Reds could explore a trade with Astros even after Kyle Tucker miss

Only Nick Krall and other executives know whether or not the Cincinnati Reds were even in the conversation to trade for superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker. The Reds were never directly linked to Tucker, but based on the pure need for an outfield bat, it would be shocking to find out that Cincy's front office didn't even call Houston Astros GM Dana Brown.

The Reds will get to see plenty of Tucker next season, but unfortunately those at-bats will be coming as a member of the Chicago Cubs. The North Siders looked to solidify their spot atop the NL Central heading into next season after acquiring Tucker from the Astros this past week.

Reds could explore a trade for Astros' Chas McCormick even after missing out on Kyle Tucker

But perhaps there's another Astros player who could help Cincinnati's pursuit to upgrade their outfield in 2025. Chas McCormick had a down-year in Houston, which included a demotion to Triple-A Sugar Land, but for his career has crushed left-handed pitching and plays above-average defense. That sounds like a pair of traits that Krall and Co. could get exicted about.

McCormick struggled with injuries in 2024 and only appeared in 94 games. The 29-year-old hit .211/.271/.306 with five home runs and 27 RBI. But in his prior three seasons, McCormick posted a .259/.336/.449 slash line and averaged 17 homers.

Furthermore, McCormick has consistently mashed against a southpaws. Even after a horrific showing in 2024, McCormick still owns a career .864 OPS and 142 wRC+ against left-handed pitching. Moreover, McCormick has 15 defensive runs saved (DRS) and 27 outs above average (OAA) during his four-year career while playing all three outfield spots.

McCormick could be the perfect platoon partner for Jake Fraley in right field. He has two years of team control remaining, and is only estimated to take home $3.3 million through arbitration next season. The Pennsylvania native also has minor-league options remaining and wouldn't cost an arm and leg in terms of prospect capital.

Krall has noted that teams are rather unwilling to trade for prospects this offseason and are searching for major league-caliber talent instead. Perhaps a package built around Connor Phillips would help get a deal done for McCormick. Much like McCormick, Phillips experienced a down-year in 2024. Maybe both players could use a change of scenery.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors