According to a report from Jon Paul Morosi of MLB Network, the Reds are now seen as the “clear frontrunner” to sign free-agent outfielder Nicholas Castellanos, with Morosi adding that the two sides have made progress in their negotiations over the past few days.
The Giants have also been in contact with Castellanos in recent weeks, per Morosi. The Rangers have also been strongly linked to the 27-year-old. And while Castellanos is decidedly the best slugger left on the market, it could very well be a three-team race for his services; when we explored the best fits for Castellanos last week, we also named the Indians, Cardinals, and Cubs as potential landing spots, but all of those teams have displayed a certain reluctance to splurge on free agents and seem unlikely to do so in this case.
Cincinnati is already looking at a pretty busy outfield mix—especially at the corners, where Castellanos would play—but none of the Reds’ existing pieces can quite match the offensive firepower that Castellanos would add to the lineup. Aristedes Aquino, Jesse Winker, and Phil Ervin are all likely to be deployed frequently in the outfield corners, with Shogo Akiyama and Nick Senzel representing options for the centerfield job.
If indeed the Reds wind up inking Castellanos, two of the aforementioned teams would be doubly hurt by missing out: the Cubs and Cardinals, of course, would have to turn around and deal with the division rival Reds several times every year.
MLBTR originally predicted that Castellanos would earn a four-year, $58MM deal in free agency. There’s still a chance he could reach those numbers, but the one-year, $18MM contract signed by Marcell Ozuna last week might reflect how the industry values Castellanos, whose profile and on-field value resembles that of Ozuna. Castellanos, though, is more than a year younger and doesn’t come with a qualifying offer attached, so signing teams won’t have to worry about surrendering draft pick compensation.
dynamite drop in monty
I remember the days when reports like these had merit, before reporters became mouthpieces for agents.
jr.white
and teams
Dbird777
Yeah, no lol. The national media tries their hardest not to say good things about us.
Big glove502
invis-align.
stymeedone
Since it became more important to be first, rather than be accurate.
dynamite drop in monty
Quite right.
deweybelongsinthehall
it could be true and mean nothing. considering until now no team reportedly had been in real or engaging duscussions, to me it simply means either a team has actually made an offer or more likely his asking price changed.
Les Chesterfield
Lolz. Over 95% of media outlets are owned by 4 different companies. Disney owns Fox News ABC and EPSN. So if you’re a kid, sports only guy liberal or conservative- your news comes from the magic kingdom.
Monty hasn’t came to terms that his favorite professional wrestler isn’t real yet bc he’s too emotionally attached.
PsychoTim
FYI–Disney does not own Fox News — that is part of Fox Corporation (due to the FCC rule prohibiting ownership of more than one major news network).
Les Chesterfield
All news is fake news. Entertainers playing their part
dynamite drop in monty
Ok, weirdo
MLBTRS
Not “weird” at all. You need to educate yourself on the current state of “news” presentation; after the sensationalist and entertainment aspect, it’s all about maximizing the benefit of whatever interest the so called “journalist” represents. It’s certainly not pervasive, but common enough to digest all of it with a healthy dose of cynicism.
dynamite drop in monty
Wow, I feel so educated now. Thank you kindly for pulling the wool from my eyes.
I’m not a dullard, I know fully well how American media has become glorified daytime trash television and that a percentage of their ranks are bereft of honor or journalistic integrity, but I’m sorry if I scott at such absolute and clearly programmed puke like “all news is fake news”.
But yeah, checks in the mail for the “education”, champ.
dynamite drop in monty
Scoff*
thelegendofmike
Well said
depressedtribefan
you’re so cool with your witty internet retorts
craigmiller13
Well said!!
Dad
Amen! And carefully selected!
Buck Jones
Have a lay down on the Chesterfield Les
Larry David's Joe Pepitone Jersey
Sports reporting has never been free of coverage like that, but blogs and social media have definitely magnified the impact it can have. I think MLBTR is usually pretty good about tempering or ignoring the most wild and unsubstantiated rumors, but lots of people see those claims without any context on Twitter and buy into them.
dynamite drop in monty
I agree.
RedFeather
Can’t wait to see this overpay..
RIP Mamba
PinstripedPride
Which you would’ve also said if the Cardinals were the ones getting him?
Manfredsajoke
Please someone sign this guy. Tired of hearing about it! Doesn’t some team need a good hitting terrible fielding player?
mistry gm
51 games with the Cubs and ZERO errors but the Cubs signed Steve Souza instead (a .233 lifetime hitter) because they can’t afford Castellanos. lol lol lol.
Cam
Can’t make errors on balls you don’t get to in the first place.
Heywally
Ex Cubs fan. NOT a terrible fielder, from watching his half Cub’s season, can run some and at prime age.
Doubles hitting machine with HR pop and very positive/enthusiastic clubhouse presence. What more do you want at this stage?
Would be a huge signing for the Reds to complete their off-season uptrend. Good luck.
spinach
I remember the good ole days when a rumor was a rumor instead of an incorrect fact.
dynamite drop in monty
“Incorrect fact” is somewhat of a contradiction.
reflect
Kinda like pop tart
Cam
It’s been like that for a long, long time.
juanpursuit
Totally doesn’t have merit.
delete
This move would make fourth place a lock and not a reach for the reds.
DVail1979
4th is already a lock .. Pittsburgh wont come close … this move could even help them knock the Cubs out of third
aaronw928
You guys are just talking nonsense. The Reds would be as good as any team in the division ON PAPER with this move.
