The Cincinnati Reds were a team that was expected to be much improved in 2024 after barely missing out on the postseason in 2023. Some even picked them to come out on top in the National League Central.
However, the team has struggled in 2024. At 51-55, they sit in fourth place in the National League Central, 10 games out of first and five games back in the Wild Card race. As such, they have decided to sell at the trade deadline.
According to Robert Murray, the Reds are sending a key veteran reliever to the Boston Red Sox.
“The Boston Red Sox are acquiring reliever Lucas Sims from the Cincinnati Reds, according to sources familiar with the deal,” Murray wrote on Twitter.
Sims has been a key piece in the Reds bullpen for several years. The 30-year-old has appeared in 43 games for the Reds this season. In those appearances, he is 1-4 with a 3.57 ERA and has logged a total of 35.1 innings while also striking out 40 batters and posting a 1.42 WHIP.
The Reds also announced the details of the trade. In exchange for Sims, Cincinnati is acquiring Single-A right-hander Ovis Portes.
The 19-year-old Portes has posted a 2.12 ERA and recorded two saves in the minor leagues this season. Of his 11 outings, five have been starts.
Cincinnati sent right-hander Frankie Montas to the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday night. It’s possible that they may not be done just yet. It will interesting to see if they decide to sell off a few more pieces.
More MLB: James McCann hit by pitch video: Orioles catcher spits blood, stays in game after 95-mph fastball injures nose
