Newly surfaced Royals' aspirations could force Reds to move familiar trade target

Jonathan India is no stranger to trade rumors, and it's quite likely that this offseason will be no different for the Cincinnati Reds second baseman. In fact, one publication is already tabbing India as a trade candidate join an American League contender this offseason.

The Kansas City Royals are looking to score more runs in 2025 — who isn't, right? But The Athletic (subscription required) believes that one of India or perhaps even Spencer Steer could be sent to Kansas City as the Royals look to bolster their lineup next season.

Would the Reds trade Jonathan India or Spencer Steer to the KC Royals?

India and Steer are in a similar boat. Both are players without a position. The infield pair, particularly Steer, have been shuffled all over the field. Steer saw a lot of time in the outfield last season, but has also played first, second, and third base. India spent most of the 2024 season as the Reds second baseman last season, but there were preseason plans to move India to the outfield as well.

The Reds' infield is still quite crowded, and if both Steer and India remain, Terry Francona will have his hands full trying to allocate playing time to Elly De La Cruz, Noelvi Marte, Matt McLain, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Jeimer Candelario.

Reds fans better buckle up, because India's name will be brought up early and often. India is under contract through next season, but still has a year of arbitration eligibility beyond that. Dealing the Silver Slugger Award finalist this offseason would give the opposing squad two years worth of India before he hit free agency.

The Athletic mentioned that if the Royals entertain the trade market this offseason, pitchers Kris Bubic and Alec Marsh could be made available. The Reds could use some added pitching depth with Julian Aguiar and Brandon Williamson already slated to miss next season due to injury.

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