BREAKING: Cincinnati Reds confirms departure for right-handed reliever shortly after signing free agent outfielder Austin Hays

The Cincinnati Reds have finalized a deal to send right-handed reliever Casey Legumina to the Seattle Mariners. While the term “trade” is commonly used in baseball, this transaction was more of a sale, as Cincinnati received cash considerations in return for Legumina’s rights.

Legumina was designated for assignment last week when the Reds needed to clear a 40-man roster spot after signing free-agent outfielder Austin Hays. Instead of waiting to see if he would clear waivers, Seattle opted to offer the Reds a small, undisclosed cash amount to acquire him directly, avoiding the risk of another team claiming him first.

Over the past two seasons, Legumina frequently moved between Triple-A Louisville and Cincinnati, filling in as needed. In 2023, he appeared in 11 games for the Reds, posting a 5.68 ERA while allowing 21 baserunners in 12.2 innings. Last season, he pitched in six games, struggling with an 8.68 ERA and 18 baserunners allowed over 9.1 innings. Despite his struggles in the majors, he performed well in Triple-A last year, recording a 6-2 record with a 3.24 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 57 strikeouts, and 18 walks across 58.1 innings.

It’s not uncommon for relievers to develop later in their careers, and at 28 in 2025, Legumina still has time to improve. Though his brief major league outings have been rough, both the Reds and Mariners saw potential in him. If he returns to the majors, Seattle’s more pitcher-friendly ballpark could provide a better environment for him to succeed.