If the Cincinnati Reds are going to make a move this offseason involving their starting rotation, there's a name that makes a lot more sense than the one most fans keep hearing about - and it’s not Hunter Greene.
Despite the chatter, the Reds have shown no real interest in dealing Greene, the electric right-hander who still feels like a foundational piece of their future. But if Cincinnati wants to get aggressive and flip a starter for value, Brady Singer is the more logical trade chip.
Here’s why: Singer is entering the final year of his contract and is projected to earn around $12 million in arbitration. That’s a manageable number for a pitcher who’s proven to be a durable innings-eater - and that’s exactly what he’s been over the past four seasons. He’s consistently logged between 150 and 180 innings each year, giving his club a reliable arm every fifth day.
Now, Singer’s not going to blow hitters away with velocity. His fastball - a 92.2 mph sinker - sits below league average in terms of heat.
But that’s not where his value lies. His real weapons are his slider and sweeper, both of which play up thanks to his low arm slot and long extension.
That unique delivery gives hitters a tough angle, and when he’s on, he can keep lineups off balance deep into games.
He might not have Greene’s flash or upside, but that’s not the point. Trading Singer now, while he still has value and a year of control, could be a savvy play - especially if the Reds are looking to build on the return they got in last winter’s Jonathan India deal.
Turning one win into another? That’s how smart front offices stack assets.
According to league insiders, including ESPN’s Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel, Singer’s odds of being moved sit at about 25% - so it’s far from a guarantee. But there’s clearly a market for a pitcher like him.
Teams like the Orioles, Rangers, Giants, Astros, Padres, and Rays have all been mentioned as potential fits. These are clubs with postseason aspirations and rotation needs - and Singer checks a lot of boxes for them.
Bottom line: If Cincinnati is looking to deal from its rotation, Singer is the logical choice. He’s affordable, reliable, and expendable in the right deal. Greene might grab headlines, but Singer could quietly be the key to the Reds making another smart move this winter.