Cincinnati Reds Reportedly Ready To Be Sellers Ahead of MLB Trade Deadline

Matt Brown
Cincinnati Reds left fielder Austin Hays (12) hits a single during the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game one of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium

The Cincinnati Reds appear to have made their plans for the trade deadline clear.

According to The Athletic, the Reds have let other teams know they’re “open for business” as the Aug. 3 trade deadline approaches. While Cincinnati isn’t expected to completely tear down its roster, the organization is reportedly willing to move players on expiring contracts while keeping an eye on building a stronger team for 2027 and beyond.

The Standings Left The Cincinnati Reds With Few Options

At 44-52, Cincinnati has fallen well behind in both the National League Central and the Wild Card race.

While the expanded playoff format keeps more teams in contention longer, the Reds have simply dug themselves too large a hole. With the deadline rapidly approaching, shifting their focus toward the future is the logical decision.

Rather than chasing an unlikely postseason berth, Cincinnati can use the next two weeks to improve its long-term outlook.

Don’t Expect A Complete Fire Sale

Being “open for business” doesn’t necessarily mean every player is available.

According to the report, the Reds are primarily focused on moving players with expiring contracts while remaining interested in acquiring major league talent that can help beyond this season.

That’s an important distinction. This isn’t about starting over. It’s about repositioning the roster for future success.

Chase Burns Shows The Direction Of The Franchise

The organization’s recent commitment to Chase Burns reinforces that idea. By signing the young All-Star pitcher to a long-term extension, Cincinnati made it clear that it still believes its competitive window is ahead rather than behind.

Any moves made at the deadline will likely be centered around building a stronger supporting cast around Burns and the team’s young core.

Selling Now Could Pay Off Later

Trade deadlines often reward teams willing to be realistic about where they stand. Instead of holding onto expiring contracts and risking losing players for nothing, the Reds have an opportunity to add prospects or controllable major league talent that can contribute over the next several seasons.

It may disappoint fans hoping for a late playoff push, but it’s the kind of disciplined approach that successful organizations often take.

If Cincinnati can turn short-term assets into long-term contributors, this deadline could end up being an important step toward getting the franchise back into postseason contention.

Matt is one of the owners at Total Apex Media. He is an avid sports & pop culture fan who has been writing for various outlets over the past four years.