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

Reds should target Tigers starter Michael Lorenzen in a potential trade

How bout it, Reds fans? Would you like to see Mikey Biceps back in a Cincinnati uniform? Michael Lorenzen could be an intriguing option for the Cincinnati Reds at the trade deadline, and one that the team could possibly consider.

Lorenzen signed a free agent contract prior to 2022 with the Los Angeles Angels after spending his entire major league career with the Reds. This past offseason, Lorenzen agreed to terms with the Detroit Tigers on a one-year deal.

Lorenzen expressed interest to start during his time with the Reds, and while he was given a handful of opportunities, it never really materialized. Since joining the Halos last season, all of Lorenzen's appearances have come as a starter.

This season, Lorenzen is 2-5 in 12 starts with a 4.00 ERA and 4.42 FIP. Reds fans may remember that flame-throwing version of Lorenzen from his days in the Queen City, but that's not who the right-hander is anymore.

During the 2020 season as a reliever, Lorenzen's fastball was in the 85th percentile according to Baseball Savant. Fast forward to this season, and the right-hander is now in the 62nd percentile. Lorenzen's strikeout-rate is down, but so is his walk-rate.

The beauty of trading for a starter like Michael Lorenzen is knowing that the versatility is there should a move to the bullpen become necessary. Trading for Lorenzen might cost the Reds a low-level prospect. That could be worth it if it means adding more depth to the Cincinnati Reds starting rotation.