RedFeather
On paper. Key word. Reds won’t win the division with this signing. Might flirt with a wildcard.
jdgoat
There’s not one team in that division that has a place locked up except for Pittsburgh. The other four could finish any spot one through four.
spudchukar
I am still somewhat baffled by the Reds assumed need for another outfielder. This move would give them 11 outfielders on their 40-man roster. They could drop one of course, but assuming Castellanos, Akayama and Senzel get the most playing time and even if they employ a platoon with Akayama, and Ervin or Aquino, that still leaves Winker and Schebler out of the picture, not to mention Janikowski, who they traded for and Van Meter. Somebody has to go, and as a Cards’fan knowing the Red Birds could use a left-handed corner outfielder for insurance, the Reds may provide one.
Brixton
if they really are making a run for it, odds are one or more of the better portion of that group could be traded for a SS or other complementary pieces, such as quality AAA rotation depth.
redlegs1961
even without this move
redlegs1961
the reds are near the top of the div
Dbird777
Schebler’s yours. Send us an offer.
cubsfanbudman1908
Cincinnati Reds… the Cleveland Browns of MLB.
Ejemp2006
Except the history of dominance and list of hall of famers. But yeah they are in the same state.
hiflew
Not really, the Reds have actually won championships in the past. I think the Padres are actually a better comp to the Browns. They always have big prospects/rookies that fail to pan out and make the playoffs about every 15 years or so.
BTW, it’s really weird that the 1 championship in 111 years have made Cubs fans so arrogant.
Jock2854
Typical Cubs or Cards fan, Cards were good but not adding & Cubs haven’t done much, Reds will shock a few fans this year, there’s no lock on who will win NLC & they know it, the pitching was good last year & now bats will b back!!
thelegendofmike
Nah – the reds will do very well next season.
ksoze
@cubsfan Hey, just think the Cubs may win a World Series again in 90 some odd years. Fear the Goat
sportsfreak52
Schebler has an option remaining and will probably start the year in Louisville.
sportsfreak52
VanMeter can also back up at 2nd base, so I wouldn’t say he’s strictly an outfielder.
djmac
I assume you are a Reds fan, ksoze? 5 championships in 151 seasons ain’t exactly rippin’ things up.
Schottzie
Almost all of those OF are average to below average. Castellanos is the only viable, proven bat between the 11 or whatever of them, with Senzel showing the most promise. You could have 25 OF for all that matters, the Reds want to win now, need offense, and still have a few spots open in the OF when you consider Castellanos would be the best bat among them.
kbarr888
I think they are planning to bring Senzel back into the infield and try to keep him healthy. The OF wasn’t very kind to him…..
Still……a player or two will have to be “reassigned” somehow. The logjam is huge
cubsfanbudman1908
Any baseball fan is well aware. My comment was regarding how teams look good on paper. They still have to prove it on the field. Let’s not crown them yet.
cubsfanbudman1908
And the Reds are 1/3 of the way there now.
Maurice Lock
How many Reds outfielders had 88 extra base hits and score 100 runs last year? That’s why they want Castellanos.
Dad
@hihlew the 1 championship in 111 years snack was great!
Ejemp2006
Pump the breaks, pitchers and catchers haven’t reported yet. No one has won or lost anything. The Reds improved on paper and deserve some kudos for spending on some exciting players.
sportsfreak52
Try consecutive 90 loss seasons and then see if you can “pump your brakes”, we’re real baseball fans and offseason signings is what it’s all about….regardless of who your team is.
sportsfreak52
A lock for 4th place?
You must be a jealous Brewers, Cubs or Cardinal fan, because the Reds needed, and have made, the best free agent signings in the Central Division!
Right or wrong, that comment is ridiculous with the moves the Reds have made, because the last I heard a high school baseball team was predicted to finish higher than the Pirates!
sportsfreak52
….and I’m not even a Reds fan!
sherlock_
He’s #7 on my top 10 RF ranking
excusemeflo
I’m sure this was brought up multiple times during negotiations
nowheredan
Heh heh heh….
wvredsfan
hope it’s true that the Reds sign Nicholas…
DarkSide830
but why
redmatt
Because they really don’t have anyone clearly better and can trade OF depth for a SS.
DarkSide830
sounds good in theory, but if it doesn’t happen theyll have a real OF jam.
joeshmoe11
you act like having too many quality players is a bad thing
dynamite drop in monty
It’s not that simple. It’s a question of most efficiently allocating your finite resources
Dbird777
We make an offer they can’t refuse *says in best Brando voice*
ksoze
It is when you could spend some of that wealth in other areas of need. If there was no area of need then yes, there is no problem
retire21
I never knew until today, it was Barzini all along.
udaman
Wow that’s a crowded outfield situation they have in Cincinnati
Les Chesterfield
Winker in L senzel in C and castellanos in R w Shogo as 4th OF. Aquino goes back to Louisville. Clear upgrade for reds. Hopefully not at a too steep of a price.
Reds are already the central favorite without this move. With castellanos NL favs ??
ReverieDays
Lmaooooo
Rich Hill’s Elbow
Someone’s getting traded.
Dbird777
Hopefully it’s Aquino lol. I don’t want to deal a guy like Winker with a career .845 OPS.
TradeBait
Who can’t hit LH pitching? He’s only justified platoon status to this point.
Oddman
Hey are you the tradebait from the old reds.com site?
Big Red Machine
Shogo 4th, Aquino back to AAA… You’re out of your mind. Senzel would go to short before that ever happened
ncaachampillini
Favorites in the entire League? Comical.
