MLB insider's compelling Reds-White Sox blockbuster trade proposal is hard to refute

While the Cincinnati Reds whiffed on Jurickson Profar, who might have been the best realistic free agent signing for the club, hope still remains for the team to improve its outfield. However, the Reds may need to shift onto the trade market to do so. It’s time for Cincinnati to make good use of their deep farm system and bring in Luis Robert Jr.

The Reds and Robert have been linked in rumors and proposals for the past several months, and MLB insider Jim Bowden of The Athletic (subscription required) just named the swap a must-do move before Spring Training. Robert’s power-speed combo fits Cincy’s style, and the Reds have prospect depth that would greatly benefit the Chicago White Sox, who will graduate many of their top prospects this season.

The Reds need to make a move for Luis Robert Jr. before the outfield market shrinks further

Robert, of course, does not come without risks. He has only played more than 100 games once in his career, and he is coming off a career-worst season. There is hope for a bounce-back campaign in 2025. 

Robert’s worst seasons (2022 and 2024) share striking similarities. In both years, he substantially increased his ground-ball rate and pulled the ball less often. Those were also the seasons most plagued by injuries and inconsistent playing time. Shifting to the hitter-friendly atmosphere of Great American Ball Park could reinvigorate Robert, who could easily put up 30-plus homers if he stays healthy.

Imagine the dramatic steals and daring sprints that Robert would produce alongside Elly De La Cruz. Consider the former Gold Glove Award-winner patrolling the outfield grass. Adding those skills would be enough to shift TJ Friedl to left and Steer, who has a strong arm, to right. This would free up a bench spot since right field would no longer have to be a platoon pair. All major pluses.

The two barriers to this trade, though, may be substantial. Robert is due to be paid $15 million this season and $20 million for each of the next two via club options. This contract has shades of the Jeimer Candelario deal, and if Robert is a bust, the budget-friendly Reds could be in bad shape.

The White Sox also would likely be asking for a lot in return. Chicago has few legit prospects in the lower levels, so they may be eyeing Cam Collier or Edwin Arroyo as the centerpiece of the trade. The Reds have a tendency to dole out their prospects sparingly, which could kill this deal before it even gets rolling.

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