Zach Littel’s Trade to the Reds

Zach Littel started the night playing for the Rays, but by the end of a grueling 11-inning game against the Yankees, he was set to join the Reds.

The trade involves Littel moving to the Reds, while the Rays gain catcher Hunter Fedeccia and right-handed pitcher Brian Van Bell, as reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan.

Passan also mentioned that the Dodgers were part of the trade talks, acquiring three players: left-handed Adam Selwinowski, right-handed Paul Gerverth, and catcher Ben Rothvett.

Right after the game concluded, Littel learned about the trade, a development that had been hinted at earlier.

He reflected on the situation saying, “It obviously doesn’t sneak up on you.” After the Rays’ 5-4 loss to the Yankees, he shared this with reporters. Littel had started the game, pitching five innings, allowing only two hits, before being relieved by Garrett Creubing at the start of the sixth.

As this season approaches its end, Littel will soon be a free agent, creating an interesting situation for him moving forward.

“I knew right away,” Littel commented about the final out. Although he felt the change was coming, he noted that it wasn’t technically official yet. Neander, the president of baseball operations, kept him in the loop, indicating that medical evaluations were underway and some details were still shifting.

The 29-year-old has had an 8-8 record this season with a 3.58 ERA across 22 starts. Ironically, his last outing for the Rays was a bit rough, as he allowed five runs last Friday.

Littel expressed mixed feelings about his time with the team, saying, “It’s hard to put into words. The opportunity I’ve had here has truly changed my life, and I’m very grateful.”