Favorites in the division? Laughable.
Favorites in Ohio? Possibly.
Gimme a break dude.
Brixton
I wouldn’t call him favorites, but I think they’re a better team than Chicago or the Brewers. St Louis is probably the best team there.
spudchukar
Good, maybe now fans will return to what was once an admirable organization.
ksoze
Who said win the league, he said the central. Also who would you put over them and why? You don’t have a clear favorite, so it’s all speculation at this point
Oddman
Keyser what’s up?
letmeclearmythroat74
Winker will be the 4th OF … or platoon with Aquino … Senzel will be dealt , Shogo is the CFer
Strike Four
LMAO!!!!
They’re like 20 games behind the Dodgers with Castellanos and his negative defense.
aaronw928
Good thing the Dodgers are in a different division. Acting like Cincy’s staff couldn’t hang in a seven game series with pretty much anyone is ridiculous. Their offense and losing close games was the issue last year.
Ahimsa
Reds lost 28 games last year by one run.
Mick1956
But in reality, losing, regardless of by what measure, is still losing. It doesn’t have an impact on next year, because nothing will play out the same. They could be better, could be worse, but there are infinite variables that play out during the season that will have an effect on every team’s performance.
RicoD
The stat of one run games is relevant though. It speaks to the fact that they are a better team than their record indicated. It then shows that with the additions made this offseason and the players other central teams lost, they are in the mix. On paper, but Reds fans should be optimistic.
mistry gm
Watch a game sometime, then comment. 51 games with the Cubs…..ZERO errors.
dynamite drop in monty
Dude do you get a royalty check anytime you cite this meaningless and arbitrary cherry picked tidbit?
stymeedone
I remember teams with Richie Zisk, Jim Rice and Greg Luzinski winning the WS. Last year’s numbers have Nick at below average, a rather large improvement over the previous year.
ElectricEddie
This would be interesting
I assumed he already had a deal with the Cubs
Pending the Bryant trade next week
Dbird777
That’s what we thought about JD and Atlanta
mistry gm
If the Cubs don’t sign him, Epstein will be run out of Chicago before the season starts, the Comcast deal will not happen because fans will write in and MANY lifetime Cubs fans will either start cheering for someone else or just go away.
#Epsteinmustgo will rule and the Rickets family will will become the jokes of Chicago. Cubs fans LOVE Castellanos. Come on Theo, do something right…..finally
Fred K. Burke
The Cubs can’t do anything due to the self imposed financial limits and desire to reset/get under the luxury tax. Cubs fan should all be aware of the narrative that’s been discussed since late October.
Gocubsgo1986
No one who actually knows baseball wants Castellanos back. An outfield of schwarber, heyward and Castellanos only benefits other teams.
mistry gm
Wow. you are an IDIOY.
dynamite drop in monty
Oof
mistry gm
Wow. you are a MORON
ABCD
Mistry, stop with the histrionics, please.
le r.
He’ll be awesome in that park.
martyfan
If the Reds do indeed sign Castellanos I would be shocked if that’s the last move they make.
While it seems improbable I wouldn’t be incredibly shocked if the Reds didn’t try to pull off some sort of high profile trade that wouldn’t only just upgrade their talent level at SS but perhaps even at Catcher!
I see a lot of comments in this thread about Cincinnati being the fourth place team this year in the National League Central, that is not going to happen they will either be first or second as it stands. If they add more talent to this team they are going to walk away with this division. Write it down!
Jock2854
Martyfan u are right, they are a different team, this signing might lead 2 another trade for a SS
throwinched10
Castellanos in RF; Winker/Aquino in LF; Senzel/Akiyama in CF…I guess that’s how it lines up?
roguesaw
Surely someone gets traded, of a young guy spends the year in AAA. Not giving a full season at bats to these guys isn’t good for their development. Better to be in AAA playing everyday than sitting on the bench three or four times a week.
spudchukar
Hard to believe Senzel would be reduced to playing only vs. lefties. Maybe he is the guy on the move?
throwinched10
I wonder if Winker could be a trade target for a team like Oakland.
timfoolery
Maybe with another player or two added, Oakland gives away one of their best, aging players in Semien, like they always do.
Cincyshawn
I would imagine trades… But if not i would say Castellanos in RF…Senzel and Akiyama in CF and Winker And Ervin in LF and Aquino as bat off bench..
Jock2854
I would say, Senzel in CF, Akiyama in RF, Castellanos in LF, & a trade in works
ksoze
4 man Rotation
LF Winker / CF Akiyama / RF Castellanos
LF Winker / CF Aquino / RF Castellanos
LF Winker / CF Aquino / RF Akiyama
RF Akiyama / Aquino / RF Castellanos
Senzel is traded or SS
Strike Four
That’s a terrible defensive OF. They won’t contend.
joeshmoe11
Because outfield defense is important in 2020?
dynamite drop in monty
Yes?
Gwynning
Shogo wondering why he signed in Cincy
knolln
If this isn’t the Rangers, I have no idea what kluber and Gibson were about. Nick is a bare minimum to field an average lineup (he upgrades at least 3 rangers positions however deployed) and hope for some steps forward into a crowded WC race. Otherwise kluber is just an old face to put on a new stadium.
Briffle2
They’re gunna sign Castellanos and they have Glavis at SS.
dynamite drop in monty
Are they gunna
The Oregonian
Does Senzel play short or do they send him out?
roguesaw
Is Senzel healthy? Maybe he starts his year rehabbing in their spring complex.
