Three team deal has several players on the move

As the hands on the clocks slowly ticked from late Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning, we began to hear news of the second major deal to be struck during this season’s last-minute maneuvering.

THE DEAL:

The three-team blockbuster involves the Reds, Indians, and Padres – with Trevor Bauer and Yasiel Puig being the marquis names on the move. Here are the details as outlined by ESPN’s Jeff Passan:

Earlier this morning Cleveland confirmed the trade was finalized.

THE IMPACT:

The Reds add Bauer to a rotation that already features Sonny Gray and Luis Castillo, strengthening their starting pitching. He has one year left before hitting free agency, and had made it clear he didn’t want to re-up with the tribe. Cleveland strengthens their outfield (a need they’ve had for a while now) by acquiring Puig and Franmil Reyes, while also adding another arm to their roster. Allen could have a chance to earn a rotation spot in the future. The Padres are banking on Taylor Trammell blossoming and reaching his upside. He’s been struggling in the minors so far, but given his youth, he should fit right in with the Padres plans.

Cleveland is trying to chase down the Twins in their division while also wanting to keep hold of a wild card spot should they come up short. Both the Reds and Padres are looking to next year with these moves. They are in 4th place in their respective divisions and have quite a hill to climb if they were hoping for a wild card spot.

MORE TO COME?

Outside of the Mets surprise trade for Marcus Stroman, there hasn’t been much in the way of fireworks leading into the deadline. Could this be the deal that opens the floodgates? Will there be a last minute flurry of deals or will 4pm Wednesday come and go with little fanfare? Stay tuned right here to find out.