MLB insider predicts high demand for Pirates CF Bryan Reynolds despite his steep price tag
Bryan Reynolds, the center fielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates, is generating buzz in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a hot commodity. Despite his steep price tag, rival executives are reportedly holding out hope of securing a trade deal with the Pirates. The demand for Reynolds is due to his impressive performances on the field, which has made him one of the most sought-after players in the league.
Reynolds, a former second-round draft pick, made his MLB debut in 2019 and quickly made a name for himself. In his rookie season, he batted .314 with 16 home runs and an .882 on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS).
He was named to the National League (NL) All-Rookie Team and finished fourth in the NL Rookie of the Year award voting. Reynolds continued his success in the shortened 2020 season, hitting .245 with three home runs and a .715 OPS. In 2021, he was one of only two Pirates players to play in the All-Star game.
Reynolds’s offensive production, combined with his impressive defense in center field, has made him a valuable asset to teams looking to add a talented player to their roster. However, the Pirates are reportedly seeking a high price for Reynolds, hoping for a “Soto-type” deal. That refers to the blockbuster trade the Washington Nationals made with the San Diego Padres, trading Juan Soto and Josh Bell in exchange for six players.
MLB insider and NY Post columnist Jon Heyman wrote:
"Some rival execs are holding out hope even though they say Pittsburgh is seeking a “Soto-type” deal. (The Yankees showed interest and the Marlins are among the more “aggressive” teams.) Here’s where I’d normally rip the Pirates, but they actually showed signs of trying this winter. They remain most interested in locking up Reynolds — who still seeks a trade after rebuffing a six-year, $76 million offer."
Time for spring storylines: Ohtani, Reynolds, Bauer, deGrom and more
nypost.com/2023/02/02/sho…
Bryan Reynolds will draw interest from host of MLB teams
While a "Soto-like" deal is more of an exaggeration by the baseball executives involved, Bryan Reynolds will have a lot of interest from other teams. The Pittsburgh Pirates are unlikely to get a deal like that Reynolds, so the possibility of arbitration remains before he enters free agency.
A trade still looks like the most likely option for both parties, with many teams expressing interest in the 28-year-old. The Miami Marlins, New York Yankees, Atlanta Braves and Boston Red Sox could all use a talented outfielder like Bryan Reynolds. Till then, the Reynolds saga will likely continue to dominate offseason headlines.