What happened: The Cleveland Guardians could target Cincinnati Reds corner infielder Spencer Steer to address their struggles against left-handed pitching. Steer remains under arbitration control through 2028 and grades as a plus defender at first base. A move would allow Cleveland to replace David Fry with a specialized short-side platoon bat.
Why it matters: Cincinnati sits eight games below .500 and may be motivated to deal the 28-year-old for minor-league prospects. Right-handed hitters who reliably hit southpaws remain scarce across the league, likely inflating his acquisition cost. Cleveland possesses enough upper-level minor-league talent to easily assemble a competitive package.
By the numbers: Steer carries a career 184 wRC+ against left-handed pitchers and has produced +13 Defensive Runs Saved at first base. Fry has posted an 85 wRC+ against southpaws since June 2024, while the Guardians hold a 48-42 record.
What to watch: Cleveland will also consider smaller deadline moves, which could involve trading Bo Naylor for an undervalued reliever by August 3.