Call to the pen
Fansided

Cincinnati Reds trade for Justin Dunn looks even worse now

By David Hill

Jun 11, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Justin Dunn (35) reacts after walking in a run during the first inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 11, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Justin Dunn (35) reacts after walking in a run during the first inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /
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The decision to attach Jesse Winker to Eugenio Suarez to facilitate a trade was already unpopular with Cincinnati Reds fans. The return for that duo – Justin Dunn, Jake Fraley, Brandon Williamson, and a player to be named later – was underwhelming. Dunn, at least, is a well regarded pitching prospect, giving the Reds something to point to as a sign of hope.

There were concerns with Dunn at the time of the trade. He had not pitched since June 17 due to shoulder woes. However, the hope was that he would be healthy and able to contribute to the Reds’ rotation sooner rather than later.

Cincinnati Reds get damaged goods with Justin Dunn

That will not be the case. Dunn’s shoulder issues are continuing, and he is expected to be out for at least a couple of months. The Reds were aware of Dunn’s injury, and continued shoulder problems, at the time of the trade.

Dunn is certainly the type of pitcher that can intrigue. He was a top 100 prospect prior to the 2017 season, someone who was viewed as a potential middle of the rotation arm. When Dunn has been on the mound, he has been solid, posting a 3.94 ERA and a 1.354 WHiP in his 102 innings. Although he has struggled with his command, walking 69 batters, he has 92 strikeouts and has allowed just 70 hits.

If Dunn can improve his command, he does have the potential to be a useful piece of the Reds’ pitching staff moving forward. He has a mid 90s fastball that can reach 97 MPH that pairs well with his plus slider. While he does have a fringy change and curve, both pitches are subpar.

But there is plenty of potential with Dunn. If he can improve his secondaries, along with his command, he would be a solid third starter. Otherwise, with his excellent slider and fastball, he could be a high leverage reliever. Of course, that latter result would be considered a disappointment for Reds’ fans.

Next. Votto deserves better from the Reds. dark

The Cincinnati Reds did not seem to get a great return in their trade with the Mariners. Justin Dunn’s injury makes it even more suspect.

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