Are the Cincinnati Reds building, and if they are building are they using the right materials?
The Reds have asked fans to be patient as they rebuild to construct a contender. They are close to completing their structure, but it’s hard to tell if the architects are happy with their floor plans or are they planning to make some structural changes.
As the end of July moves into the rear-view mirror, there are trade rumors swirling and some of them involve the Reds. One team in particular is Washington who has eyes on a Cincinnati prize.
The Nationals reportedly are interested in starting pitcher Matt Harvey and closer Raisel Iglesias.
The Reds picked up Harvey a couple of months ago from the New York Mets for catcher Devin Mesoraco. Harvey has pitched well and his stock has risen. With Harvey, Anthony DeSclafani, Sal Romano and Tyler Mahle, the starting rotation is finally taking shape.
One problem. Harvey is a free agent at the end of the season and there is no certainty that the Reds will try or even want to re-sign the righthander. If the Reds are serious about becoming contenders, then they should at least make an attempt.
After all, they gave Homer Bailey $10 million a year and we’ve all seen how that’s turned out so well.
Iglesias would have to command quite a talent (or talents) in return. Washington really has a good starting rotation so Harvey only seems like insurance. And why not? He’s probably only a rental as the Nationals brace for the free agent demands of Bryce Harper.
Other teams are reportedly interested in Reds’ players. The Yankees might like to have Harvey but the Reds have been burned too many times trading with Bronx Bombers. And Harvey probably doesn’t want to go back to New York.
The Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros want Iglesias. Boston really doesn’t have anything the Reds want. Houston has plenty of young talent to deal but they’d have to give up multiple players for Iglesias.
The Reds’ offense is set. The outfield has four players who rotate and they all have their strengths and their weaknesses. That might be an area the Reds would like to upgrade.
If Michael Lorenzen wasn’t such a big part of the bullpen or even a possible future fifth starter, he might be an outfield prospect. He was an outstanding outfielder and pitcher in college.
Trade rumors and talks will heat up in the next few weeks, but the Reds’ bottom line remains: Are you building for the near future or is it going to be like I-64 and just constantly be making repairs?
I’ve always been told it’s better to own than rent.
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Jim Walker is sports editor of The Ironton Tribune.