Reds President Nick Krall’s Latest Comments Leave Reds Fans With More Questions Than Answers

After opening the season with a strong 20-11 record, the Reds have since cooled off and now sit at 31-29, placing them at the bottom of the National League Central standings.

Injuries have played a major role in their struggles, with key players such as Hunter Greene, Rhett Lowder, Emilio Pagán, Pierce Johnson, Graham Ashcraft, and Brandon Williamson all spending time sidelined.

“We’re trying to keep our heads above water right now,” Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall told MLB.com’s Mark Sheldon. “We’ve had some pitching injuries. Obviously, it’s trying to get some of those guys back. But at the same time, you have a lot of good teams in this league.

While Krall makes a valid point, it’s not an excuse fans will want to hear. This is why it’s important to develop young talent. Luis Mey, Zach Maxwell, Connor Phillips, Lyon Richardson, and Kyle Nicolas are all pitchers who have failed to take a big step forward yet this season. If small market teams like the Reds are going to have depth, they need to be better at developing talent within. All four of the pitchers mentioned above have struggled with their command.

“If we can keep our heads above water, we have a shot to hang in there,” Krall continued. “You’re going to have to take some more time before we can figure out exactly who we are and what we can do.”

Trade Options for the Reds

Could the Reds trade for more pitching depth?

Krall said the Reds have checked in with a lot of clubs already about possible trades, but there hasn’t been much traction yet. This isn’t surprising. This early in the season, not many teams are ready to declare themselves as “sellers.”