MLB Trade Deadline: 3 Cincinnati Reds players likely to be traded by July 30

The Cincinnati Reds are one of the most interesting clubs to keep an eye on as the July 30 MLB trade deadline approaches. It remains unclear what the Reds' front office is planning for the deadline, as the team could be buyers or sellers at only 5.0 games outside of an NL Wild Card spot.

If the Reds do decide to become sellers, they have a number of players who could draw interest across the MLB. Cincinnati has built one of the top young cores in the league, so they would likely look to move some of their aging veterans or players on expiring deals.

3 players the Cincinnati Reds could deal before the MLB Trade Deadline

#1, Frankie Montas

If Cincinnati does decide to sell off some of their veteran pieces, Frankie Montas is the most likely candidate to go. The 31-year-old has a $20 million mutual option for next season, so the Reds may look to move the starting pitcher now, rather than potentially losing him for nothing in the offseason.

"With another tough loss today -- one-run losses are a theme for Cincinnati this year -- the Reds are moving close to being sellers. Frankie Montas and some of their relievers are drawing attention from other teams" - @Buster_ESPN

Montas has been a popular name in trade rumors this summer with teams such as the Baltimore Orioles linked to the veteran righty. Given his age and contract, Montas makes the most sense to be traded by the franchise.

#2, Jonathan India

Another star that has been in trade rumors for seemingly two years now is Jonathan India. The veteran has been enjoying a bounceback season and now could be the optimal time to capitalize on his trade value. If India becomes available, he should have multiple clubs vying for his services, including the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees.

"Jonathan India knows how to start a game" - @StoolBaseball

#3, Nick Martinez

Nick Martinez is another veteran pitcher who will certainly draw interest from clubs if Cincinnati opts to become sellers. The versatile pitcher has a $12 million player option for the 2025 season, so the franchise may want to create additional salary space heading into next year. Martinez would be an asset to several contenders heading into the playoffs so the front office could get a decent package for him if they do decide to sell.

The decision to sell will largely depend on whether the franchise thinks it can realistically compete this season. Being bottom of the NL Central, albeit five games from a wild card spot, suggests the team is more likely to be sellers than buyers, and it will be interesting to see if that is the case. With the deadline on Tuesday, there could be a lot of movement in a very short time in Cincinnati.