Just before the trade deadline, the Cincinnati Reds revealed their hand. Rather than going all-in on 2025 with a rental, Cincinnati acquired Ke’Bryan Hayes, who is on a team-friendly contract with a club option for 2030.
While the deal does have immediate impact forcing Noelvi Marte into right field, the more significant repercussions will play out in the farm system where Sal Stewart will need to find a different path to the big leagues.
Stewart, like his draft classmate Cam Collier, was selected as a third baseman in 2022 but has sought greater versatility in the minors.