Goetta
Reason I don’t think Senzel moves to short is he is recovering from a tear in his labrum. He may not have all spring training to adjust to the position. Seems like a reach that he could just pick it up when he didn’t play there even in college.
spudchukar
Senzel does not have the skills needed to play SS. Second or third are best fits, but with Moose and Suarez, hard to see him getting playing time there. My guess is that this move would make him expendable, probably for a SS, maybe Lindor, but the Reds need more to make it happen, maybe Winkler and Ervin, or Aquino.
Strike Four
Nope, wrong: Nick Senzel can play every position except P and C, try again.
hiflew
Anybody can play every position. That doesn’t mean they can play them at a big league level though.
wvredsfan
Senzel played SS during spring training in 2018… and played it adequately
spudchukar
With Moose at second that is some defense up the middle. The Reds never considered him as a SS. Having an “adequate” SS is asking for trouble, especially if he already has shoulder issues.
doxiedevil
Good for Cincinnati, nice to see them spending the money to go get solid players, especially since they are not a big market team.
As a Brave fan I hope the Reds win the Central.
Gocubsgo1986
As a cubs fan, I hope they fleece the Braves for Bryant. It’d be nice to be on the other side of a trade fleece again.
Mrtwotone
Not gonna happen buddy. Enjoy Jason Heyward though
mistry gm
In 51 gamed with the Cubs Castellanos had ZERO errors. Schwarber and golden glover Heyward each had six and I would take either of them over Bryant.
dynamite drop in monty
You love repeating this point. You’re a glutton for punishment, each time you get bombarded with reasons that take is putrid.
caldo19
Rangers will still sign Castellanos. The Reds don’t need him. This just drives his price up.
Cincyshawn
Considering Rangers GM said last night they have gone as far as they will with him i would say if reds went above Rangers he will be in Cincy
Les Chesterfield
Rangers are off him. He’s going to cincy bc no one is gonna pay him big money
RicoD
Would be funny if boras got him the same deal as moustakas
CardsFan77
Lol…. Reds fans are amazing… Yes, they are working on building a good core but they arent there yet. Yes, they will beat out Pittsburg and maybe even make it into 3rd place in the Central… But Castellanos?????? Seriously probably should have kept Puig…. Better defense for sure. There is NO WAY the Reds are NL favorites with Nick…. Besides, Cards will trade for Arenado before the deadline and put all the silly hopes and dreams of other teams in the Central to bed and let them dream of 2021….
CardsFan77
Lol…. Reds fans are amazing… Yes, they are working on building a good core but they arent there yet. Yes, they will beat out Pittsburg and maybe even make it into 3rd place in the Central… But Castellanos?????? Seriously probably should have kept Puig…. Better defense for sure. There is NO WAY the Reds are NL favorites with Nick…. Besides, Cards will trade for Arenado before the deadline and put all the silly hopes and dreams of other teams in the Central to bed and let them dream of 2021….
Goetta
Making such a strong blowhard point you had to say it twice?
rememberthecoop
Cards fans are so awful. Obviously not all – each fanbase has its good and bad – but having gone to St. Louis wearing Cubs garb, just walking down the street I almost got into multiple fights. Meanwhile, you can walk downtown Chicago with any team’s gear and nothing is said. Well, maybe the Packers LOL. I know Cubs fans can be idiots at times too, but I still have a bad taste in my mouth from interactions with Cards fans. They are the worst.
sportsfreak52
Nolan Arenado isn’t going to the Cards!
They didn’t even want to spend money to re-sign Ozuna, let alone add a fortune to their payroll to get Arenado, even the Rockies GM said that.
Let us know how it is for Cards fans to look up at the Reds for a year or two.
mistry gm
lol lol lol lol lol.
Moneyballer
Now this is a strong point – is going from Puig to Castellanos an upgrade? I don’t know about that. Puig can hit more bombs in a heartbeat, Castellanos has him beat on doubles and batting average, Puig wins by a mile on defense, Castellanos has better plate discipline – personally I’d rather have Castellanos but overall it may not represent an upgrade here. Puig is a clubhouse cancer but there is talent there.
earmbrister
Puig was a good teammate and hustled his butt off in Cincy. Those reports largely emanated from one idiot LA sports reporter with an axe to grind.
Schottzie
You were good until everything after “Reds fans are amazing…”
Schottzie.
Lonesome
Well if it is true would love to see it happen as far as a log jam in the outfield not so lets talk cold hard facts winker can hit but his defense is a risk and he can’t stay healthy senzel he game but he can’t stay healthy the punisher has realy never been a serious prospect in the mirrors he needs more time in aaa the rest don’t matter senzel and winker a platoon
Ahimsa
Card fans nervous. lol
CardsFan77
Ya Vlad… Scared senseless…. 2nd most winning franchise in baseball history, baseball tradition and royalty that is absolutely timeless, a team that chose to be cpmpetitive year after year rather than tank and rebuild regardless of the number they get in a draft… A team that hasnt been sub 500 for how long???? But ya, were scared of the Reds signing little Nicky and his wooden bat… We will just hott the ball to him every time, should be good for at least a double… Lol cant wait
PinstripedPride
He’s such a good fit for that organization. He will rake in that hitters park and smaller amount pf grass to cover means he hopefully will catch more of the plays he should be making
pic369
If they get Castellanos they’ll move Senzel to SS or trade him for someone who can play that position. Opening day OF consists of Akiyama in center and Castellanos and Aquino/Winker manning the corners. Infield of Suarez, Senzel, Moustakas, and Votto doesn’t sound terrible either.
