"I got the impression that the Reds hold little hope of re-signing Francisco Cordero. The way the closer market has settled, the Reds might be able to get Cordero back at one-year deal in the $7 million range.

But I wouldn't even do that. I'd stay in house. Try Bill Bray first. If he doesn't work out, turn to Sam LeCure or Jose Arredondo or Brad Boxberger.

Another possible candidate? Edinson Volquez. He's long shot for the rotation at this point. He's throws 97 and has a great change-up. That could work in the ninth inning.

–With Cordero likely gone, the Reds will have three picks in the top 50 of next year's draft. That's a very good thing, especially now there's pretty much a cap on what bonuses can be."