According to C. Trent Rosecrans, the Cincinnati Reds have expressed an interest in Free Agent outfielder, Carlos Beltran. He has been courted heavily this offseason by the New York Yankees and many feel they have the upper hand in negotiations with the 36-year old Beltran.
,
“While the American League would seem
to be a better fit for the 36-year-old, he
tells Piñeiro that he would prefer to play
in the National League.”
– Zach Links of MLB Trade Rumors
The Reds have been notorious bottom-feeders when it comes to payroll. They have just signed Skip Schumaker to a two-year deal for $5M. A good chunk of change could be used for Beltran if the Reds decide to unload Brandon Phillips. With Schumaker on board, the Reds would have a battle-tested second baseman to move right in the lineup.
With the Reds 2013 center-fielder Shin-Soo Choo most likely ending up elsewhere, a Beltran signing would make things interesting. With Billy Hamilton not looking quite ready for the top level, Jay Bruce could move from right field to center, allowing Beltran to stay at the position he has manned in recent years.
The Yankees, as usual have all the resources they need to sign anybody if it should become a bidding war. Beltran would probably produce a 35 HR season at the hitter-friendly GABP.
The 8-time All-Star and 1999 Rookie of the Year has 12 seasons in which he hit 20+ HR and drove in over 100 runs on eight occasions.
Reds To The Bone 