In a stunning and uncharacteristic move, the Cincinnati Reds have officially acquired elite relievers Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax from the Minnesota Twins, confirming reports of their strong pursuit and signaling a major shift in organizational strategy. The blockbuster trade marks a dramatic change in tone for a franchise that has typically operated with caution at the trade deadline — but with their postseason hopes alive and a competitive window wide open, the Reds are all in.
While financial heavyweights like the Dodgers and Yankees often make splashy moves for short-term rentals, the Reds focused on controllable talent. Both Duran and Jax are under team control beyond the 2025 season, making them not only immediate bullpen reinforcements but also long-term assets. This strategic approach allows Cincinnati to address a pressing need without sacrificing their vision for the future.
The cost was steep. According to sources close to the front office, the Reds parted with multiple top-15 organizational prospects, including at least one ranked within MLB Pipeline’s Top 100. Though the names have not yet been officially confirmed, the deal reportedly includes highly regarded infield and pitching talent, indicating just how serious the Reds are about contending now.
This aggressive push comes in the wake of a season where the Reds have overcome significant injuries and inconsistency to remain in the playoff mix. Led by returning manager Terry Francona and energized by the continued rise of superstar Elly De La Cruz, Cincinnati has emerged as one of baseball’s most resilient clubs. Still, bullpen depth remained a glaring weakness, especially in high-leverage situations — a gap now filled with two of the best arms available on the trade market.
Jhoan Duran, known for his triple-digit fastball and dominant late-inning presence, brings electric stuff and closer-level experience. Griffin Jax, a versatile and reliable setup man with swing-and-miss stuff, gives the Reds a dynamic 1-2 punch in the back of the bullpen. Both players have postseason experience and will immediately slot into key roles.
This move could very well reshape the National League playoff picture. More importantly, it sends a clear message to fans and the rest of the league: the Reds aren’t waiting for the future anymore—they’re chasing it down now.
Even if the team falls short this October, the acquisitions of Duran and Jax provide a strong bullpen core to build around for the next few years. In a division ripe for the taking and a roster filled with young stars, Cincinnati has finally taken the leap — and they’re aiming straight for the top.
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