In a multi-team exchange, Zack Littell is now a member of the Cincinnati Reds, as he was traded alongside other players by the Tampa Bay Rays and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Rays Trade Zack Littell to Reds in Three-Team Deal
The Tampa Bay Rays, Cincinnati Reds, and Los Angeles Dodgers have finalized a trade on July 31, 2025, that sees right-handed pitcher Zack Littell moving to the Reds.
In this three-team deal, the Reds receive Littell from the Rays, while the Rays acquire two minor league pitchers — right-hander Brian Van Belle and left-hander Adam Serwinowski — from the Reds. The Dodgers, in turn, receive Serwinowski, right-handed pitcher Paul Gervase, and catcher Ben Rortvedt from the Rays, with the Rays receiving catcher Hunter Feduccia from the Dodgers.
Zack Littell, aged 29, has been a dependable starter for the Rays this season, amassing an 8-8 record with a 3.58 ERA over 22 starts and 133 1/3 innings. He led the majors in fewest walks per nine innings (1.28), but also led the league with 26 home runs allowed. Known for his strong command, Littell's repertoire includes a 91-92 mph fastball, a splitter, and a slider with plus control.
The trade provides the Reds with a boost to their starting rotation as they vie for a playoff spot, while the Rays gain catching depth and minor-league pitching prospects to address both present and future roster needs. The Dodgers also benefit from the trade, acquiring pitching prospects and a backup catcher as part of their roster building.
Littell was informed about the trade moments before the game against the Yankees ended, and he spoke to reporters at his locker following the 5-4 loss. He expressed gratitude for the opportunities he received from the Rays and indicated that there are still some moving parts in the trade.
In his final start for the Rays, Littell faced the Reds last Friday, and he started the game against the Yankees, throwing five innings, allowing two hits, and striking out four. Garrett Cleavinger took over at the start of the sixth inning after Littell. The game was an 11-inning marathon against the Yankees.
The trade is not officially confirmed yet, as medicals are being exchanged.
[1] Rays Trade Zack Littell to Reds in Three-Team Deal
[2] Tampa Bay Rays Acquire Catcher Hunter Feduccia in Zack Littell Trade
[3] Los Angeles Dodgers Land Pitching Prospects and Catcher Ben Rortvedt in Zack Littell Trade
[4] Cincinnati Reds Bolster Starting Rotation with Acquisition of Zack Littell
[5] Zack Littell Speaks on Trade to Reds, Grateful for Opportunities with Rays
[2] The Tampa Bay Rays have acquired catcher Hunter Feduccia as part of the three-team trade that also included Zack Littell.
[4] For the Cincinnati Reds, the acquisition of Zack Littell bolsters their starting rotation as they aim to secure a playoff spot.
