The Cincinnati Reds could soon be making a major shake-up to their roster, as ESPN’s David Schoenfield has predicted the team may move on from veteran pitcher Nick Martinez in a significant trade. Martinez, who is earning $21 million this season, finds himself potentially expendable due to the Reds’ surplus of pitching and the imminent return of top prospect Rhett Lowder.
With Nick Lodolo, Hunter Greene, and Brady Singer anchoring the rotation, and Andrew Abbott excelling since his return from injury, Cincinnati has quality arms across the board. Carson Spiers and Nick Martinez have contributed capably, but the return of Lowder could lead to a reconfiguration of the staff.
“Martinez is a useful swingman, but he’s making $21 million, so that’s about $7 million for two months—a steep price for a pitcher who isn’t a lock for a playoff rotation,” Schoenfield wrote. He also noted that if the Chicago Cubs run away with the NL Central, other division rivals may struggle to stay in wild-card contention.
The Reds aren’t necessarily obligated to trade Martinez. He could shift back into a bullpen role where he thrived in 2024. However, teams with urgent pitching needs—like the Baltimore Orioles or New York Yankees—could be interested in adding a veteran with playoff experience.
Whether Martinez stays or goes, his status will be one to watch as the Reds navigate the trade deadline and weigh short-term success against long-term roster planning.
