Trading Elly De La Cruz could be the Reds’ fastest path to contention

Blog Red Machine's Drew Koch argues that the Cincinnati Reds' fastest path to becoming contenders is trading All-Star shortstop Elly De La Cruz. Citing the Milwaukee Brewers' model of trading stars like Corbin Burnes and Josh Hader to restock talent, Koch suggests Cincinnati cannot afford De La Cruz's projected massive contract. Former Reds star Joey Votto also stated on Foul Territory that he would trade De La Cruz for prospects rather than commit a massive payroll percentage to one player.

Koch contends the Reds failed to build a winning core around De La Cruz during his pre-arbitration window, finishing in the NL Central basement in 2026. While a trade this winter is deemed unlikely due to an impending lockout, Koch predicts the front office may look to trade the superstar by the 2027 deadline or during the 2027-28 offseason to maximize his return value.