Reds, Cozart have mutual interest in extension

Cincinnati Reds president of baseball operations Dick Williams is tempering any trade rumors regarding shortstop Zack Cozart.

While Cozart is scheduled to hit free agency after the 2017 season, the Reds aren't opposed to keeping the 31-year-old around long term, rather than trying to cash in on his sky-high value before the trade deadline.

"I know there's mutual interest in the future with Zack," Williams told the Cincinnati Enquirer's Zach Buchanan. "Maybe we can figure out a way to make that happen."

Cozart is enjoying a career season with the Reds, as the veteran infielder is slashing .320/.404/.562 - his .966 OPS is 155 points higher than his previous career high - to go with nine home runs in 58 games.

With Cozart's breakout performance this season likely to attract potential suitors in the offseason, Williams admitted it could persuade the club to begin talks with their shortstop sooner rather than later.

"I'm sure it would be prudent to see what's out there on his part, to see what's there on the market," Williams said. "That's why I think we need to at least initiate some discussions now."