Bob Nightengale (USA Today) is reporting the Reds are in discussion with Cleveland about Todd Frazier.
The #Indians and #Reds are in discussions about 3B Todd Frazier
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 9, 2015
We’ve seen several discussions of possible trade fits between the two clubs for the Reds 3B. Joe Sheehan makes the case that Frazier could be a fit in exchange for pitching, which Cleveland has in abundance.
Urshela can go back as a second piece in any deal; he’s a glove man who, at 24, might become an average-minus hitter and at least replaces Frazier’s defense in the short term. Pitching-rich Cleveland will have to be willing to deal a southpaw prospect like Rob Kaminsky or Justus Sheffield to get a trade done, however. The Reds could get bold and ask for Trevor Bauer, who showed positive signs last year but still was just a below-average starter. He’s the clear #4 for Cleveland, who have enough depth to move Bauer if it means making a four-win upgrade and not adding much to the payroll.
I haven’t had time yet to look at Cleveland’s prospects list, but the Reds should get a decent return for Super Todd. I hope the Reds mention he won the Home Run Derby.
Also reports of discussions between Reds and the Chicago White Sox.
Source: Reds have asked White Sox for No. 1 prospect Tin Anderson in talks regarding Todd Frazier. Seems an unlikely match. #Reds WhiteSox
— Phil Rogers (@philgrogers) December 9, 2015
Update: Mark Sheldon has source saying the Reds and Cleveland having a hard time matching up.
Source is telling me a deal between #reds and #indians for Frazier is unlikely. Not finding a match there.
— Mark Sheldon (@m_sheldon) December 9, 2015