Reds should revisit offseason trade talks in wake of Tyler Stephenson's injury

For nearly a decade, Tyler Stephenson has been a cornerstone of the Cincinnati Reds’ future. Drafted in the first round of the 2015 MLB Draft, Stephenson steadily developed into a reliable bat and a versatile defender—holding down duties behind the plate. Heading into 2025, he was positioned for a breakout campaign.

Then came an untimely injury. A left oblique strain has sidelined Stephenson, leaving a significant void—not only defensively, but in the middle of Cincinnati’s lineup.

For a Reds team entering a boom period, armed with offensive firepower and a deep farm system, this injury presents an early-season challenge. But it also offers an opportunity. If the Reds are serious about competing for a playoff spot in 2025, it might be time to revisit some unfinished business.

Reds should revisit Luis Robert Jr. trade talks in wake of Tyler Stephenson's injury

Luis Robert Jr.’s name has been a fixture in trade rumors for several seasons, and for good reason. The 27-year-old Cuban outfielder has flashed elite talent despite playing on an absolutely horrible Chicago White Sox team. His combination of power, speed, and defense makes him an attractive piece for any contender looking to add a difference-maker.

Of course, he doesn’t fill Stephenson’s role at catcher—but that isn't the issue. The Reds still have one of baseball’s better catching duos with José Trevino and Stephenson (when healthy). Trevino, despite an injury scare earlier in camp, will be ready for Opening Day, taking over primary catching duties. Cincinnati’s outfield, however, is a much larger concern.

Right now, the trio of Jake Fraley, TJ Friedl, and Austin Hays is set to patrol the outfield with Gavin Lux more than likely splashed in. Serviceable? Yes. Championship-caliber? Not quite. That’s where Robert comes in.

When healthy, Robert has the potential to break open any game. In 2023, his lone full season, Robert slashed .264/.315/.542 with 38 home runs and 80 RBI—earning his first All-Star nod and a Silver Slugger.

However, injuries have plagued Robert's career. Across five seasons, he’s played only one full campaign. In 2024, he appeared in just 100 games, posting a disappointing .224/.278/.379 line with 14 homers and 35 RBI. But let’s be honest here, he was the lone offensive threat on a historically bad White Sox team. Plug him into a Reds lineup filled with talent, and the production could skyrocket.

Where did the negotiations between the Reds and White Sox break down the first time?

When the Reds and White Sox last engaged in talks, negotiations stalled over two key issues:

1. Prospect Package – The White Sox wanted two of the Reds top-100 prospects. Edwin Arroyo was the lone name mentioned, but one can assume that a player like Cam Collier, Sal Stewart, or even Rhett Lowder could have been part of the conversation. The Reds stood their ground.
2. Salary Coverage – Robert is under contract through 2025, with club options worth $20 million for both 2026 and 2027. The Reds wanted the White Sox to cover part of his remaining salary, a request Chicago sneezed at.

While Arroyo remains a promising talent, the Reds have several infield prospects. Moving Arroyo (and one more top prospect) for an immediate impact bat like Robert might be a necessary step if the Reds truly want to contend.

With a new manager at the helm and a fanbase eager for postseason baseball, the Reds are trending toward aggression. Meanwhile, the White Sox remain firmly in rebuild mode, shipping out established players piece by piece. If Cincinnati senses an opening to capitalize on Robert's lowered stock, they should act fast before another contender swoops in.

Stephenson’s injury hurts, but it doesn’t have to define the Reds' season. If Cincinnati wants to solidify its place among the National League’s elite, reigniting trade talks for Robert may be the bold move that'll get them there.

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