As the MLB trade deadline draws near, the Cincinnati Reds find themselves well-positioned to make strategic moves—if they’re willing to seize the opportunity. While attention largely remains on the top names in trade discussions, the Reds would be wise to keep a close eye on the Los Angeles Angels.
Currently sitting fourth in the AL West and hovering just below .500, the Angels appear to be heading toward a much-needed rebuild. If they decide to sell, Cincinnati could target a pair of players who would provide meaningful upgrades.
Two key Angels Stars, outfielder Taylor Ward and left-handed reliever Reid Detmers. Both players will offer immediate contributions and give the Reds added roster flexibility in their push for a Wild Card spot.
Taylor Ward has quietly put together a strong 2025 campaign, slashing .231 with 23 home runs, 76 RBIs, and a .793 OPS in 381 at-bats. His OPS+ of 115 shows he’s performing 15 percent above league average. Although his .305 OBP is modest, Ward’s ability to drive in runs and deliver power in clutch moments has made him a difference-maker.
In May, Ward exploded with a .407 batting average and a 1.382 OPS over a red-hot week that earned him AL Player of the Week honors. Advanced metrics support the breakout: a .337 wOBA, .336 xwOBA, 14% barrel rate, and a 90.3 mph average exit velocity all signal sustainable production.
Meanwhile, Reid Detmers—a former first-round pick—has successfully transitioned into a high-octane bullpen role in 2025. He’s made 42 relief appearances, throwing 45⅓ innings with 55 strikeouts and a 4.17 ERA. His 10.9 K/9 and 3.24 FIP suggest he’s been better than the surface numbers show, likely hampered by defensive miscues or bad luck.
With a 28.5% strikeout rate and three years of team control, Detmers profiles as exactly the kind of impact reliever who could stabilize Cincinnati’s bullpen during the stretch run.
Other contenders, including the St. Louis Cardinals, have already shown interest in Detmers, appreciating both his swing-and-miss stuff and team-friendly contract. For the Reds, this could be a chance to make value-driven upgrades without having to overpay for marquee names.
If the Angels are serious about selling, Ward and Detmers represent realistic, cost-effective additions who could make a noticeable difference for a Cincinnati team eyeing a postseason return.