Milwaukee Brewers and Cincinnati Reds Nearing Agreement on Blockbuster Trade
In a move that could significantly impact the NL Central race, the Milwaukee Brewers are on the cusp of acquiring veteran right-hander Frankie Montas from the Cincinnati Reds. According to sources within the league, both teams are finalizing the deal, although neither has officially confirmed it at this time.
In exchange for Montas, Milwaukee will send outfielder Joey Wiemer and right-handed pitcher Jakob Junis to Cincinnati. This trade marks the latest effort by the Brewers to bolster their pitching staff as they eye a postseason push. Earlier this month, Milwaukee acquired Aaron Civale from the Tampa Bay Rays and added right-handed reliever Nick Mears in a minor trade with the Colorado Rockies.
Frankie Montas: A Risky Investment?
Montas, 31, is currently playing under a one-year, $16 million contract. Despite his veteran status, his performance this season leaves room for concern. Over 19 starts, Montas has posted a 5.01 ERA, tallying 93 1/3 innings. His recent outings have been particularly troubling; carrying a 6.41 ERA and a .866 opponent's OPS in his last eight starts, he has averaged fewer than five innings per outing during this stretch.
Nevertheless, the Brewers are betting on Montas to steady their rotation as they look to maintain their six-game lead in the NL Central. With a 60-45 record, Milwaukee is well-positioned for a postseason berth but still requires reliable arms to navigate the final months of the regular season.
A New Chapter for Joey Wiemer and Jakob Junis
Heading to Cincinnati in the trade are Joey Wiemer and Jakob Junis. Wiemer, a 25-year-old outfielder and University of Cincinnati alum, had a mixed rookie season in 2023. He slashed .204/.283/.362 with 13 home runs, showing flashes of potential but also areas for improvement.
Junis, on a one-year deal himself, becomes another rental player within the Reds' system. With Cincinnati openly considering moves for their relievers Lucas Sims and Justin Wilson, as well as potential trade talks for second baseman Jonathan India, the Reds' front office appears keen on reshaping their roster after a disappointing stretch.
Cincinnati's Position in the Standings
The Reds currently hold a 51-55 record and are 4.5 games out of a postseason spot. While the trade of Montas could be seen as a step back in their immediate competitive hopes, it underscores the team's priority on future assets and flexibility. Acquiring young talent like Wiemer and Junis aligns with this direction.
For Milwaukee, the acquisition of Montas represents an aggressive move to solidify their rotation and enhance their competitive edge. Coupled with their earlier acquisitions, the Brewers are demonstrating a clear commitment to contending deep into the playoffs.
As both teams navigate the final stages of this trade, the broader implications for the NL Central and the National League postseason picture will become clearer. The Brewers are firmly in the driver's seat, but Cincinnati's maneuvers could disrupt that balance.
Stay tuned as the MLB trade deadline approaches and teams make strategic decisions that could reshape their fortunes.