Cincinnati Reds fans are anxiously hoping for a reunion with Him as the MLB trade deadline approaches. However, some were also quietly wishing for the return of another familiar name.
Stuart Fairchild, who was let go by the Reds just before the start of the season, was recently designated for assignment by the Atlanta Braves. He has now been traded to the Tampa Bay Rays for cash considerations after Brandon Lowe landed on the 15-day injured list with ankle and foot tendinitis.
Fairchild had joined the Braves shortly after the 2025 season got underway but struggled to make an impact, batting just .216/.273/.333 with a 68 wRC+ over 28 games. Last season, he played in 94 games for Cincinnati and excelled against left-handed pitchers — an area where the Reds have had ongoing difficulties this year.
Rays-Braves trade just killed a Reds reunion fans were quietly hoping for
After being designated for assignment, Stuart Fairchild was in a state of uncertainty. The Braves had only a brief window to either trade him or release him outright. Had he cleared waivers, Fairchild could have chosen free agency or accepted a minor league assignment. However, the Tampa Bay Rays, looking to fill a roster spot, seized the opportunity to acquire the versatile outfielder at a minimal cost.
A reunion with the Reds was unlikely, as a trade with the Braves wasn’t expected, and claiming Fairchild off waivers would have meant opening a spot on Cincinnati’s 40-man roster. With no minor league options left, the only way the Reds could’ve brought him back was on a minor league deal.
Cincinnati’s need for a right-handed hitting outfielder became especially clear in the first game after the All-Star break. Manager Terry Francona opted to start Santiago Espinal in right field against a lefty, and two days later, Noelvi Marte was put in a tough spot.
While Fairchild wouldn’t have solved all of the Reds’ problems, he could’ve provided a steady defensive presence and has had past success hitting left-handers. That said, he’s struggled in 2025, batting just .226/.314/.355 against southpaws.
The Reds still have a chance to upgrade the roster before the trade deadline, but with just over a week remaining, Nick Krall and the front office will need to act quickly if they plan to make a move.
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