Caleb Clark
4yr/$75M-95? or maybe more? After this, the Reds need to move Jankowski, Schebler, Ervin, or even Winker. Maybe they could get Story or Lindor moving these guys. It is possible, believe me. The Reds will do some crazy things sometimes…
nreeves1268
Sorry to go off topic, but damn, RIP Kobe Bryant.
Gwynning
I’m starting to hate choppers… RIP Kobe Bean
dynamite drop in monty
Mr Bean died????
RicoD
You write garbage all over this site and now you can’t even contain yourself after Kobe dies. You truly are a piece of garbage.
dynamite drop in monty
I love you too man.
Mrtwotone
Dude was a rapist. Stop acting like it was a saint who died
weaselpuppy
To be fair, the first six inches were consensual….
Lonesome
Castellanos could be a important factor in the lineup we can put him in the number 3 hole he has a history of high av a little pop with 27 hrs last yr he can rake we have a legitimate lead off hitter and the middle of the lineup is stacked with power and starting pitching lol yes you can feel the fear from cardinals fans not to mention the cubs or brewers fans
Jock2854
Lonesome u r so right,lol
IjustloveBaseball
Would Castellanos be a boost to the line-up? Certainly. But the Reds have so much OF depth at this point it’d seems like unnecessary excess. I get adding the best players you can, but roster configuration is still something to consider and CIN already made a curious move in adding Moose to play 2b.
And again, While Nick C would add some thump to the line-up, he’s more a very-good hitter rather than a bonafide great hitter.
TradeBait
lol. Everybody loves Moose that has any baseball sense and he has experience at 2B – said he really looked forward to it. Do you not think the Reds FO has a plan for who they trade in the OF to get a SS or more pitching?
Mick1956
TradeBait – just out of curiosity, who do you see them trading for? Merely curiosity, nothing more.
Oddman
What’s up TB?
dewssox79
reds are going to be good
dynamite drop in monty
Soda Popinski is the eighth opponent in “Mike Tyson’s Punch-Out!!” To beat him, observe his movements carefully. Soda relies heavily on his left hook and uppercut. Dodge out of the way of the left hook, then throw jabs to the face. When he crouches to throw an uppercut, hold down on the D-pad. He will hesitate for a moment; with excellent timing, you can throw a body blow to get a star. Otherwise, sidestep the uppercut and jab him in the face. When Soda does his Drunken Dance combo — a series of rapid jabs — you can dodge the first punch and jab at his face to stun him.
chicagofan1978
I always hated him
Moneyballer
reds are not going to be good. (You left out a word.)
earmbrister
As Tony the Tiger would say …
“They’re GREAT”
Strike Four
Mark Payton, R5 guy, goes back to Oakland then?
DarkSide830
i think he has to be an extreme longshot at this point
pinballwizard1969
Jon Paul Morosi is one of the more reliable media reporters. You can pretty much trust what he reports in my opinion.
hiflew
Is this opposite day?
dynamite drop in monty
Jon …. is that you?
8
dum
Bhall42
Story would be the guy to trade for.
seamaholic 2
This. Senzel and one of the pitching prospects would be a win-win for both sides. Rox best prospect is a MLB ready SS, so they can afford the loss.
hiflew
As a Rockies fan, if Story is traded, the Reds are one of the few NL teams I would be happy with him going to. The return would be adequate and I don’t really dislike Cincinnati or their fans (except one loudmouth in Section 111 in GABP, but that’s another story).
Senzel would obviously be a great get, but part of me really wants to see Aquino hit bombs in Coors. But I would be okay with a Senzel, Tyler Mahle, 1 more low level prospect type deal. Don’t get me wrong, I would prefer to keep Story, but if he HAS to be dealt, this would be a good one.
Goetta
Takes a lot more than Senzel, Mahle and a low level prospect to get Story. I’d say add Winker and one of their 2-5 prospects to that package… then Colorado starts the conversation.
Goetta
Interesting if it materializes. Worried about their defense but their lineup is potentially lethal with this add.
Shogo
Votto
Suarez
Moose
Castellanos
Senzel
Galvis
Barnhart
P
Moneyballer
It’s not that great. I can name around 8 american league lineups that are far more potent and I would rank their lineup 3rd IN THEIR OWN DIVISION! Lets pump the brakes on the reds.
ekrog
AL lineups have a DH, so yeah.
earmbrister
Riiiiight. While the Cubs are clipping coupons and the cards are sitting on their hands, the Reds have laid claim to the NLC title.
progers2622
If you can upgrade at a position you do it. The amount of 1-2 run games the reds had last year and if they think in adding the players they have and might be targeting gets the offense to flip the losses to wins you do it. Log jams work out. Just like it did for the Yanks last year.
seamaholic 2
Not sure it is an upgrade. He did 1.5 bWAR last year. I don’t think you understand how awful he is on D. Possibly the worst defensive player in the major leagues. Just a weird fit because there is no DH and 1B is occupied.
phillyballers
1.2 with Detroit and and 1.5 with Chicago = 2.7 bWAR.
MLBTRS
He won’t grade out that badly in Cinci. Unlike the GABP, Comerica has a vast expanse out there with no one to consistently cover for him in center.
Armaments216
Nick Castellanos and Jesse Winker playing defense together in the same outfield. Ouch.
rememberthecoop
Hey, Schwarber and Castellanos played together and the earth didn’t shatter, so it is possible.
