While the prospects are reportedly the holdup on the Reds getting a deal for J.T. Realmuto done, there may be another glitch.
The Miami Herald reported that at least one team asked for permission to speak to Realmuto’s agent about a multiyear deal. The Marlins refused.
Realmuto will make $5.9 million this season. He’s arbitration-eligible for the third time in 2020 (he’ll make north of $10 million) and becomes a free agent in 2021.
The Reds have Tucker Barnhart signed for $2.9 million for this year, for $3.9 million for 2020 and $4.1 million for 2021.