3 surprise trade candidates the Reds could deal during the 2022-23 offseason

2. Reds 2B Jonathan India could surprisingly be traded during the offseason.

Now this would certainly send Reds Country into an uproar. If Bob Castellini thought attendance was poor in 2022, trading away the 2021 National League Rookie of the Year and potential face of the franchise might make Great American Ball Park look like the Oakland Coliseum in 2023.

Jonathan India looked to be a rising star heading into 2022, but an early-season hamstring injury handicapped the second baseman's entire sophomore campaign. India was sidelined early and often last season, and the Reds are hopeful that he returns healthy when the team descends upon Goodyear, Arizona early next year.

Whether the injury affected his ability to play defense is questionable, what's not in question is the fact that India was among the worst defensive second basemen in the game last year. India ranked near the bottom of the barrel in both defensive runs saved and outs above average.

But why would the Reds even consider moving on from India? For one, his trade value has to be through the roof at the moment. While India did have some struggles in 2022, most executives would probably look past those deficiencies if it meant landing a player with India's pedigree.

The Cincinnati Reds also have several young, talented infielders who'll need a place to play in the coming years. Spencer Steer has experience at second base and former first-round pick Matt McLain is relatively close to being major league ready and could certainly play almost anywhere on the infield dirt.

Subtracting Jonathan India from the Cincinnati Reds roster would not be viewed well by the baseball pundits or the fanbase. But, if it meant that Nick Krall could add several pieces that could make a difference in 2024 and beyond, don't put it past the Reds' GM to pull the trigger on a trade.