REDS, ROCKIES SWAP FOUR
The Cincinnati Reds acquired pitchers Jeff Hoffman and Case Williams from the Colorado Rockies for pitcher Robert Stephenson and outfielder Jameson Hannah.
What does it give the Colorado Rockies
Hoffman was a starter previously for the Rockies, but he spent all of last season as a reliever. With Cincinnati, he will likely be used in relief (or possibly as a swingman/opener). As for Williams, he was just drafted in the fourth round this season so he has a long road ahead of him. He does have intriguing upside.
What does it give the Cincinnati Reds
Like Hoffman, Stephenson is a former starter who pitched in relief in 2020. He has better stuff than the player he was traded for but lacks polish and consistency in MLB. Expect him to be tried as a short reliever in Denver. Hannah was originally drafted by Oakland after being selected in Round 2 in 2018.
Fantasy impact
None of the four players dealt here are automatic draft options in any league format. That said, all four should be on the keeper radar. As for year-to-year leagues, take a wait-and-see approach on both Hoffman and Stephenson, at least until their roles are defined with their respective new clubs.
