When is the MLB trade deadline and what are the Reds looking for?

The MLB trade deadline and the weeks leading up to it are some of the most exciting times of the baseball season.

Contenders show a willingness to sacrifice young prospects, while those who see no way forward are willing to wave the white flag and try again next season.

For the last few seasons, the Cincinnati Reds have been sellers rather than buyers, but this year's MLB trade deadline could have a different feel.

When is the 2023 trade deadline and what are the Reds looking to for?

The 2023 MLB trade deadline is August 1st. With the Cincinnati Reds battling the Milwaukee Brewers for first-place in the National League Central, Nick Krall and the front office will likely be looking to add to the club's major league roster.

The Reds have some incredible talent and are way ahead of schedule in terms of the rebuild. That said, if Cincinnati hopes to contend down the stretch, the team has some glaring weaknesses that need to be fixed.

MLB Network's Jon Morosi is reporting that Cincinnati has made inquiries with other teams about acquiring starting pitching at the trade deadline. The Reds rotation has suffered significant injuries this season, and neither Hunter Greene nor Nick Lodolo are expected to return until at least August.

But starting pitching isn't the only upgrade the Reds need before the trade deadline. Every contending team could use another top end reliever for the stretch run. Cincinnati will undoubtedly look to add a relief pitcher or two before August 1st.

The MLB trade deadline is sure to be filled with intrigue and excitement. Some names to watch at the deadline will be Max Scherzer, Tim Anderson, and even Shohei Ohtani. While none of those names are likely to find their way to Cincinnati, the Reds front office will certainly be busy over the next couple of weeks.