Cincinnati Reds management is reportedly prepared to make a seismic move this offseason, with MLB insider Jim Bowden confirming the club will “absolutely” consider trade offers for superstar shortstop Elly De La Cruz. Speaking on the D-Mac and Reiter show, Bowden indicated that moving the 24-year-old could be a strategic necessity for Cincinnati, particularly if the organization concludes it cannot compete financially to retain him long-term. This admission signals a potential blockbuster that could reshape the National League landscape before spring training begins.
Insider confirms Cincinnati will listen for offers as LA targets next superstar
The Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged as the primary candidate to acquire De La Cruz, according to Bowden, who suggested Los Angeles must begin planning for its next generation of elite talent. The Dodgers have consistently demonstrated a willingness to pursue top-tier players, and adding De La Cruz would complement their already formidable roster. The prospect of a trade is heightened by recent on-field dynamics, including De La Cruz’s solo home run against Los Angeles in a 4-1 Dodgers victory at Great American Ball Park on September 14, 2026, which underscored his high ceiling despite the team’s loss.
For Cincinnati, the decision hinges on long-term financial sustainability versus short-term competitive viability. If the Reds believe they cannot match market value for De La Cruz’s future contract, trading him now allows them to maximize his trade value while rebuilding the core. For the Dodgers, securing a dynamic young star addresses the inevitable need for succession planning. This potential deal represents one of the most significant transactions of the 2026-27 offseason, pitting a rebuilding contender against a perennial powerhouse in a high-stakes chess match for elite talent.
Source: Yahoo Sports
