Reds Making Aggressive Push for Realmuto
Jon Heyman of Fancred reported yesterday that the Cincinnati Reds have now emerged as the third team making a push for Miami Marlins catcher, JT Realmuto. While there has been progress in talks between the two sides, there is no sign that they are close to the finish line at the moment, writes Heyman.
Heyman also notes that the Marlins could be targeting Reds prospects Hunter Greene, Nick Senzel, and Taylor Trammell, although they consider these three players to be untouchable. Reds veteran catcher, Tucker Barnhart and fifth overall draft pick last June in third basemen, Jonathan India are also potential names that could be included if this deal were to occur, according to Heyman.
While the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres have been at the center of rumors linked to Realmuto in the past few days, Cincinnati without a doubt has the strength in their farm system to complete this deal and ultimately satisfy both sides.
Padres Still in on Realmuto
According to Ken Rosenthal and Dennis Lin of The Athletic, The San Diego Padres are still in on Realmuto, as previously mentioned. The only question is how aggressive they are in comparison to the Reds.
The Marlins reportedly want top catching prospect, Francisco Mejia (per Jon Morosi of MLB.com), who the Padres are unwilling to give up as of now. They are also seeking a starting pitching prospect (talks of Adrian Morejon), along with a major league ready outfielder, with Manuel Margot being a possible trade candidate writes Rosenthal.
Former Met Pitcher Retires
Right-handed pitcher Dillon Gee announced his retirement from baseball on Twitter. The former Mets pitcher played in parts of eight major league seasons including six in Flushing.
Gee, 32, went 40-37 with a 4.03 ERA and 4.9 bWAR in 679.1 innings over 114 games (110 starts). He made his big league debut on September 7, 2010 and was the Mets Opening Day starter in 2014.
Rangers Sign Shawn Kelley
Veteran relief pitcher, Shawn Kelley has signed a one year contract with the Texas Rangers worth $2.5 million tweeted Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, who gave credit to Jeff Passan of ESPN, who first reported the salary and Heyman for reporting the deal being close. This contract also includes a 2020 club option of $2.5 million that includes a $250,000 buyout.
Heading into his age 35 season, Kelley is coming off a solid 2018 campaign, where he spent time with the Washington Nationals and Oakland Athletics posting a 1.1 WAR, 2.94 ERA, .898 WHIP, and 3.71 FIP, while striking out 50 batters in 49 innings.
