Report: Mariners’ search for starting pitching could involve Reds

The Reds did not do much in terms of actual moves during the MLB winter meetings, but the hot stove could still get fired up any time.

MLB Network reported late Monday that Cincinnati is one of two teams that has been in contact with Seattle as the Mariners search for starting pitching help.

The other team Jon P. Morosi mentioned: the Tampa Bay Rays.

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That was all the information Morosi offered on Twitter, but it is an intriguing nugget considering the Reds reportedly came close to trading shortstop Zack Cozart to the Mariners in July and pitchers Anthony DeSclafani and Dan Straily were mentioned as players getting some interest from teams last week.

New Reds general manager Dick Williams confirmed the team would listen to offers for just about anyone on the roster, but he also indicated the team would rather keep its four established starters –DeSclafani, Straily, Homer Bailey and Brandon Finnegon – unless it gets knocked over by an offer.

The Mariners don’t need a shortstop anymore after acquiring Jean Segura in November, but there might still be Seattle prospects the Reds are intrigued by.

The teams might also be considering a three-way trade that could allow Cincinnati to move Cozart (making room for Jose Peraza) without giving up a starter.

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