3 team needs for the Reds leading up to the trade deadline
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The Cincinnati Reds have watched their last two seasons end in heartbreak.
Two years ago, they were the team to beat before choking away a 2-0 lead to the San Francisco Giants in the National League Division Series. Last season, the Reds stumbled down the stretch, losing their last four games to the Pittsburgh Pirates, including the Wild Card play-in.
With one week to go before the trade deadline, it remains unclear if they'll finally get over the hump this year.
The Reds find themselves in the thick of a crowded NL Central, with four teams in striking distance of the division lead and each of them with their own weaknesses. Here are three areas the Reds could stand to improve to bolster their playoff chances.
1. Power-hitting outfielder
Cincinnati's offense has taken a major hit with injuries to Joey Votto and Brandon Phillips. The Reds rank 20th in OPS and 23rd in runs scored and despite assurances from general manager Walt Jocketty that the two sluggers will return in time for the stretch run, there is no time like the present for the team to make its run in the Central.
While Jocketty may opt to roll the dice on internal replacements at those positions, the Reds could use an upgrade in the outfield. Ryan Ludwick and Chris Heisey have been underwhelming as the predominant pair in left field, teaming up for a total of 10 home runs and 1.1 wins above replacement.
Cincinnati is reportedly interested in Marlon Byrd but the market promises to be heavy on the Philadelphia Phillies' slugger.
Related: Reds' Jocketty: 'I'd like to add a bat'
2. Middle infielder
Phillips' thumb injury is concerning for a club that's relied on power out of the second base position. If the 33-year-old has trouble regaining his stroke upon his return from the disabled list, the Reds will be left with a black hole up the middle in terms of offensive production.
Zack Cozart is a very good defensive shortstop, but he's not improving as a hitter. He's batting below his career line of .247/.286/.373, and after posting back-to-back double-digit homer seasons, his two home runs thus far have been a major disappointment.
Ben Zobrist would be a terrific fit in Cincinnati. His versatility could fill holes up the middle and in left field, while his switch-hitting ability would allow manager Bryan Price to take better advantage of lefty-righty splits.
3. Left-handed reliever
The Reds' strength lies in their pitching but one can never have enough, especially in the NL. Cincinnati lays claim to one of baseball's top left-handed relievers in Aroldis Chapman, but are devoid of another impact southpaw out of the bullpen.
Three of the Reds' best relievers are right-handed and after losing Sean Marshall to season-ending surgery, the team is in need of another matchup specialist from the left side.