A significant offseason trade scenario is emerging that could involve the Cincinnati Reds dealing ace Hunter Greene in an ambitious attempt to acquire Arizona Diamondbacks star Ketel Marte.
Marte, a switch-hitter owed $116.5 million, is coming off a standout season. Although the Reds reached the playoffs with an 83–79 record, Greene was a major reason for their late surge. He posted a 2.76 ERA with a 132/26 strikeout-to-walk ratio and delivered dominant performances against the Cubs and Mets. In that stretch, he became the only pitcher in the modern era (since 1901) to record those numbers or better over a two-start home span.
Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden has cautioned that trading Greene would be a mistake, and ESPN lists the chances of a Greene trade at just 10%. Even so, speculation continues. Analyst Jim Riley of BALLCAP Sports noted the potential fit between Cincinnati and Arizona, suggesting a Greene-for-Marte deal could work for both sides.
Cincinnati does have the pitching depth to survive losing Greene, with Andrew Abbott, Nick Lodolo, Chase Burns, Brady Singer, and Rhett Lowder all available. With the Reds’ pursuit of Kyle Schwarber fading—partly due to the Phillies reportedly preparing a five-year, $145 million offer and other teams such as the Giants also in the chase—the idea of trading for a bat has gained traction. The Reds’ limited payroll, with roughly $20 million of flexibility, makes a Schwarber signing unlikely.
Marte would bring immediate impact to the Reds’ lineup after hitting .283 with 28 home runs, 72 RBIs, earning a Silver Slugger, and landing on the All-MLB First Team. Paired with Elly De La Cruz, a healthy Matt McLain, and Noelvi Marte, he could transform Cincinnati’s offense from developing to dangerous.
For the Diamondbacks, Greene would offer a powerful addition to the rotation alongside Corbin Burnes, though losing Marte’s bat would be a significant sacrifice.
Another team to watch in potential Greene discussions is the Boston Red Sox. Boston has the combination of major-league-ready hitters, top prospects, and organizational motivation to swing a substantial trade. Outfielder Jarren Duran could headline such a package, offering power, speed, and energy despite occasional defensive issues. Pitching prospect Payton Tolle and infielder Mikey Romero could also be involved, giving the Reds both immediate and future contributors.
In this scenario, Boston would land a frontline starter, while Cincinnati would receive an All-Star outfielder, a high-end pitching prospect, and a young infielder ready to join the roster soon—making it a substantial deal for both sides.
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