Cincinnati Reds: Outfielders most likely to be traded if Marcell Ozuna signs

ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - OCTOBER 07: Marcell Ozuna #23 of the St. Louis Cardinals hits his second solo home run of the game, against the Atlanta Braves during the fourth inning in game four of the National League Division Series at Busch Stadium on October 07, 2019 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Scott Kane/Getty Images)
ST LOUIS, MISSOURI - OCTOBER 07: Marcell Ozuna #23 of the St. Louis Cardinals hits his second solo home run of the game, against the Atlanta Braves during the fourth inning in game four of the National League Division Series at Busch Stadium on October 07, 2019 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Scott Kane/Getty Images)
6 of 6
Cincinnati Reds
CINCINNATI, OHIO – JUNE 19: Jesse Winker #33 of the Cincinnati Reds hits a game winning RBI single in the 9th inning against the Houston Astros at Great American Ball Park on June 19, 2019 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

1. Jesse Winker

If the Cincinnati Reds signed Marcell Ozuna, Jesse Winker becomes the most likely player on the roster to be dealt. Following Aristides Aquino’s breakout performance in 2019, Winker’s already on shaky ground. While he an Aquino could form a platoon in right field next season, he may offer more value for the club if he were traded.

Now, Winker is not going to bring the same level of return that Nick Senzel would, but the New York native would still bring some quality players, perhaps an additional bullpen arm or two. Winker is loaded with potential, but his inability to hit against left-handed pitching and lack of speed are a bit concerning, as is his ability to stay healthy.

Winker gets on base, which is something of great value in today’s game. He also has power from the left side, another essential trait that would make opposing GMs drool. One might question if Jesse Winker would thrive as a designated hitter in the American League. While his defense is not terrible, according to FanGraphs, he had a -3 defensive runs scored last season.

If Ozuna is signed by the Reds, Winker essentially becomes a platoon player in right field. While that may not be the worst use of his talents, Winker has the ability to be an everyday player and another team desperate for a left-handed bat may be willing to make a deal.

Chances Jesse Winker is traded if the Reds sign Marcell Ozuna: 70%

Schedule