in a similar boat, but Martinez can opt out while Suter has a club-option for 2025. The only three Reds relievers who are guaranteed to be under team control beyond next season are Alexis Diaz, Fernando Cruz, and Sam Moll — most fans would assume that that trio are virtually untouchable unless the Yankees pay a high price.

Down on the farm, the Reds have pitchers like Tony Santillan, Randy Wynne, Yosver Zulueta, Casey Legumina, and Zach Maxwell who could receive an opportunity should Cincinnati part ways with one or multiple relievers at the MLB trade deadline.

Buckle up, Reds fans. It's that time of year when the Reds rumors will be coming at you on a daily basis. The Reds are currently walking this fine line between contending for a playoff spot and selling off valuable assets at the MLB trade deadline. The next couple of weeks could be crucial in determining their plans for the future.

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