Blue Jays' pursuit of Juan Soto could have domino effect that would benefit the Reds

As unlikely as it may seem, the Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly the frontrunner for Juan Soto, at least as far as money goes. Before our neighbors to the north get too excited, we must remember that Toronto also seemed a possible destination for Shohei Ohtani last winter. Still, if the Jays do land the biggest free-agent fish, the move could trickle down to benefit the Cincinnati Reds.

One major reason Soto may balk at the Blue Jays’ bucks is the impending free agency of their two young stars: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette. Both are set to hit the open market next winter. If Toronto really wants to land Soto, extensions for these two will be a significant bargaining chip. However, if the Blue Jays lock in Vlad Jr. long-term, standout rookie Spencer Horwitz may become expendable, much to Cincinnati’s delight.

Blue Jays' pursuit of Juan Soto could have domino effect that would benefit the Reds

After a cup of coffee in 2023, Horwitz proved himself capable of handling the bat at the big league level in 2024. His .265/.357/.433 stat line ranked behind only Guerrero among Jays players with at least 350 plate appearances. His patience at the plate would greatly benefit a Reds club that ranked fourth-worst in the NL in on-base percentage.

Horwitz has been forced into an uncomfortable fit at second base due to Guerrero’s presence, and top prospects Will Wagner and Orelvis Martinez more easily fit into the Jays’ infield. Horwitz would benefit from regular games at first, and the Reds are desperately in need of a competent, productive first baseman.

Horwitz won’t even hit arbitration until 2028, giving the Reds multiple team-friendly years that are crucial for a small-market budget. Cincinnati has been collecting solid, if unheralded, young players, and Horwitz would fit right in with that mold.

The only knock on the young first baseman is his struggles against lefties. Among NL teams, the Reds already had the worst batting average against southpaws. Horwitz has always struggled in lefty-lefty matchups, which could limit him to a platoon role if he does not improve.

Still, Horwitz could be a low-cost, high-reward trade candidate for the Reds if the Blue Jays make some big-time moves.

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