The Cincinnati Reds' roster is set to undergo significant changes in the coming days, with a new face and some slight alterations expected when the team hosts the Athletics on August 4.
The Reds finalized deals ahead of the MLB trade deadline, sending hard-slugging Nathaniel Lowe to the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for two prospects and reliever Caleb Ferguson to the St. Louis Cardinals for international pool money.
The two prospects acquired for Lowe won't be at Great American Ball Park anytime soon, as they're being dispatched to stops within Cincinnati's minor league system. However, Lowe's departure will allow the 26-man roster to accommodate a new face in 22-year-old Hector Rodriguez.
Reds general manager Nick Krall said the club was calling up Rodriguez from Triple-A Louisville, and that Martinez would start against the Athletics. Rodriguez, ranked Cincinnati's No. 3 overall prospect by MLB Pipeline, was hitting .274 with the Louisville Bats this season, with 27 homers and an .881 OPS.
"He spent almost a full season in Triple-A from last year to this year," Krall said. "He's continued to take good at-bats. He's really done a great job of becoming more professional in his at-bats. He's still working to play the outfield, but we felt it was time to give him a shot."
Ferguson's departure will also allow Cincinnati's 26-man roster to accommodate one of the several pitchers working to return from injury. Tony Santillan (left oblique strain), Nick Lodolo (blister) and Brandon Williamson (left shoulder fatigue) are some of the Reds pitchers attempting returns.
The Reds' decision to be relatively quiet at the trade deadline may have raised some eyebrows, but it's clear that the team is prioritizing internal development and giving prospects like Rodriguez a chance to shine. With the team set to host the Athletics on August 4, fans will be eager to see how Rodriguez fits into the lineup.
As the Reds continue to navigate their roster, it's worth noting that the team's injury situation is a significant factor in their plans. With several key pitchers working to return from injury, the team's depth and flexibility will be put to the test in the coming weeks. The next few games will be crucial in determining the team's trajectory, and fans will be watching closely to see how it all unfolds.
Source: Yahoo Sports