The Cincinnati Reds have been aggressive buyers ahead of the MLB trade deadline — but one of their top targets may now be off the board.
Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suárez was forced to exit Monday’s game against the Detroit Tigers after taking a 96 mph fastball from reliever Will Vest directly to his hand. He left the field with trainers, and D-backs manager Torey Lovullo later listed him as “day-to-day.”
The timing couldn’t be worse for Arizona, which had been actively shopping Suárez in hopes of maximizing his value before the deadline. The two-time All-Star had emerged as one of the most coveted bats available, drawing strong interest from the Reds, Tigers, Cubs, Brewers, Astros, and Mariners.
Suárez has been enjoying a standout season, one that had Arizona general manager Mike Hazen expecting a significant return in trade discussions — especially after already dealing key players like Josh Naylor.
But that plan could be in serious jeopardy if Suárez’s hand injury turns out to be more than a minor issue. This is the second time in July he’s been hit in the hand, with the first incident occurring during the All-Star Game.
Arizona is still awaiting X-ray results, and the hope is that Suárez will be available for Tuesday’s game. But for now, a deal involving the slugging third baseman remains on hold — and Cincinnati’s trade deadline strategy may need a quick adjustment.
If Suárez is ruled out or placed on the injured list, the Reds will likely shift focus away from their primary trade target.
Fortunately, Cincinnati has backup options. ESPN’s Buster Olney recently linked the team to Tampa Bay Rays slugger Yandy Díaz as a potential fit.
Additional names on the Reds’ radar include outfielders Ramón Laureano and Alex Call — both of whom are expected to be available ahead of the trade deadline.
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