Reds could target forgotten Orioles infielder made available by their own mistake

Blog Red Machine suggests that the Cincinnati Reds should target Baltimore Orioles infielder Jordan Westburg via a buy-low trade. Writer Stephen Parello argues that Cincinnati needs a reliable third baseman with right-handed power to replace Ke'Bryan Hayes. He notes that the Reds' past decision to let Christian Encarnacion-Strand go allowed Encarnacion-Strand to thrive in Baltimore, potentially making Westburg expendable for the Orioles.

Parello highlights that while Westburg carries strong offensive and defensive potential, his trade acquisition comes with major injury risks. Westburg missed the entire 2026 season following Tommy John surgery after previously dealing with multiple hand, hip, back, and ankle injuries. Due to limited financial resources, Parello argues the Reds must pursue high-upside players with past durability concerns.