2 starting pitchers the Reds should target at the trade deadline & 2 they should avoid

Reds should not target Nationals starter Trevor Williams in a potential trade

Trevor Williams is a name that is sure to attract attention at this year's trade deadline. Much like the aforementioned Oakland Athletics, the Washington Nationals are rebuilding and will likely be sellers later this summer.

Williams, who most Reds fans probably remember from his time with the Pittsburgh Pirates, could be an option for Cincinnati at the trade deadline. Williams isn't going to put up gaudy numbers, but he is going to compete and give his manager five solid innings each time he toes the rubber.

Williams has gone five innings or more in 12 of his 15 starts this season. The right-hander currently has a 4.14 ERA and 5.17 FIP. Williams has a four-pitch repertoire, and will mix in a cutter from time to time as well, giving him a fifth offering.

Williams wouldn't cost that much in terms of prospect capital, but after signing a two-year/$13-million contract with Washington during the offseason, Cincinnati would be on the hook for the veteran's $7-million salary in 2024.

This feels like the type of deal that the Cincinnati Reds front office would typically avoid, as the club is rebuilding with a young nucleus in mind. So, while the return for Trevor Williams would be extremely low, taking on addition money heading into next season for a veteran starter seems unwise with the young nucleus of starters currently in the organization.