After completing a sweep of the Tampa Bay Rays and climbing to six games above .500 for the first time this season, the Cincinnati Reds have made it clear—they’re entering buyer mode ahead of the MLB trade deadline. With the July 31 deadline just days away, President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall and GM Brad Meador are working against the clock to strengthen the roster for a playoff push.
The Reds aren’t expected to deal from their active roster, though a few players on the 40-man could be included in deadline deals. Instead, Cincinnati is likely to tap into its deep farm system in pursuit of reinforcements that can help secure their first full-season playoff berth since 2013.
So, which prospects might be on the move as the Reds look to capitalize on this opportunity?
4 Reds Prospects Who Could Be Dealt Before the Trade Deadline
4. Sammy Stafura – Infield Prospect
One name drawing attention is infielder Sammy Stafura. With fellow shortstop Tyson Lewis recently promoted to Single-A, Stafura has shifted to second base. A former second-round pick and current top-10 prospect per MLB Pipeline, Stafura offers strong value for rebuilding teams seeking young infield talent.
3. Adam Serwinowski – Left-Handed Pitcher
Lefty pitcher Adam Serwinowski is another potential trade chip. Though he’s experienced some growing pains this season, his potential remains high. Once a late-round draft pick, Serwinowski has risen into the Reds’ top-20 prospect rankings, and teams in need of young pitching might see him as a worthwhile project.
2. Edwin Arroyo – Shortstop Prospect
Edwin Arroyo is finally showing why he was so highly regarded before undergoing shoulder surgery that wiped out last season. Despite his talent, Arroyo faces a tough path to the majors with Elly De La Cruz firmly entrenched at shortstop. His readiness for the big leagues and defensive skillset could make him a prime target for teams seeking infield help.
1. Zach Maxwell – Pitching Prospect
Hard-throwing righty Zach Maxwell entered the year as a favorite to make the Opening Day roster but instead started the season in Triple-A. His blazing fastball is eye-catching, but control issues have held him back. While some view him as future closer material, his lack of command may make him expendable—especially for a team like the Reds that values strike zone discipline in its arms.
As Cincinnati gears up for a late-season run, some of its top prospects may be the price to pay for postseason contention.
