Report: Bauer's price too high for Reds, likely to sign elsewhere

Trevor Bauer's time with the Cincinnati Reds appears to be over.

The reigning National League Cy Young Award winner's price in free agency is proving too high for the team, all but assuring he'll sign elsewhere, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports.

However, Bauer addressed the rumor in a tweet on Friday night, suggesting the report could be "fake news."

Last month, Reds general manager Nick Krall said his club hadn't had any "substantial" contract talks with Bauer.

Cincinnati acquired Bauer from the Cleveland Indians in a three-team deal at the 2019 trade deadline in exchange for three players, including outfielder Yasiel Puig and top prospect Taylor Trammell. In 21 total starts for the Reds, Bauer compiled a 3.76 ERA, 3.73 FIP, and 1.04 WHIP with 168 strikeouts and 36 walks. Despite a slow start to his Reds tenure, the right-hander emerged as an ace this summer and became the first pitcher in franchise history to win the Cy Young.

The Toronto Blue Jays and New York Mets are among multiple teams that have been linked to the 29-year-old this winter. Bauer's agent, Rachel Luba, recently indicated the Mets intrigue her client, and he likes the organization's direction.

Because he rejected the Reds' $18.9-million qualifying offer earlier this winter, Cincinnati will receive a compensatory pick in next year's draft if Bauer signs elsewhere. The pick will fall between Round 1 and Competitive Balance Round A if his guaranteed contract is worth $50 million or more. If he signs for less than $50 million, it will convey after Competitive Balance Round B.