Reds' interest in Carlos Estévez could be precursor to another offseason trade

What's next for Cincinnati Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall this offseason? He's kept busy by adding new players and coaches to Cincinnati all winter, and with spring training about a month away, he doesn't appear to be done just yet.

Reds closer Alexis Díaz recently agreed to terms to avoid arbitration, but the right-handed reliever was linked to being a potential trade option as a means to build up other areas of the roster. The Reds' latest interest on the free agent market might actually push a Díaz trade to its surface.

The Reds have check in on 2023 All-Star reliever Carlos Estévez, who came off another dominant season as a trade rental with the Philadelphia Phillies. He muscled a 2.45 ERA and 0.909 WHIP in 55 innings with the Phillies and Los Angeles Angels, striking out 50 batters. Estévez's velocity, matched with his fantastic walk rate, understandably has drawn interest from a few organizations.

Reds' interest in Carlos Estévez could be precursor to Alexis Dìaz trade

If Estévez were to sign with the Reds, then it's likely for Díaz to be the main trade chip to bolster the team's outfield. Estévez would then become the ideal closer in Cincinnati after registering 57 saves in the last two seasons. The Reds also have some high-leverage relievers waiting in the wings in the form of Zach Maxwell and Luis Mey.

Díaz, who also went to the All-Star Game in 2023, struggled this past season. He handed in a 3.99 ERA with a 1.296 WHIP in 56⅓ innings, which are underwhelming numbers compared to those that Estévez posted last season.

The one advantage that Díaz has over Estévez, though is his age and cost control. But while the Reds have Díaz under team control through 2027, if he were to seek a long-term deal, it likely would be much more lucrative than what Estévez will receive before the 2025 season begins.

The Reds can use Díaz's youth in their favor, however, and spin a trade that will land them a decent hitter in exchange their closer. Furthermore, it would make sense for the Reds to sign Estévez to a two or three-year deal while he is still a dominant pitcher. Signing Estévez and trading Díaz makes a lot of sense, but we'll see if Krall will bite.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors