Sonny Gray trade rumors: Reds could get an epic haul from the Angels

Could the Reds swing a deal for Brandon Marsh?

If the Cincinnati Reds were able to pry away Brandon Marsh from the Los Angeles Angels, sign me up all day, every day. Marsh is a major league-ready outfielder who checks every box. Yes, I’m aware that the Cincinnati outfield is currently overcrowded, but there are other avenues the Reds could take to remedy that situation. If Marsh is available, Gray is as good as gone.

Marsh is a former second-round pick and potential five-tool player. When you think of Marsh, think of former Reds prospect Jay Bruce. Marsh has the arm and speed to play center field, but could find a spot anywhere in the outfield.

While Cincinnati’s outfield may seem set for now, there’s actually a lot of question marks. Nick Castellanos’ start to the 2020 season was impressive, but he fizzled down the stretch. Castellanos also has the potential to enter the free agent market next winter if he opts out of his current deal.

Shogo Akiyama showed flashes down the stretch, but his first season in the majors did not go was expected. Jesse Winker caught fire during the middle of the abbreviated season, but hit just .104 during the month of September. And then there’s Nick Senzel, who’s yet to prove that he can stay healthy.

A straight swap of Marsh for Gray might seem odd at first, but gaining control of a potential cornerstone for the franchise would be too good to pass up. As for the Angels, with the current outfield trio of Mike Trout, Jo Adell, and Justin Upton, it’s going to be tough for Marsh to break into the starting lineup.