May 23, 2025 | Cincinnati, OH
The Cincinnati Reds may have pulled off one of the most quietly brilliant bullpen upgrades of the year — and hardly anyone noticed.
After Alexis Díaz got off to a rocky start to the 2025 season, the Reds made a bold move in early May, trading with the Arizona Diamondbacks to acquire veteran right-hander Kevin Ginkel. Since arriving in Cincinnati, Ginkel has completely transformed the Reds’ late-inning approach.
In his first nine appearances in a Reds uniform, Ginkel has yet to allow a run, notching four saves and striking out 12 while walking none. His calm demeanor and efficient slider-sinker combo have given the bullpen a much-needed sense of stability.
“Kevin came in and owned the role from day one,” Reds manager Terry Francona said after a 3-2 win over the Brewers. “We were in a spot where we needed a change, and he delivered exactly what we needed.”
Díaz, who had a breakout season in 2023, struggled with command early this year, walking nine batters in his first ten innings. The Reds, knowing they’re in a tight NL Central race, didn’t wait to see if he’d turn it around. Instead, they acted swiftly — and so far, that urgency has paid off.
Ginkel, 31, had quietly been one of the more dependable relievers in Arizona before the Reds scooped him up. The deal cost Cincinnati a Double-A outfielder and some international pool money — a small price to pay for what could be one of the season’s most effective midseason bullpen turnarounds.
“Sometimes, the move you don’t expect turns out to be the one that makes the difference,” said Reds GM Nick Krall. “Ginkel has been that guy for us.”
As the Reds stay neck-and-neck with the Cubs and Brewers in a competitive division, Ginkel’s unexpected arrival might just be the quiet spark that keeps their playoff hopes alive.
