The Cincinnati Reds are reportedly engaged in ongoing discussions with the Cleveland Indians about a potential trade for two-time Cy Young Award winner Corey Kluber and All-Star Trevor Bauer, according to Jon Morosi of MLB.com.
Cincinnati is looking to upgrade one of the worst rotations in the league after its third straight 90-loss campaign. The Reds were previously linked to Kluber in November, and have also been connected to a multitude of other top arms, including southpaw Dallas Keuchel.
The Indians are said to be motivated to move one of Kluber or Bauer after signing Carlos Carrasco to a contract extension last week. Talks surrounding Kluber have reportedly intensified, with the Los Angeles Dodgers said to be involved as a bidder for the pitcher's services. Cleveland is apparently enamored with Dodgers outfield prospect Alex Verdugo.
Bauer, who was an All-Star for the first time in 2018, is only two years away from free agency. The Indians are said to be more inclined to move him instead of Kluber, and Bauer has openly stated that Cleveland might not be able to afford him once he reaches the open market.
The Atlanta Braves are also said to have checked in with Cleveland about a deal for either Kluber or Bauer.
