Nick Krall's latest comments reveal why Reds are so closely linked to White Sox star

The Cincinnati Reds have been linked to Chicago White Sox pitcher Garrett Crochet, and with good reason. The lefty was one of the best starters in Major League Baseball last season, and with an estimated salary of less than $3 million and two years of team control remaining, the White Sox's phone has been ringing off the hook with potential suitors looking to land Crochet this offseason.

However, another White Sox star could also be on the move this winter, and the Reds are rumored to have interest in him as well. Luis Robert Jr., Chicago's starting centerfielder, is on the trade block. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer's Gordon Wittenmyer, the Reds have "checked in" on Robert and the club could undoubtedly use his bat in the lineup.

Nick Krall's latest comments reveal why Reds are closely linked to White Sox star Luis Robert Jr.

Robert would be a terrific addition, and based on Nick Krall's recent comments during the MLB Winter Meetings, may be one of the few trade candidates that would actually fit in the Reds' plans. Krall spoke with reporters on Tuesday in Dallas, and revealed that Cincinnati has entertained more trades than they have free agents, but there's a caveat — most teams are looking for big league players.

“You’ll find it’s a lot of major league for major league (players in talks),” Krall said. “If you fill one hole, you’ve got to figure out how to backfill this one. It’s been a lot of conversations.” As Cincinnati beat reporter Charlie Goldsmith correctly points out, there are likely only two teams who are targeting prospects — the White Sox and Miami Marlins.

So if the Reds, who are loaded with a ton of prospect capital, are looking to move some of their top young talent, only a handful of teams might be willing to play ball. And if that's truly how the market is unfolding, Robert could be the Reds' best option given Cincinnati's strategy.

Robert is owed $15 million in 2025 and has a $20 million team-option for 2026 and 2027 with a $2 million buyout. Given Robert's contract, he'd likely command less of a return than Crochet, but the White Sox are reportedly seeking a big return for the 27-year-old.

Cincinnati needs a right-handed hitting outfielder with power. In 2023, Robert hit .264/.315/.542 with 38 home runs and was in the AL MVP conversation. But a hip injury sidelined Robert for 60-plus games last season. If he's fully healthy, this is certainly a trade the Reds should consider.

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