Reds focused on acquiring young talent
Club also looking to add veteran starter to stabilize rotation
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- As a proposed trade of closer Aroldis Chapman had to be put on hold amid the surfacing of a report of alleged domestic violence, the Reds stayed focused on other baseball business Monday during the Winter Meetings.
"There were other things we were working on," Reds president of baseball operations Walt Jocketty said. "We spent most of the day today working on other things. We spent a great deal of time today working on the Rule 5 Draft, which we normally don't do. We've got the second pick and we're hoping to draft a couple of players."
Seeking to rebuild and acquire young talent, the Reds came to the Winter Meetings looking to make trades -- with Chapman being the top priority to move. But Jocketty and general manager Dick Williams have made it clear all offseason they are willing to listen on several veteran players.
When asked specifically about third baseman Todd Frazier and right fielder Jay Bruce, Jocketty would not characterize the interest.
"We're getting a lot of heat and discussions on several guys," Jocketty said. "I don't talk about our guys, individually."
Cincinnati is also seeking a veteran starting pitcher for the rotation.
"According to our plan, we'd like to have a veteran guy to stabilize the staff and kind of lead the youngsters," Jocketty said. "In our shopping market, the prices today are a little high. It's tough. I think it's something that won't happen for a while, not as soon as other deals."
One veteran pitcher on the open market and trying to make a comeback from a flexor tear that did not require surgery is Cliff Lee. When asked about Lee, Jocketty said that the club has not had any discussions about the former All-Star and ace from the Phillies and Indians.
The Reds expected Tuesday to be another busy day.
"A lot of agents want to get together with us," Jocketty said. "We'll continue to talk to clubs about different trades."