The Cincinnati Reds, after a disappointing series sweep over the weekend, appear to be shifting their strategy from competing for a Wild Card spot to potentially offloading talent, positioning themselves as sellers as the trade deadline approaches. Key players with expiring contracts are likely to be available, presenting an opportunity for teams like the New York Mets to bolster their roster.

Among those potentially on the trading block from the Reds are Nick Martinez, Buck Farmer, Lucas Sims, and the injured left-hander Brent Suter. Each player offers a unique skill set that could benefit the Mets, especially as they look to strengthen their bullpen.

The Reds have made it known that they are in the market for a right-handed hitting outfielder. The Mets have a potential candidate in Alex Ramirez, a prospect whose early-season promise has since dimed, leaving his future with the team uncertain. Ramirez’s current batting line sits at .232/.315/.336 over 354 plate appearances, an improvement over last year, but still not back to his impressive 2022 stats.

At one time, Ramirez was seen as a potential future center fielder for the Mets, thanks to a stellar 2022 where he posted a .281/.346/.436 line with 11 homers and 21 stolen bases. However, following another underwhelming performance closely on the heels of last season’s sub-par results, and with new prospects entering the scene, his standing within the organization has diminished.

Ramirez is already on the 40-man roster, a move initially made to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft, and has burned through one of his minor league options this year. If his performance doesn’t improve, the Mets might be forced to use another option on him in 2025, an unappealing prospect if he hasn’t turned a corner.

With the trade deadline approaching and the Reds in need of outfield strength, a swap involving Ramirez could prove mutually beneficial. The Reds could provide the Mets with relief help through Farmer or Sims, both on expiring deals, or possibly Martinez or Suter, who have various options in their contracts. Martinez, in particular, could be a valuable addition to the Mets’ bullpen given his broader contract and strong performances.

For Ramirez, a change of scenery might provide a fresh start and an opportunity to reset his career trajectory. Meanwhile, the Mets would gain much-needed bullpen reinforcements for a postseason push. This scenario poses a clear advantage for both teams, converting a dwindling prospect’s waning value into immediate pitching help for the Mets, while offering the Reds potential future gain.