The Cincinnati Reds have officially completed a multi-player trade with the Minnesota Twins, reigniting a successful trade partnership and making a decisive move to strengthen their postseason aspirations.
The deal, finalized just weeks before the 2025 MLB trade deadline, sees the Reds acquire relief pitchers Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax, along with versatile slugger Kody Clemens and former Gold Glove outfielder Harrison Bader. In exchange, the Twins receive a competitive package of prospects including Connor Phillips, Sal Stewart, and outfielder Carlos Jorge, giving Minnesota valuable young assets for the future.
This high-impact trade comes as no surprise to fans who remember the Reds-Twins connection from previous deals—most notably the 2022 deadline move that brought Spencer Steer and Christian Encarnacion-Strand to Cincinnati in exchange for Tyler Mahle, and the 2023 offseason swap involving Sonny Gray and pitching prospect Chase Petty.
Now, the two clubs have struck again—this time with major postseason implications.
Bullpen Reinforcements: Duran and Jax Bring Heat
With the acquisition of Jhoan Duran, the Reds land one of the most electrifying late-inning arms in baseball. The flame-throwing right-hander, who averages 101 mph on his fastball, had recorded 15 saves with Minnesota this season and will immediately take over closing duties in Cincinnati. Duran is under team control through 2027, making him a key piece not only for 2025, but for future playoff runs.
Griffin Jax, meanwhile, brings elite strikeout numbers (65 Ks in 40.1 innings) and a dependable 7th or 8th-inning presence. Signed through 2027 as well, Jax complements Duran and transforms the Reds’ bullpen into one of the most formidable in the National League.
Boosting the Bats: Clemens and Bader Add Depth and Power
Kody Clemens, son of MLB legend Roger Clemens, adds a left-handed power threat and positional flexibility. Though batting just .216 on the season, Clemens has belted 12 home runs and posted a .507 slugging percentage and 117 OPS+, making him a dangerous depth piece against right-handed pitching.
The deal also marks the return of Harrison Bader, who previously played a brief stint for Cincinnati in 2023. This season with Minnesota, Bader has rediscovered his form, hitting .249 with 11 home runs and 34 RBIs, while continuing to shine defensively in the outfield. His speed, glove, and postseason experience make him a valuable addition for the stretch run.
Front Office Statement and Fan Reaction
Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall confirmed the trade in a statement released Monday morning:
“This move reflects our commitment to building a championship-caliber team—not just for this season, but beyond. We are thrilled to bring in Duran, Jax, Clemens, and Bader, all of whom fit both our immediate needs and long-term vision.”
The news has ignited excitement across Reds Nation, with fans praising the front office for aggressively targeting talent instead of standing pat.
Looking Ahead
With this blockbuster deal, the Reds have addressed two major needs—bullpen stability and offensive depth—while reinforcing their reputation as a team ready to win now. The organization still has flexibility for additional moves ahead of the deadline, but this Twins partnership may prove to be the defining trade of Cincinnati’s 2025 campaign.
The Reds currently sit in prime Wild Card position, but this deal sends a clear message: they intend to climb even higher.
