As the trade deadline came to a close, many fans were in an uproar as big names didn’t join this Reds team. No Taylor Ward, No Eugenio Suarez…many Reds fans were in shambles and ready to protest again. However, Nick Krall had other plans in mind. He added Miguel Andujar, Ke’Bryan Hayes, and Zack Littell. Let’s check in on how they are doing:

· Miguel Andujar is hitting .400 as a Red, .444 with Runners on base, has 3 HRs, 17 hits, and 11 RBIs. He is making a case for player of the month in August. Extending him for next season is beginning to feel like a “must.” Thank you, Nick Krall.

· Ke’Bryan Hayes is the best defensive player in the world. It’s not an exaggeration. To add to that, over his last seven days, he is also producing at the plate, including a double, triple, HR, and going 6-19. He also has reached base on 3 walks. He is one of the best trade deadline additions I can recall over the last decade for the Reds.

· With the injury to Lodolo and Burns “injury” or innings limit, Zack Littell being added to this team at the deadline was massive. While he had one poor start, he’s sporting a 3.52 ERA (27th best in baseball), has a 1.11 WHIP, and was a much needed addition to add to this very good rotation. Without him, Cincinnati would be looking at bullpen days right now and this bullpen is already more than wore out.

Now, I can criticize Krall for not trading Fraley, as we just lost him for nothing, but regarding the moves that Cincinnati made, many fans need to offer him an apology. He is brilliant on a budget and frustrations of money being spent should not be taken out on Nick Krall. Nick Krall made this team way better at the deadline. It’s okay now to admit that you were wrong.

Noelvi Marte – A Future All-Star

Noelvi Marte has been heating up and truly playing to his potential. He is the Reds best hitter currently and continues to carry this team. He has a 10-game hitting streak, three home runs over that stretch, and has a .591 SLG vs RHP this season (3rd in MLB). He is 23 years young and is batting .344 since August 1. He is a 20/20 candidate for the future and Cincinnati should be looking to extend him this offseason. If his strikeout percentage remains low, he could end up being one of the best players in the National League. My wife didn’t like the name “Noelvi” for my first-born son, but if he keeps it up, maybe this will change the second go-around.

67-60

At 67-60, the Cincinnati Reds are currently one game back from a playoff spot (Mets are 67-58). With less than 40 games remaining, it’s time for Cincinnati to keep winning games. This unfortunately will require playing the hot bat and for Matt McLain, it’s time for him to be sent down to AAA. Sal Stewart is long past due for his call-up and McLain has been absolutely abysmal at the plate. It’s time to make the change and find a way to sneak into the playoffs. Do not waste another Elly season with this stellar rotation!