Reds reportedly willing to trade Jonathan India under these circumstances

These latest Reds rumors will not sit well with most of the Cincinnati faithful. According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, the Cincinnati Reds are willing to trade Jonathan India before next week's deadline.

Feinsand reports that Cincinnati is focused on dealing India in the event they're able to receive young, controllable starting pitching in return.

To a certain extent, these Reds rumors are not all that surprising. Cincinnati has added a ton of infield talent this season. With players like Matt McLain, Elly De La Cruz, Spencer Steer, and Christian Encarnacion-Strand now on the active roster, India has become expendable.

Reds rumors: Cincinnati willing to trade Jonathan India for pitching.

Prior to the All-Star break, Jonathan India was mired in a horrific slump. The 2021 NL Rookie of the Year was hitting .201/.294/.389 from June 1st through July 9th. But after the Midsummer Classic, India is hitting .265/.324/.412.

India has been the heartbeat for this year's Reds team, so it's rather shocking that Cincinnati's front office would be willing to shakeup the clubhouse chemistry while the club is within striking distance of the NL Central-leading Milwaukee Brewers.

Yes, the Cincinnati Reds could use another pitcher or two at this year's trade deadline. But with Nick Lodolo and Hunter Greene due back in the near future, is it that critical to upgrade the rotation while sacrificing the heart and soul of this Reds team?

This seems like a trade that would be better served to take place in the offseason. Despite his 98 OPS+ and below-average defense, Jonathan India certainly provides a level of unmatched leadership and tenacity. Those types of things are important for such a young team like the Reds.

Stay tuned, as these are unlikely to be the last Reds rumors involving India. There are some contending teams that could surely use an upgrade at the keystone, and those clubs may be willing to pay the high asking price Cincinnati's front office is requiring in return.