The Cincinnati Reds have acquired left-handed reliever Brock Burke from the Los Angeles Angels as part of a three-team trade that sends outfielder Gavin Lux to the Tampa Bay Rays. The deal, finalized recently, also involves the Angels receiving outfielder Josh Lowe from Tampa Bay. Alongside Lux, Angels pitcher Chris Clark is moving to the Rays.
Burke’s Career and Season Performance
Brock Burke, 29, completed the 2025 season with solid numbers, posting a 3.36 ERA and a 1.23 WHIP over 61 innings pitched for the Angels. He recorded 52 strikeouts while allowing 58 hits during that span. Over his Major League Baseball career, which includes time with the Texas Rangers, Burke has appeared in 214 games with a cumulative 3.88 ERA. Earlier this month, he signed a one-year contract with the Angels, making him a free agent at the end of this season.
Reds Strengthen Their Bullpen Ahead of Upcoming Season
This offseason, the Reds have actively bolstered their bullpen depth, adding Burke to a group that includes lefty Caleb Ferguson, right-hander Pierce Johnson, and returning closer Emilio Pagan. Manager Terry Francona emphasized the value of a strong bullpen in a recent interview, saying,
“When you’re deeper, you have a chance to win maybe every night.”
He also noted,
“Now, all of a sudden, you have a game where it’s 4-2, you’re losing — but you have a chance to win because your bullpen keeps you in it.”
Outlook on Additional Offseason Moves
While Cincinnati has not yet secured a prominent hitter after missing out on Kyle Schwarber, a native of Middletown, it’s uncertain if the team is still pursuing a big bat. Francona acknowledged the front office’s continuous efforts: he expressed confidence that they are “always trying to get better” as the Reds prepare for the upcoming season.
