After successful seasons from veteran relievers Jared Hughes and David Hernandez last year, the Cincinnati Reds are hoping they can find value from another experienced reliever.
The Reds are close to a deal with left-handed reliever Zach Duke, according to a source. After completing three trades to revamp the starting rotation, Duke will likely become the Reds’ first free-agent signing of the offseason.
Duke, who will turn 36 in April, made 72 relief appearances with the Minnesota Twins and Seattle Mariners last year. He had a 4.15 ERA, striking out 51 in 52 innings while allowing only one home run.