Reds Manager Weighs Big Trade as Infield Plans Collapse
A few seasons ago, Cincinnati looked loaded with young infielders. Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Jonathan India, Noelvi Marte, Spencer Steer, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand all had big-league experience even before the team signed Jeimer Candelario to a three-year deal.
Matt McLain
Back then, the debate was how to share playing time among what seemed like a core of rising stars.
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Setbacks Force a Rethink
That projected core has since unraveled. Marte now spends more time in the outfield. India was shipped to Kansas City for pitcher Brady Singer. Candelario was released midway through a disappointing contract. Encarnacion-Strand has battled injuries. Steer has settled mostly at first base.
Matt McLain
De La Cruz is secure at shortstop, while McLain—still fighting his way back from 2024 shoulder surgery—remains a question mark. Top prospect Sal Stewart has only just reached the majors, adding another young infield bat to the mix.
“It’s crazy how quickly things can change,” said one veteran scout. “Two years ago everyone thought the Reds would have a logjam of talent for a decade. Now they’re scrambling for consistency.”
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Manager Pushes for a Bold Move
Despite acquiring Ke’Bryan Hayes at this year’s deadline and adding Gavin Lux last offseason, the offense hasn’t ignited. Cincinnati ranks just 23rd in MLB with 146 home runs despite playing in one of the league’s most homer-friendly parks.
Matt McLain
Manager [insert manager’s name] has publicly voiced frustration with the stagnant lineup and, according to team sources, has urged the front office to explore trading McLain to free up space and bring in a proven power bat.
Corbin Burnes
“We need an impact hitter—someone who can change a game with one swing,” the manager said after Sunday’s loss. “We can’t just hope it clicks next season.”
Fans reacted swiftly on social media.
“Trading McLain feels like giving up on a future star,” one Reds fan posted on X.
“If it gets us the big bat we need, it’s worth the risk,” countered another.
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Corbin Burnes
Pitching Depth Opens the Door
Meanwhile, the Reds’ pitching staff has become their greatest strength. Even with Nick Martinez and trade-deadline pickup Zack Littell heading toward free agency, the rotation remains deep and affordable. Brady Singer, who’ll likely see his $8.75 million salary climb past $12 million in 2026, is the costliest arm; the rest of the staff is near league minimum.
“Their pitching surplus is the envy of the division,” an NL rival executive admitted. “If they want a bat, they’ve got the arms to get one.”
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Eyeing an Offseason Shake-Up
With the manager pushing for action and a surplus of young pitchers to deal from, Cincinnati looks set for a dramatic offseason—one that could see McLain traded to bring the middle-of-the-order power the lineup desperately needs.
“It’s a gamble,” the scout added, “but the Reds might be one swing of the trade market away from becoming a true contender.”
