The Cincinnati Reds have completed a deal to send right-handed reliever Casey Legumina to the Seattle Mariners. While it’s called a trade, it’s more of a sale, with the Reds receiving cash considerations in exchange for Legumina, rather than a traditional player-for-player trade.
Last week, the Reds designated Legumina for assignment to free up a spot on the 40-man roster for newly signed outfielder Austin Hays. Instead of letting him go through waivers, Seattle offered the Reds a small amount of cash (likely a modest sum) to acquire him directly, avoiding the uncertainty of a waiver claim.
Over the past two seasons, Legumina has mostly been used in a shuttle role, moving between Triple-A Louisville and the majors when the Reds needed extra bullpen help. In 2023, he appeared in 11 games with the Reds, posting a 5.68 ERA while allowing 21 baserunners in 12.2 innings. Last season, his performance dipped further, with a 8.68 ERA in six games, giving up 18 baserunners in 9.1 innings.
Though he has struggled to find success in the big leagues, Legumina excelled in Triple-A. With Louisville, he went 6-2 in 39 relief appearances, posting a 3.24 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP, while striking out 57 batters and walking just 18 in 58.1 innings.
It’s not unusual for relievers, especially, to develop later in their careers. At 28 years old in 2025, Legumina has only thrown 22 major league innings, most of which have been unproductive. However, Seattle saw potential in him, as did the Reds when they originally brought him in. If he returns to the majors, Seattle’s ballpark could be a more favorable environment for him.
