In a bold midseason move that signals a clear shift in direction, the Cincinnati Reds have officially traded veteran right-hander Nick Martinez to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The deal, completed outside of the trade deadline frenzy, reflects Cincinnati’s increasing trust in its young pitching core and the desire to build long-term roster flexibility.
Martinez, 33, had rejoined the Reds for the 2025 season on a $21.05 million qualifying offer after signing a two-year, $26 million deal following the 2023 campaign. Known for his adaptability, Martinez had filled both starting and relief roles in Cincinnati. This season, he made 16 starts in 18 total appearances, posting a 4.12 ERA across 89.1 innings. His standout performance came in late June when he flirted with a no-hitter against the Padres, showcasing the kind of dominance that had long made him a valuable rotation piece.
Despite his flashes of excellence, Cincinnati’s rotation had become crowded with rising arms like Andrew Abbott, Nick Lodolo, Brady Singer, and top prospect Chase Burns, with Hunter Greene expected to return from the IL soon. With limited rotation spots and an eye on the future, the Reds opted to move Martinez now—gaining a promising package of near-MLB-ready prospects from Los Angeles.
“Nick brought professionalism, grit, and a veteran presence to our clubhouse,” said Reds manager David Bell. “We’re thankful for what he gave us, and this trade opens opportunities for our younger pitchers who are ready to take the next step.”
The Dodgers, meanwhile, acquire an arm capable of making immediate starts or shifting to a long-relief role if needed. With their rotation battered by injuries, Martinez fills a critical need. He also brings postseason experience, having thrown 11 strong innings in relief for the Padres during the 2022 playoffs, surrendering just one run and striking out 11.
The Reds’ decision to part ways with Martinez is as much about looking forward as it is about maximizing value in the present. The incoming prospects from L.A. boost the system, while the move itself clears the way for Cincinnati’s young rotation to lead the way through the second half of the season.
Nick Martinez’s time in Cincinnati may have been short-lived, but it was impactful. As he heads to the West Coast, the Reds turn the page—committed to their young arms and a future built from within.
