Could the Angels swing a deal with the Reds for Sonny Gray?
While most fans may not like the idea, it sure sounds as though Sonny Gray will not be part of the Cincinnati Reds organization for much longer. For the past couple weeks, the two-time All-Star has been rumored to be on the trade block. A team in desperate need of starting pitching is the Los Angeles Angels. What could the Reds get in return if they dealt Gray to LA?
According to MLB insider Jon Heyman, people around the league are convinced the Los Angeles Angels are determined to add a No. 1 starter this offseason. Among those mentioned by Heyman are Cy Young winner Trevor Bauer, Tampa Bay pitcher Blake Snell, and Reds starter Sonny Gray.
Gray’s reasonable contract (two-years/$20.2M remaining) and the lack of elite-level starting pitching on the open market have teams searching for other avenues in order to address their starting rotation. Cincinnati’s front office has been rumored to be open to trading Gray, despite the fact the Reds are already slated to lose both Bauer and Anthony DeSclafani.
Still, Cincinnati’s starting rotation is the team’s strength. Aside from Gray, the Reds have Luis Castillo and Tyler Mahle slotted in next year’s starting rotation. Wade Miley, who was injured throughout most of 2020 will also be in the mix. And, the Reds will likely turn to Michael Lorenzen, who performed admirably in two starts last season.
Furthermore, the Cincinnati Reds have some talented arms in their farm system. Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, and Tony Santillan are thought to be on the cusp of making their major league debuts. If Cincinnati were to trade Gray to Los Angeles, what kind of haul might the Reds receive in return?