Cincinnati Reds: 4 possible trade packages for Sonny Gray

4. The Reds get a haul from the Red Sox.

Boston Red Sox were an utter disaster last season, finishing last in the American League East Division. However, the Sox have re-grouped this winter, re-hiring former manager Alex Cora and focusing on a return to the postseason in 2021. The Red Sox will need to improve their starting rotation, and Sonny Gray could help them do that.

Boston’s best starter in 2020 was Nathan Eovaldi, a player they overpaid two years ago after the right-hander heroically helped the Red Sox win the World Championship in 2019. Following Boston’s trade of Mookie Betts last offseason, it would appear that the Red Sox might be in the market for a starter who’s not going to break the bank.

If the Cincinnati Reds intend to trade Sonny Gray, they need to boost the farm system in the process. Adding talented right-hander Tanner Houck and first base prospect Triston Casas would do just that. Both are in Top 10 prospects within the Red Sox farm system according to MLB Pipeline. Cincinnati needs an eventual replacement for Joey Votto and Casas fits the bill.

C.J. Chatham would also fill the Reds biggest need; a starting shortstop. Xander Bogaerts isn’t going anywhere, so Chatham is blocked at the major league level. While the former second-round can play all over the infield, his plus, plus arm would be wasted at other spots on the diamond. Chatham hit .298/.333/.408 in the minors during the 2019 season.

If Sonny Gray is indeed on the trade block, the number of teams willing to make a deal will be quite large. Gray’s under contract for two more seasons, and at $10M per, his contract is very affordable. The Reds would do well to hang onto Gray, but if the right offer came along, Cincinnati would be foolish not to listen.