Reds Use Zack Littell Trade to Quietly Strengthen Bullpen Depth
The Cincinnati Reds just made a sneaky-smart move that may not seem flashy at first glance, but it could pay major dividends down the stretch. Just hours before the MLB trade deadline, the Reds acquired right-handed starter Zack Littell from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for two minor-league pitchers—one of whom was their 10th-ranked prospect, Adam Serwinowski.
Now, you might be asking, “Wait, why are the Reds adding another starting pitcher when their rotation is already full?” And that’s exactly the interesting part. It turns out, this wasn’t just about the rotation. This move was more about bolstering the bullpen in a roundabout way. By sliding veteran swingman Nick Martinez from the starting five into a relief role, the Reds not only added a reliable new starter in Littell, but they also gave their bullpen a much-needed boost.
Also Read:- Sky Sports Confirms Boro TV Fixtures Through to New Year
- Poilievre’s Political Future Hangs on Unusual Alberta Byelection
Team president Nick Krall put it simply: “It’s the best of both worlds.” And honestly, that logic tracks. The bullpen market was tight and expensive, so instead of overpaying for a reliever, the Reds got creative. Littell—who has quietly posted a 3.58 ERA over 22 starts this season—is a control artist, ranking among MLB’s best in lowest walk rate. Yes, he’s given up more home runs than you'd like, but he keeps his team in games and eats innings.
This trade also lines up perfectly with where the Reds are at this moment. They’ve dealt with multiple pitching injuries—Hunter Greene is still working back from a groin strain, and Carson Spiers is done for the year with elbow surgery. Add that to rookie Chase Burns, who’s been phenomenal but is approaching his innings limit, and you start to see the urgency behind adding another proven arm.
Martinez, for his part, took the move in stride. Krall said Martinez was told after throwing six solid innings against the Dodgers that he’d be moving to the pen. And his response? Basically: “Whatever helps the team.” That kind of attitude is exactly what you want in a veteran.
So, even though Littell might be a short-term rental—his contract is up at the end of the season—the Reds managed to address two areas of need with one move. And while they’re still lurking a few games back in the Wild Card race, this deal shows they’re not just trying to stay afloat—they’re making a push.
If this ends up being the last move before the deadline, the Reds feel good about where they’ve landed. Their defense is stronger thanks to Ke’Bryan Hayes, the bullpen has been quietly reinforced, and they’ve done it without blowing up the farm system. It’s not the loudest strategy—but it might just be one of the smartest.
Read More:
0 Comments