REPORT :1 trade Cincinnati Reds must make during offseason…
**Trade the Cincinnati Reds Must Make During the Offseason: Acquiring a Starting Pitcher**
As the Cincinnati Reds look ahead to the 2024 MLB season, they find themselves in an interesting position. The team showed flashes of promise in 2023, particularly with their young core of position players like Elly De La Cruz, Jonathan India, and Tyler Stephenson, alongside a promising bullpen anchored by Alexis Díaz. However, one glaring weakness for the Reds was their starting pitching, which ultimately held back their ability to contend for a playoff spot.
If the Reds are serious about competing in the National League Central and beyond, they will need to shore up their rotation. With that in mind, acquiring a top-tier starting pitcher should be the club’s top priority during the offseason. Given the current state of the free-agent market and trade landscape, a strategic move to acquire a proven starter would provide immediate stability to their rotation, making them a much more formidable team in 2024.
### Why the Reds Need a Starting Pitcher
In 2023, the Reds’ starting rotation was a mix of unproven young arms and veterans who struggled with consistency. While the Reds have some promising prospects on the horizon, such as Andrew Abbott and Hunter Greene, they need at least one experienced arm to stabilize the rotation. Greene and Nick Lodolo showed flashes of brilliance, but both pitchers also faced significant injuries, and it remains uncertain if they can stay healthy over a full season. The lack of a consistent and reliable ace or No. 2 starter cost the Reds dearly in 2023, as their starting staff ranked in the bottom half of the league in ERA and innings pitched.
By acquiring a reliable starting pitcher during the offseason, the Reds would have the opportunity to solidify their rotation and allow their young stars to develop without the added pressure of having to carry the team on their own. A veteran starter can also provide leadership and guidance to the younger pitchers, helping them refine their skills and stay healthy.
### Potential Trade Targets
1. **Lucas Giolito (Los Angeles Angels)**
Giolito is one of the more intriguing options on the market. A former All-Star, the 29-year-old right-hander has the potential to be a No. 2 or No. 3 starter for the Reds. Although his 2023 season was inconsistent, Giolito still possesses the tools to be an effective pitcher. His strikeout ability and command could make him a strong fit for the Reds, who need someone capable of consistently getting outs and eating innings. The Reds should target Giolito for a trade if the Angels are willing to part with him, especially since he is a free agent after the 2024 season, making him a short-term but impactful addition.
2. **Pablo López (Minnesota Twins)**
Another viable option is Pablo López, who has been a steady performer for the Twins. López posted a solid 3.66 ERA in 2023 with a strong strikeout rate and good control. He’s a reliable innings eater and could slot into the No. 2 or No. 3 spot in the Reds’ rotation. The Twins could look to move López as part of a larger roster reshaping, and the Reds could offer some high-ceiling prospects to sweeten the deal. López would bring stability and experience to the rotation while complementing the Reds’ young pitchers.
3. **Aaron Nola (Philadelphia Phillies)**
While acquiring a top-tier pitcher like Aaron Nola would require a more aggressive approach and potentially a larger trade package, it’s worth considering. Nola is one of the most durable and reliable pitchers in the game, with a track record of consistent performance. A move like this would make a huge statement about the Reds’ commitment to contention. However, Nola is set to be a free agent after 2024, so it may be a long-shot, but a trade could be explored if the Phillies are willing to move him for the right offer.
### What the Reds Should Offer
The Reds have a wealth of young talent in their farm system, and this could be key in acquiring a top starting pitcher. Players like Noelvi Marte, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and other highly regarded prospects could be part of the trade package. Given that the Reds are in a win-now mode and need pitching help, parting with a top prospect might be necessary. However, they should still be mindful of the long-term picture and avoid overextending in trade talks.
### Conclusion
If the Cincinnati Reds are serious about making a push for the postseason in 2024, adding a reliable starting pitcher should be their top priority during the offseason. By acquiring someone like Lucas Giolito, Pablo López, or even pursuing a star like Aaron Nola, the Reds would bolster their rotation, improve their overall pitching depth, and take a big step toward competing for a playoff spot. The time is now for the Reds to make a move, and a strategic trade for a starting pitcher could be the key to unlocking their potential for 2024 and beyond.
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