D-backs inquire with Reds about Chapman
ST. LOUIS -- There have been no additional trades executed by the Reds since they sent rotation ace Johnny Cueto to the Royals for three left-handed pitching prospects. But league-wide activity has been brisk with Friday's 4 p.m. ET non-waiver Trade Deadline approaching.
Several Reds players remain prominent in rumors, including closer Aroldis Chapman. On Tuesday, Yahoo Sports reported that the D-backs had asked the Reds about Chapman, which was confirmed by MLB.com's D-backs beat reporter Steve Gilbert.
"I'm going to go down that path and see where it takes us," Arizona general manager Dave Stewart told MLB.com.
Stewart noted that he did not know whether it was likely or unlikely that something would get done for Chapman.
Cincinnati is likely seeking a very strong return for Chapman, who is under club control through the 2016 season. Arizona would seem to be an odd suitor for the 100-mph-throwing closer considering it is a sub-.500 team on the periphery of the postseason chase.
A potential suitor for Chapman, the Nationals, appear to have found their man in Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon.
Teams have been looking at Reds right fielder Jay Bruce, but one team that needed a power-hitting corner outfielder is likely out of the pursuit. The Angels acquired lefty-hitter David Murphy from the Indians on Tuesday after trading for Shane Victorino from the Red Sox on Monday. They also added David DeJesus from the Rays.
As is often the case at any game, scouts were plentiful as the Reds played the Cardinals on Tuesday with Mike Leake pitching. Among the teams were the Dodgers, who reportedly have interest in the right-hander, and the Blue Jays, who have also been seeking starting-pitching help. Leake will be a free agent after the season and seems to be the most likely Red to be traded now that Cueto is no longer with the team.
In other news, the Reds announced that outfielder/infielder Chris Dominguez cleared waivers and was sent outright to Triple-A Louisville. Dominguez was designated for assignment on Sunday to clear spots for the new acquisitions.