Moneyballer
It kind of did and the cubs arent even trying to bring him back. If castellanos isn’t hitting the cover off the ball for a long extended period of time he becomes a replacement level player.
RicoD
I think those are 2 bad takes:
Cubs clearly have no payroll space and Theo publicly stated he’d love to have him back and that both sides know it’s not that easy
You can take that second sentence and insert most player’s names. There seems to be reasonable doubt he will be a good hitter for the foreseeable future though.
Moneyballer
Cubs will say all day that they want him back but they aren’t trying to actually make it happen. A lot of teams have payroll issues but if they really valued him, they could move other contracts and find room to sign him, the urgency just isn’t there. Living in Chicago, I can tell you that they aren’t even talking about him, at all.
I disagree when you say insert any player and that statement is true. Other players bring more to the table than just streaky hitting. You must not value defense. Only players with very poor defense can be included because if you take away their top of the lineup bat and they become an average hitter, having no defense to back that up will vastly diminish their value to almost nothing. Before the Tigers traded him, Castellanos was NOT having a great season. He had 2 hot months with the cubbies last year, that’s it. What will the reds do if he is the 2019 Tigers version next year? Scary thought.
Taximan
He’s a good hitter. I guess you value Heywards defense. Runs win games. The amount of defensive runs Heyward saves pales In comparison to the amount of offense NC gives. The guy is an extra base machine. Heyward is at most times an automatic out. Probably the worst contract in baseball. NC was not the worst fielder in right. That honor went to Martinez formerly of the Cards. Eloy was worst outfielder in American League. By the way Schwarber grades out as an average outfielder with a high assist number. Rated the 8th best LF in baseball. Worst case NC hits 280 with 20 hr and 40 2 baggers. Heyward can only dream of numbers like these
RicoD
Moneyballer, fair points. From the cubs perspective you reference their lack of urgency but their urgency means nothing if they are in limbo with the Bryant case. They made it clear they weren’t going over the luxury tax and they were outbid for Eric Sogard, they clearly couldn’t outbid anyone for Castellanos. By those standards they aren’t “interested” in anyone because they haven’t made attempts to really improve their club.
In regards to streaky hitting, it is actually the opposite. An article on fangraphs, who crushes his defense, had this take on his hitting:
What makes Castellanos unusual is the lack of months below a 90 wRC+. His hot months line up pretty well with his peers and his 172 wRC+ this past month is the best month of his career, although not significantly different from four other really good months. Castellanos’ standard deviation in the table above is so much lower than most of his peers because he doesn’t have those wild swings. He spends a lot of time as an average hitter and a little bit of time as a really good hitter, but barely any time as a bad hitter, but going from average to great a few times a year might create the sense of a huge change in production. Castellanos is unusual in that respect.
blogs.fangraphs.com/right-place-right-time-for-nic…
In reference to defense. Maddon came out publicly and said a lot of improvement was made just but making positioning adjustments and the ballpark change. Between additional experience and comfort in RF and the other 2 items mentioned above, there was a big improvement in DEF. Time will tell whether this is as good as it gets or more progress will happen.
Le Grande Orangerie
Reds clear frontrunners in one-team race.
Moneyballer
Bidding war between Cincinnati and the Reds!
DarkSide830
“Lindor when?”
Mick1956
Okay, he’s not a bad pickup for the Reds. He’s a good fit for them, imho.
Either way, I think he’s going to end up with John Heyman’s Mystery Team!
shortytallz
plot twist: reds win division in 2o2o
Moneyballer
I think not.
The Human Rain Delay
This is a crazy trade that would never happen but as a Dodger fan id trade them Seager for Rasiel Iglesias and Amir Garrette and one 10-15 prospect range-
Couple notes before I get ripped-
* I am prolly lower on Seager than most- Dodger fans who thought Seager was “close” to Lindor earlier this year are insane – I also think Dodgers FO is lower on Seager than the industry oddly-
** I love me some 4 years of Amir…. think this guys gonna be a stud- Dodgers immediately probably add the best 2 pen arms on the whole team, their only weakness that they can never get right
** Dodgers Fo dont have the stones to do this obv
I dont even think Cincy could do this to their own pen tbh and have to be weary of dealing w/ Lad but its kinda a fascinating idea
sportsfreak52
Take Iglesias and Garrett out of the bullpen the Reds would destroy their bullpen with no other established closer and set up man.
The best the Reds will trade for a shortstop will be a couple outfielders and one or two prospects.
Melchez
But.. but… but… castellanos is unplayable in the field…. at least that’s the story mlbtr’s tells us.
detroitfan69
He will sign back with Detroit on Wednesday
theoldviolin
If the Reds do sign him, I can see them working some kind of deal with the Rangers for Andrus. Maybe something like Aquino Ervin and Galvis for Andrus. That clears out some the jam in OF for the Reds, gives them an upgrade (albeit not Lindor upgrade) at ss, and gives the Rangers 2 mlb ready OF
Armaments216
Not sure the Reds would give up Aquino (who can still be optioned) to take on Andrus’ salary. Maybe instead of Aquino, Travis Jankowski and one or two of their extra pitchers (Sims, Romano) and/or a midrange prospect.
Goetta
It would take more than a player dump to gain Andrus. But the Reds would also have to see him as a clear upgrade to Galvis to give up players to gain Andrus. I see him as an upgrade but not at the cost of giving up meaningful players to gain him.
sportsfreak52
I see a trade involving some Reds outfielders and maybe a prospect or two for a shortstop if they sign Castellanos.
stymeedone
What SS is available for trade? Cleveland is not moving Lindor because they plan on contending. Colorado just got cost certainty by signing Story, so he’s not going anywhere. Seager was only brought up in a trade for Lindor. He’s not moving. Galvis is the best they will get.
