Reds are setting fans up for another frustrating trade deadline letdown

Long accustomed to letdown trade deadlines, the Cincinnati Reds could be nearing another string of deadline deals that fans are dreading. The Reds have been hovering around the .500 mark all season long. Littered with injuries, mediocre season-long performances and question marks in the bullpen, multiple acquisitions are necessary to build a real contender.

Despite the glaring need in the bullpen, and depth specifically, Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall has no intention of making a splash yet. "It’s been really good to get our own players back and let’s see where we’re at once those guys are back and where we go," Krall told MLB.com's Mark Sheldon earlier this month.

Who was in right field?!

While players like Austin Hays, Noelvi Marte, and multiple bullpen pieces have spent ample time on the injured list thus far, Krall is hesitant to pull the trigger, despite glaring needs. The first game back from the All-Star break proved that acquiring depth is a necessity when Terry Francona started Santiago Espinal in right field against the New York Mets.

This move was countered by a mid-game defensive replacement named Connor Joe. Joe made a crucial 9th-inning error that cost the Reds two runs and eventually brought the tying run to the plate. While Jake Fraley is back from injury, this clear lack of depth is inexcusable, especially in the outfield.

These needs may seem obvious to fans, but Krall hasn't given anyone much confidence he'll make the necessary moves to propel the Reds into real contenders, which has certainly frustrated fans. The previous two seasons, he's demonstrated his game plan amidst borderline playoff seasons, and fans won't like it.

In 2023, while Matt McLain and Elly De La Cruz were skyrocketing to stardom within mere weeks of their major league debuts, the Reds made zero improvements to the roster. At that deadline, the Reds were ten games over .500 and mistakenly relied on continued success from young rookies, which fizzled out.

Last season, hovering above .500 didn't inspire confidence in Krall, who elected to sell off expiring pieces and received next-to-nothing in return. This season is similar to the previous two: a streaky team with promise, unable to propel themselves forward without aid. Unfortunately, Reds fans are all too familiar with this deadline approach, and certainly aren't thrilled by it.

Despite series victories over World Series hopeful teams, the Tigers, Yankees, and Padres, it doesn't appear Krall is confident enough in the 2025 Reds to make vast improvements. While a trade or two for bullpen help would certainly aid the ballclub, fans know more is required to improve the team. Unfortunately, it appears fans will be let down at the deadline once again by small, insignificant moves that never provide the necessary help.