Guardians' ALDS hero hits Reds' radar as Cincy's outfield search heats up

Amidst the hectic offseason that Nick Krall and Co. are navigating, the Cincinnati Reds are actually spinning deals and have an opportunity to building a winning roster. The Reds welcomed Brady Singer to Cincinnati earlier this offseason, and it's clearly not stopping there with recent whispers that Cincinnati is interested in trading for Chicago White Sox ace Garrett Crochet.

It's no secret, however, that Cincinnati is also in the market for an outfielder. There are plenty of options, whether it'sa resurgent veteran like Jurickson Profar or a promising youngster like Wilyer Abreu. And while both Profar and Abreu would look terrfific in a Reds jersey, Cincinnati is now linked to a recent postseason hero and an All-Star infielder.

Reds rumors: Guardians' stars Lane Thomas & Josh Naylor linked to Cincy

Lane Thomas would be a great fit for the Reds, and according to Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer, the team has kicked the tires on adding the Cleveland Guardians outfielder this offseason. Thomas had been an exciting player with the Washington Nationals, and may be one of the more underrated bats in the league. Going from the Nats to the Guardians this past season, Thomas walloped 17 extra-base hits after the trade deadline and came up with some big hits during the Guards' postseason run.

The Guardians are shopping Thomas, and the Reds would be a logical trade partner. For his career, Thomas has nine home runs against Cincinnati (the second-most he's hit against any team) and has put up huge numbers at Great American Ball Park (.310/.366/.676) during his career.

In the ALDS this past year, Thomas cranked two home runs and nine RBI to help the Guardians advance to the American League Championship Series. He logged six hits in five games, including a grand slam against the AL Cy Young Award winner in Tarik Skubal.

Wittenmyer also mentioned that the Reds are interested Guardians first baseman Josh Naylor. The fit is a bit more peculiar, as Cincinnati already has Spencer Steer, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Jeimer Candelario; all of whom can play first base. That said, Naylor is patient hitter who would add a ton of pop to the Reds' lineup and has familiarity with new manager Terry Francona.

The Reds have already been active this offseason and the recent rumors surrounding Crochet, Thomas, and Naylor reveal a sense of urgency that many fans have wanted to see for years. The MLB Winter Meetings begin on Monday, and by the sound of things, the Reds will be right in the thick of several potential deals.

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