Reds Signing Mike Moustakas Likely Takes Didi Gregorius Destination off Board

The Cincinnati Reds inked infielder Mike Moustakas to a four-year, $64 million deal on Monday. This indicates that the team is finally beginning to take significant steps towards contending in the NL Central.

That said, the Moustakas signing means they might not be able to sign another infielder who is currently on the open market -- Didi Gregorius.

Cincinnati was reportedly interested in the free agent shortstop less than a month ago, and while they may have the money to sign him, a number of factors could convince them to avoid the move.

Now that Moustakas is off the market, Gregorius' services are going to be in higher demand. Other teams could potentially up their offers for the 29-year-old, preventing the Reds from getting him at a cheaper price.

There are several ball clubs that would benefit from signing Gregorius, who is perhaps a player the Reds don't want to get in a bidding war over considering they still have needs elsewhere on the roster. They still need bullpen help and their outfield is a bit suspect. Is Jesse Winker truly good? Can Nick Senzel take the next step in 2020? Will Aristedes Aquino continue his home run tear?

While it's not totally outside of the realm of possibility, all of these things lead us to believe that Cincinnati is no longer a prime destination for Gregorius.