Reds reportedly discussing Jonathan India trade with upstart AL team

You knew it was only a matter of time before Jonathan India's name came up in trade discussions, and it appears that the Kansas City Royals have emerged as a prime suitor for the Cincinnati Reds second baseman.

According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Reds and Royals are discussing a trade package centered around India and Kansas City starter Brady Singer. India was a popular trade target last offseason and at the 2024 MLB trade deadline, so it comes as no surprise that his name has popped up once again in trade dicussions this offseason.

According to Rosenthal, India is one of several hitters the Royals are pursuing, though the MLB insider did not suggest that their other targets were part of Cincinnati's roster. With Rule 5 Draft protections and the non-tender deadline on the docket next week, it wouldn't be surprising to see this trade come together rather quickly. A lot of roster turnover is expected in the next seven days, and both the Reds and Royals will looking to make a number moves.

Reds-Royals reportedly discussing Jonathan India-Brady Singer trade

India had a fine season for the Reds and is owed $5.5 million next season. The 2021 NL Rookie of the Year posted a .750 OPS in 2024 with 15 home runs and saw his defense improve as Cincinnati's primary second baseman last season. But with Matt McLain proving to be healthy while playing in the Arizona Fall League, many MLB experts expect the young infielder to supplant India at the keystone in 2025.

Singer had a fine season for KC in 2024. The former first-round pick was 9-13 with a 3.71 ERA and 170 punch outs in 32 starts. For his career, the 27-year-old is 36-44 with a 4.28 ERA. Singer has been quite durable, starting 25 or more games the past four seasons for the Royals.

Rosenthal is reporting that as of Saturday a deal wasn't close. It's not clear if it would be a straight one-for-one swap or if other players could be involved. Singer is estimated to take home $8.8 million through arbitration in 2025 and would be under team control through 2026.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors