“Reds on the Fence at Deadline—These 3 Players Might Be Gone Before They Know It

Reds Face Uncertain Direction Ahead of MLB Trade Deadline

With the MLB trade deadline fast approaching, the Cincinnati Reds find themselves caught in a gray area. While many fans and analysts expect them to be buyers, the possibility of the Reds becoming sellers remains very real.

Cincinnati has hovered around the .500 mark for most of the season. Though they’re still in the NL Wild Card race, the teams above them in the standings are expected to make aggressive moves. That could complicate the Reds’ path forward.

If the Reds can’t string together a winning streak soon, the front office might have to shift gears and explore selling at the deadline. If that happens, a few players who likely feel secure could suddenly find themselves on the trade block.

3 Reds Who May Not Be As Safe As They Think

Nick Martinez – RHP

Martinez has been floated in several reports as a possible trade candidate. While it might make sense to move him if the rotation were fully healthy, Cincinnati is currently dealing with injuries—Hunter Greene is on the IL, and rookie Chase Burns is on an innings limit. Trading Martinez under these conditions would be risky.

That said, if the Reds fall further out of contention and receive a strong offer, it wouldn’t be a shock to see Martinez dealt before the deadline.

Emilio Pagán – RHP

Pagán is in the final year of his two-year contract and has been effective as the team’s closer. But with young arms like Zach Maxwell, Tony Santillan, and Graham Ashcraft waiting in the wings, the Reds may be preparing to turn the page.

If Cincinnati slips out of the playoff picture, Pagán could be moved for a solid prospect return—an unmistakable sign that the team is pivoting toward 2026.

Tyler Stephenson – C

Trading Stephenson would be a clear indication that the Reds are waving the white flag on the current season. Still, there’s logic behind the idea. He’s entering the final year of arbitration in 2026, and extension talks haven’t led to a deal.

With José Trevino under contract through 2027 and top prospect Alfredo Duno on the rise, the Reds might decide to move Stephenson—especially since he’s an above-average hitter who could bring significant value to a contender in need of a catching upgrade.