The Cincinnati Reds have positioned themselves as buyers at the MLB trade deadline, but their top target may soon be sidelined. Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suárez was hit on the hand by a 96 mph fastball from reliever Will Vest during Monday’s game against the Detroit Tigers. Suárez immediately left the field with trainers, and manager Torey Lovullo now lists him as day-to-day.
The injury comes at a bad time for the D-backs, who were actively trying to move Suárez before Thursday’s deadline. A stint on the injured list could put a stop to any trade talks involving the two-time All-Star, who’s been one of the most talked-about bats on the market.
The Reds are among several teams hoping to land Suárez before the July 31 deadline. Ironically, the Tigers—Monday’s opponent—are also reported to be in the mix, along with the Chicago Cubs, Milwaukee Brewers, Houston Astros, and Seattle Mariners.
Reds dream trade now at risk after unsettling Eugenio Suárez development
Suárez had been having an All-Star season with the Diamondbacks, but Arizona chose to sell. Last week, D-backs general manager Mike Hazen began selling off assets like as Josh Naylor, with the hope of getting a good price for Suárez.
A bidding war has arisen for Suárez’s services, but such plans may fail if Suárez sustains a fracture or is scheduled to miss any time. Some fans may recall that Suárez was also struck in the hand during the All-Star Game earlier this month.
The hope is that X-rays come back negative and Suárez is available for tomorrow’s game in Detroit. If the worst-case scenario occurs and Geno is assigned to the IL, the Reds’ chase of the former fan favorite is likely to come to a stop.
Cincinnati has other options if Suárez is suddenly unavailable. During Sunday Night Baseball, ESPN’s Buster Olney suggested that Tampa Bay Rays slugger Yandy Díaz could join the Cincinnati Reds. Outfield bats such as Ramon Laureano and Alex Call will be available before Thursday’s deadline.