Cincinnati Reds: Three possible trade scenarios if Marcell Ozuna signs

1. Reds complete blockbuster deal for Francisco Lindor

If Marcell Ozuna does sign with Cincinnati, the Reds will have filled virtually every hole on the roster except one – shortstop. If the season started today, Freddy Galvis, a serviceable major league shortstop, would likely take the majority of reps at the position. However, Francisco Lindor is a four-time All-Star and the Reds should shell out to bring Mr. Smile to the Queen City.

Lindor will not come cheap. In fact, it’ll likely cost Cincinnati one or two of their top young players. With Cleveland having dealt Trevor Bauer and Corey Kluber over the past year, it appears the Tribe is looking to rebuild. The Reds have several young players that may fit the Indians timeline, with Nick Senzel being the most likely player to be included in a deal for Lindor.

So, what might a trade for Francisco Lindor look like? Well, one can assume that if the Reds ink Marcell Ozuna to a deal, Shogo Akiyama will become the primary center fielder for Cincinnati next season. The Japanese outfielder reportedly agreed to terms with the Reds earlier this week. That signing makes Nick Senzel expendable.

With a starting outfield of Ozuna, Akiyama, and Aristides Aquino, the Reds have a formidable lineup. Add to that the bats of Joey Votto, Mike Moustakas, Eugenio Suárez, and Lindor and Cincinnati doesn’t really have a single hole in their lineup. Sacrificing Senzel and a couple prospects may be enough to snag Lindor away from Cleveland.