Les Chesterfield
Meh. How’s Cleveland ever going to get anything better than senzel for lindor ? Pretty sure it’s reds not willing to trade and not Cleveland.
Also Cleveland’s window is shut. It was a great run but too many teams on come up in weak AL central
hockeyjohn
Les, You continue to show lack of knowledge. Cleveland won 93 games last year and has the best pitching in the AL Central. Their window is not closed. Perhaps your windows are all fogged up.
Also – It will take more than Senzel to get Lindor so you are wrong there as well.
hyraxwithaflamethrower
As a White Sox fan, I wanted them to sign Castellanos. If the Reds land him, that division is going to be chaos outside of the Pirates. I’d still pick the Cardinals to win it, maybe Reds 2nd, then Brewers and Cubs, but they could all end within 7 games of each other.
rememberthecoop
If it weren’t for their payroll constraints, there is no doubt in my mind that Castellanos would be re-signed by the Cubs. He not only hit very well, but his personality and energy was much-needed in the clubhouse. And even if they end up trading Bryant and open up some payroll space, it will probably be too late in the offseason to make significant trades & signings as teams want to be prepared for the season by then. Meanwhile, speaking of Bryant, just what the hell is taking so long to make a decision on the grievance? No way should the Cubs lose; all they did was follow the CBA. If you don’t like the rule, change it, but to file a grievance is ridiculous. Yet the arbiter continues to hold the Cubs hostage. Makes no sense.
dematteo1982
I hope the Reds get him….i already feel that they can finish 2nd in the central…Castellanos can push them that much closer….wild card will be tough with 2 out of Atlanta, Mets, Nats and Phils moat likely locking down the wild card.
My early predictions have the Cardinals winning the central at 92-70
I have Cincy (86-76) finishing 2nd.
Cubs (83-79), Brewers (79-83) Pirates (71-91). Maybe if this signing happens they can gain a couple wins
sportsfreak52
A couple of either Winker, Janikowski, Aquino and/or Ervin might be on the move if they sign Castellanos….Schebler has options available and looks to be Louisville bound and VanMeter can back up at 2nd base.
redrealist
Schebs is out of options.
Moneyballer
In the voice of Al Pacino, OK!
Oddman
TradeBait, ksoze, send me a message.
joefriday1948
He will thrive with the Reds and forget his painful years with the Detroit Tigers who tried to cross train him as an emergency bus driver.
68tigers84
Painful years? Detroit surrounded Nick with Miggy in his prime, JD Martinez to learn from. Then they traded Nick & let him hit the market without a Qualifying offer. They treated him very well.
redrealist
I hope so. And thanks, by the way for Eugenio Suarez, who may have the most team-friendly contract in pro sports, and is among the best third basemans in the game. I wish Alfredo Simon could’ve helped you more ; )
holecamels35
Reds are a small market team, just like the Pirates. I’m so jealous of them as a Pirates fan, it must be so nice to have a front office that wants to win and spend money, yes not every move they make works out and it’s far from a guarantee, but good luck finding a weak spot in their lineup and rotation, and they got guys in the farm too.
redrealist
Nutting family are the worst owners in all of pro sports. Reds haven’t spent squat the past 5 years, either, so don’t be too envious.
burtgummer
You know the Cardinal Brewer and Cub fans are worried when they start trolling like this haha
pic369
Would be a good pickup
K R Stemen
If the Media names 3 or 4 more teams in their Rumor Mill, they will have covered about all 30 teams. With those odds they are very likely to be correct one one. They will be beaming with pride then! Much better than Politics.
68tigers84
Might have a new radio station. N I C K in Cincinnati.
Cam
Sucks to be a pitcher in CIN if this comes true – that outfield is going to be brutal on D.
redrealist
This move will make the Reds the favorite to win the NLC. They already have the best rotation in the division, if not all of MLB. They added Shogo and Moose to bolster the offense. And with Castellanos the offense will be stout. But the biggest move is yet to come. This signing clears the path for Senzel and Winkler to go to Cleveland for Lindor.
As that point, my beloved Reds become NL pennant favorites.
hockeyjohn
Senzel and Winker will not get you Lindor.
Stallion97
Also this: mlbtraderumors.com/2020/01/indians-francona-lindor…
That doesn’t necessarily mean it couldn’t happen, but my fellow Reds fans seem to be ignoring the fact that Cleveland sounds like they aren’t interested in trading Lindor at present.
redrealist
We’ll see. I think the Indians want more, but the Reds aren’t budging, and they’ll play Senzel at SS if the asking price for Lindor is too much. Keep in mind, Lindor has only 2 years left on his deal, and he’s expensive. Senzel and Winkler have about 6 years of team control, and will be bargains. When healthy, both will be studs at the dish and Senzel is versatile and has speed, too. Winker just a pure hitter, OBP guy. Trust me, Cleveland will do very well to get these 2 guys for Lindor.
hockeyjohn
Then you should plan on trying Senzel at shortstop. If the Reds continue to move him around – they will ruin him.
Winker is not a stud. He is a platoon outfielder that is poor defensively. While Senzel may become a stud, he is not anywhere near there yet and his health continues to be a concern. It will take an overpay to convince the Indians to pull the trigger and your offer will not convince them.
earmbrister
No way that the Reds should be trading TEN years of Senzel and Winker for two years of Lindor. Senzel is going to be great in centerfield (and needs to stay there) and Winker is in fact a stud. Neither one is facing a chronic medical issue, just stupid assorted injuries. I expect them both to be healthy this year and both will rake.
