The Cincinnati Reds were busy yesterday. They solidified the defense at third with the trade for Ke’Bryan Hayes with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Then, late yesterday, they were part of a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays. The Reds received a starter in their part of the trade yesterday. The Cincinnati Reds start a series with the Atlanta Braves today. They have a 57-52 record. The Reds are seven and a half games out in the NL Central. They are three games out from a wild-card spot.
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Zack Littell
Littell is a right-handed starter with 22 starts for the Rays this year and has a 8-8 record. He has a 3.58 ERA over 133 and one-third innings pitched this season. Littell has 89 strikeouts this season and a 1.12 WHIP. At a very low cost, the Reds received a reliable rotation option as they strengthened their pitching staff. The Reds sent left-handed pitcher Adam Serwinowski and right-handed pitcher Brian Van Belle in return to the Rays.
Summary
The Cincinnati Reds were able to bolster their rotation without giving up a top 30 prospect from their system. Zack Littell might not be as well-known as some other names at the MLB trade deadline. However, he has been pitching well for the Rays this season. His ability to keep his team in each outing with a 3.58 ERA provides the Reds with another arm in the rotation. Giving manager Terry Francona options.
He can slide into the rotation if Nick Martinez gets moved to the bullpen. A more likely option, albeit unpopular, is if Chase Burns gets sent back down to Triple-A. Regardless of the next move, you have to appreciate the ability to add to this team. They did so without giving up big pieces from the deep farm system. I like the addition of Littell. I will be interested to see what Thursday holds for the Reds at the deadline.
