The Cincinnati Reds have something every team wants right now: starting pitching depth. And that kind of asset doesn’t stay under the radar for long.
With multiple clubs reportedly calling about the Reds’ arms, it’s clear the rest of the league sees what Cincinnati has built. But if anyone’s hoping to pry away a starter, they better be ready to pay up - big time.
According to reports, the Reds are listening to offers, but they’re not in any rush to make a move unless the return package makes them better both now and in the long run. That means no short-term rentals or prospect-only deals. Cincinnati’s front office is walking a tightrope - trying to stay competitive in 2026 while also keeping an eye on the future.
Now, while teams are definitely interested in the Reds’ rotation, not every arm is on the table. Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Andrew Abbott are reportedly off-limits - and that tracks.
Those three represent the core of what Cincinnati hopes will be a long-term pitching foundation. That leaves Brady Singer as the most likely trade candidate, and even that’s far from a guarantee.
Singer’s name has been circulating for much of the offseason, and it makes sense. He’s been one of the more reliable starters in the game over the last five years, logging 27 or more appearances in each of those seasons. Durability like that doesn’t grow on trees, especially in today’s game where pitching depth is constantly tested.
In 2025, Singer posted a 4.03 ERA with a 3.98 FIP and was worth 2.9 fWAR - solid production for a middle-of-the-rotation arm. He struck out nearly 23% of the batters he faced and showed a knack for limiting damage, even in the hitter-friendly Great American Ball Park.
In fact, he gave up fewer home runs last season than he did the year before, when he pitched in the more spacious Kauffman Stadium. That’s a testament to how he’s evolved as a pitcher - refining his command, mixing his pitches more effectively, and staying composed in tough environments.
But there’s another layer to this: money. Singer is set to make $12.75 million this season, which makes him the most expensive pitcher on the Reds’ staff.
With Cincinnati operating under a tight budget, there’s a financial incentive to explore a trade - especially if it helps them address other roster needs, like adding a bat to the lineup. That’s where things get interesting.
Any deal involving Singer would likely need to include a major-league-ready starter in return to keep the rotation intact. The Reds aren’t looking to create a hole just to fill another.
They’re trying to thread the needle - stay competitive while managing payroll and building for the future. It’s a tricky balance, but it’s clear the front office has a plan and isn’t going to be swayed by just any offer.
And make no mistake - there’s no shortage of teams looking to bolster their rotations right now. Pitching remains the most sought-after commodity in the league, and Singer’s combination of durability, effectiveness, and team control makes him a valuable trade chip. But so far, the Reds haven’t heard anything that’s moved the needle.
Unless a team comes in with an offer that checks every box - a quality starter, offensive help, and maybe even some financial relief - Brady Singer will likely be in Goodyear with the rest of the Reds’ staff when spring training rolls around. For now, Cincinnati is holding its cards close, and they’re not folding unless the pot is worth it.