Stallion97
There have been a couple articles released with statements from Indians brass that Cleveland is not shopping Lindor. They plan for him to be their starting SS in 2020. Are people fantasizing about a trade at this point?
mrflimflam
Could the Reds work a deal with the Rays for Willy Adames? 4 of the Rays top 8 prospects are shortstops including Wander Franco, who is one of the top five prospects in baseball.
redrealist
No. Reds are in “win now” mode. Senzel at SS helps our chances of winning this year or next more than any Rays prospect.
68tigers84
Reunion with Eugenio Suárez, as he was Nicks teammate in 2014.
redrealist
Stallion97 …. Ever have a girlfriend play hard to get on you? That’s what the Indians are doing with Lindor, feigning lack of interest in dealing him. They probably want Senzel, Winker and Lodolo, to which the Reds are holding firm and saying they can have either Senzel and either Winker or Lodolo, which is the right move.
That Hockeyjohn dude is thinking it’s his father’s/grandpa’s game. Gone are the days when a top tier MLB player with only 2 years of team control is fetching 3 stud prospects. It’s all about value. Senzel and Winker will be bargains under team control for 5 years to come. Same with Lodolo. Their contracts will return greater ROI then Lindor, and that’s almost assured.
Reds are wise to hold onto both til they can sell high, or at least fair market value. It’s too bad each have had injuries, but hopefully they’re both healthy this year and prove to the Indians they missed out on 2 stud hitters.
hockeyjohn
That Redrealist dude needs to learn that in today’s baseball that defense is a important piece of a player’s value. Winker is a platoon player with limited defense value. He does not hold the value that Redrealist thinks that he does. Senzel is a player of interest, but his injury history will concern teams that have interest in him.
RedRealist also has to realize that Lindor is one of the best players in the game. Lindor is a fan favorite and is one of the faces of baseball. A player of that caliber does not come cheaply. Readrealist must also realize that the Indians do not have to trade him this year as they are a contender as well for 2020. Redrealist must realize that for a trade to be made, both teams’ needs and interests must be met.
redrealist
Stallion97 … If the Reds can get Lindor for Senzel and Winker I think they should do it. I’m not fantasizing about it, and in fact, will be sad in three years when Lindor walks, and Senzel is slashing .285/25/85/20 sb with his new team and Winker doing about the same with a little less power.
But truth is I’m sick of losing and 2012 seems like eons ago. The time is now. They either go all-in to try to win it, or they don’t. In today’s game, small-market teams rarely have the chance to have a stocked minor league system and a legit shot to win year after year. That’s what makes the Rays baseball’s top organization. And they do it in a lousy stadium with no fan base in a division that spends more than any other. It’s really sad they don’t get more love. I’m from St. Pete, Fl, too, but only go to games every 6 years when the Reds are in town!
redrealist
The ONLY reason Lindor hasn’t been dealt is because the Indians’ asking price is too high. The problem is that the longer they wait, the less Lindor is worth. This same time next year he will probably fetch a team’s top prospect and maybe a 15-20 prospect.
Again, baseball trades are more about the value of a player moreso than their production. Seems off, but that’s the financial aspect of the game.
hockeyjohn
Lindor has just as much 2020 value to the Indians as he would with the Reds. Both teams plan to be contenders. Remember the Indians won 93 games last season, one filled with many injuries. To convince Cleveland to move Lindor, any trade offer has to make the move worthwhile for 2020 and beyond. If a trade does not do that, the Indians would be foolish to make it and the Indians front office is not foolish. If no offer meets those conditions. the Indians keep Lindor for 2020 and evaluate again at the deadline or after the 2020 season. Yes, the return will be less, but the Indians would have the full value of Francisco Lindor for the 2020 season.
redrealist
Let me administer some Baseball Economics 101 for Hockeyjohn …
A player that hits .285/25/85 earning $2 million/year if more coveted by most MLB teams than a guy hitting .300/30/100 earning $18 million/year.
If you have TWO guys hitting .285/25/85 earning $2 million or so each, vs. the guy slashing .300/30/100, that’s even a bigger steal for the team getting solid production from 2 guys at a pittance.
Defense is overrated in baseball. Your grandpa taught you that you need to be solid up the middle. So did mine. Different game now. Contact hitters are players of yesteryear. Get on base or hit for power and you will have a spot in the lineup even if you can’t field a lick. Good defense is a bonus. A good bat will win you many, many more games than a good glove will. Trust me, ever hear of Billy Hamilton? Many Reds fans lauded his play and were quick to point out how he saves soooo many runs. That’s BS. Might not even be a ball hit to CF some games, and other plays may be routine. Anyway, BIlly is likely out of baseball this season! But I digress. Did you learn your lesson on Baseball Economics?
hockeyjohn
Sir, Don’t talk down to me. You come off like a pompous ass and a real jerk, Who died and made you the baseball guru? What qualifications do you have. Two people, like two teams, can hold different values on a player. Just because our OPINIONS don’t agree does not make you the expert. Perhaps you need a lesson on manners. and how to deal with others responsibly in the real world. Perhaps you should have listened more to your parents and grandparents. I am pretty sure that they would be disappointed with your rude and immature behavior.
redrealist
Says the guy who used the phrase “needs to realize” 3 times in a 200-word post, and “needs to learn” once. Jagoff.