MLB Trade Rumors has posted its Needs and Luxuries report on the Reds. Not surprisingly, the report states that starting pitching is the biggest need. Tim argues the Reds really need another front of the rotation starter, not another re-tread like Jon Lieber or Brett Tomko, if the Reds want to make the playoffs. He advocates trading Bruce for Bedard (if the O's would take that offer). Given the outrageous demands the O's have been making for Bedard, I doubt they'd trade him straight up for Bruce, although I think the Reds would have to make that deal if the O's agreed. Otherwise, I think the Reds are better off playing the odds that between Belisle, Bailey, Cueto, Volquez, and Maloney, at least one or two of those guys will become above average starters.

I would note that Jonathan Mayo makes a convincing argument that the Reds shouldn't even trade Bruce for Bedard.