Reds rumors spark blockbuster pursuit that could sideline trusted Cincinnati regular

The Cincinnati Reds missed out on their big-ticket item at this year's MLB Winter Meetings. Kyle Schwarber decided to return to the Philadelphia Phillies on a five-year, $150 million deal. While the Reds were in the ballpark — reportedly offering Schwarber a five-year, $125 million contract — the slugger ultimately turned them down and is headed back to Philly.

But the Reds have not been deterred and are reportedly looking at the trade market in order to bolster the team's lineup. Recent Reds rumors revealed that Cincinnati has interest in both Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Ketel Marte and Tampa Bay infielder Brandon Lowe.

These Reds rumors have brought about a timely question, however. Where does that put Matt McLain? Have the Reds lost faith in the former first-round pick after his down-year in 2025? Will he change positions next season if the Reds swing a deal for new second baseman? Are there plans to trade McLain if one of Marte or Lowe winds up in Cincinnati? These are all very good questions, and would need to be addressed if the Reds did indeed pull off a blockbuster trade.

Reds Rumors: Interest in Ketel Marte and Brandon Lowe raises questions about Matt McLain's future in Cincinnati

McLain was supposed to be a key cog in the Reds lineup last season, but the 26-year-old struggled mightily. In fact, one could argue that his lack of performance in 2025 is one the biggest reasons Cincinnati is seeking some offensive help this offseason. After posting a .290/.357/.507 slash line during his rookie season in 2023, McLain hit just .220/.300/.343 last year.

To make matters worse, the Reds foolishly kept McLain on the active roster all season — despite several occasions when they would've been justified in demoting him to the minor leagues — and as a result, he qualified for Super Two status and will receive a nice bump in pay heading into 2026. Most assume he'll make a little more than $2 million through the arbitration process.

McLain's glove-work at second base is objectively better than both Marte's and Lowe's, but his bat severely lagged behind last season. The Reds rumors linking Cincinnati to the top two second baseman on the trade market says a lot about their faith in McLain, doesn't it?

It's possible that McLain could be used as leverage in these negotiations. Neither the D-backs nor the Rays can afford to trade Marte or Lowe without getting something back in return, and perhaps McLain will be part of a deal. His college experience in center field could provide the Reds with an out if they plan to keep McLain on the roster, but he's yet to play the position as a professional.

The Reds are also said to be exploring the free agent market, and if they score a big-bat there, it likely won't be a second baseman. After their favorite team finally made it back to the playoffs in 2025, Reds fans just want to see some action this offseason. Outside of re-signing Emilio Pagán — which was an important step — Cincinnati's front office has been rather quiet.

Trading for Marte or Lowe could open up a number of possibilities this offseason, not the least of which is moving on from McLain.