The MLB trade deadline always sparks wild rumors, but this summer, one potential move could truly alter the National League landscape.
The Cincinnati Reds, currently walking the tightrope between buying and selling, are reportedly eyeing Atlanta Braves slugger Marcell Ozuna—a $65 million power hitter whose bat could reignite Cincinnati’s postseason ambitions.
With the Braves exploring ways to create roster flexibility and the Reds in desperate need of a reliable middle-of-the-order threat, a deal involving Ozuna and a package of Reds prospects has gone from unlikely to entirely feasible.
Ozuna’s Value to the Reds
Since joining Atlanta, Marcell Ozuna has consistently brought power to their lineup. In 2025, he’s continued to produce with 12 home runs, 41 RBIs, and a .236 average over 88 games heading into mid-July.
Although his numbers are down slightly from his standout All-Star seasons in 2023 and 2024, his advanced metrics—like a nearly 50% hard-hit rate and a 91+ mph average exit velocity—prove his elite bat speed and pop remain intact.
For a Reds team that ranks near the bottom in outfield OPS, his presence could be a difference-maker.
Ozuna is in the final stretch of a five-year, $80 million contract that runs through the 2025 season, with roughly $65 million left on the books including incentives.
While a hefty commitment, Cincinnati has room in the budget—and a clear need—for a proven power bat.
Injuries and inconsistency have plagued their outfield all season, and without a true home run threat, their playoff push has lacked muscle.
Why the Braves Might Move On
The Braves, perennial postseason contenders, face a challenging 2025. Injuries and underperformance have thinned their offensive depth.
Though Ozuna has anchored the DH spot, the rise of younger, more versatile players—combined with a need for more pitching—could push Atlanta to shop his contract.
The Braves have a track record of aggressive, forward-thinking moves, especially when aiming to reload for October.
On the other side, Cincinnati’s front office, led by veteran manager Terry Francona, is reportedly leaning into a buyer’s mindset.
Just a few games out of a Wild Card spot, the Reds boast a promising young core and a solid pitching staff.
But their offensive struggles, particularly in the outfield and at first base, have limited their upside.
Adding a seasoned bat like Ozuna’s could be the spark they’ve been missing.
For Atlanta, parting ways with Ozuna isn’t easy, but with his contract set to expire after the season, the move could help the club regroup.
Trading him now opens up payroll space and brings in controllable talent—two key assets as they try to stay competitive while planning for the future.
Marcell Ozuna
Proposed Trade Breakdown
Here’s a realistic version of what a Reds-Braves deal for Ozuna might include:
Cincinnati Reds receive:
• Marcell Ozuna
• Cash considerations (to offset 2025 salary)
Atlanta Braves receive:
• Noelvi Marte
• Nick Martinez
• Sal Stewart
The Reds would gain a veteran slugger who instantly upgrades their DH spot and brings much-needed power to their lineup.
Placing Ozuna behind hitters like Elly De La Cruz and Jeimer Candelario creates a more dangerous middle of the order.
The cash considerations help soften the financial impact, making the deal easier for Cincinnati to stomach.
For the Braves, this is a meaningful return. Marte is a former top-30 prospect with the athleticism and versatility to cover multiple infield positions—exactly what Atlanta needs amid roster injuries.
Martinez gives the team a reliable, flexible arm who can slot into the rotation or bullpen.
Stewart, a young third baseman with offensive upside, adds long-term value to their farm system.
A Move That Serves Both Timelines
For the Reds, acquiring Ozuna sends a strong signal: they’re serious about contending in 2025 and beyond.
His power complements their speed-first lineup and gives them the kind of run-producing bat that wins October games.
Atlanta, meanwhile, strengthens its long-term foundation.
The combination of near-ready prospects and financial flexibility could pay major dividends in the offseason—especially as they look to extend core players and reinforce weak spots.
Marcell Ozuna
In a deadline landscape full of speculation, this proposed Reds-Braves swap stands out.
It addresses immediate needs for both franchises while creating new possibilities for the rest of the season.
As the calendar ticks toward the deadline, this is the kind of swing-for-the-fences move that could shape the National League’s playoff picture—and maybe even define October baseball.
