In a move that is sure to make waves in the National League Central, the Cincinnati Reds have acquired veteran middle infielder Gavin Lux from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for outfield prospect Mike Sirota and a competitive balance Round A pick, as first reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan on Monday. This deal comes at a pivotal time for the Reds, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 77-85 season and a fourth-place finish in their division. The Reds’ acquisition of Lux fills a need at second base while also adding a versatile piece to their lineup.
This trade follows reports that the New York Yankees had expressed interest in Lux. Passan had earlier noted that the Yankees were among the teams that inquired about Lux’s availability, particularly given their need at second base after Gleyber Torres signed with the Detroit Tigers in the offseason. While the Yankees reportedly explored several options, including Luis Arráez of the Miami Marlins, the Reds moved quickly to land Lux, providing him with an opportunity for a fresh start after a turbulent period with the Dodgers.
Lux, 27, had long been considered one of the Dodgers’ top young talents. After an impressive minor league career, Lux made his MLB debut in 2019 and had high expectations placed upon him. However, his time in Los Angeles was marred by injuries and inconsistent play, which limited his ability to make a lasting impact as a regular contributor. In 2023, Lux missed the entire season due to a torn ACL and LCL in his knee, but he made a strong return in 2024. His performance, however, was somewhat inconsistent. While he struggled in the first half of the season, posting a .213 batting average and a .562 OPS, Lux’s performance after the All-Star break was significantly better. He batted .347 with a 1.043 OPS and showed flashes of the talent that made him a former top prospect. His postseason performance also helped solidify his status as a key contributor to the Dodgers’ World Series run, including a clutch sacrifice fly in the decisive Game 5 of the Fall Classic.
Despite these flashes of brilliance, the Dodgers’ decision to trade Lux made sense for several reasons. With the addition of Hyeseong Kim on a three-year deal earlier this offseason, the Dodgers now had an influx of infield talent, which would have likely limited Lux’s playing time. Kim was slated to be a utility player who could play multiple positions, and with the Dodgers having a crowded infield, it became clear that Lux’s role on the team could be diminished. Rather than keep him on the bench, Los Angeles opted to trade Lux to the Reds, a team that has a pressing need for infield help.
For the Reds, acquiring Lux gives them a reliable option at second base, especially in light of the departure of Jonathan India, who was traded to the Kansas City Royals in a deal that brought starting pitcher Brady Singer to Cincinnati. India had been a cornerstone of the Reds’ lineup for several years, and his trade created a gap at second base that Lux could help fill. Lux’s ability to play multiple positions makes him an even more valuable asset for the Reds, who are looking to rebuild and become more competitive in the National League Central.
Matt McLain, who missed the entire 2024 season due to a shoulder injury, was expected to be the Reds’ starting second baseman. However, McLain also played center field during the Arizona Fall League this offseason, which opened the door for potential positional experimentation. With Lux now in the fold, McLain could move around, potentially filling in at second base, shortstop, or even center field as needed. Lux’s arrival could provide flexibility in the Reds’ lineup and allow manager Terry Francona to experiment with different combinations to maximize the team’s potential. The Reds have also committed to keeping pitcher Nick Martinez after he accepted a qualifying offer this offseason, and Francona’s leadership will be key as the Reds look to improve on their performance from 2024.
Lux’s versatility, along with his ability to hit from the left side of the plate, makes him a solid addition to the Reds’ lineup. The team had struggled in the infield corners in 2024, and Lux’s ability to move around the field and play multiple positions is a significant boost. In addition to second base, Lux could see time at shortstop, third base, or even first base, offering defensive flexibility that the Reds will need in order to improve their overall team depth. His bat could provide an important left-handed presence in the lineup, complementing the Reds’ existing core of right-handed hitters.
The Reds’ decision to trade for Lux signals a shift in their approach to the 2025 season. After a disappointing 2024, the team is making a concerted effort to compete in the National League Central and improve their lineup. While it remains to be seen how the team will perform in 2025, the addition of Lux gives them a piece that can contribute both offensively and defensively.
Lux’s potential for a breakout season is real, as he showed during the 2024 campaign when he was able to elevate his game after the All-Star break. If he can continue that form in Cincinnati, he could prove to be a key player for the Reds as they look to climb the standings. Additionally, Lux’s experience in high-leverage situations, particularly in the postseason with the Dodgers, will be valuable as he navigates the pressures of playing for a team trying to make a postseason push.
One of the other reasons this trade is so significant is the context of the Reds’ offseason moves. Along with the India trade, the Reds also acquired Singer, who figures to be a key part of their pitching staff in 2025. The team also secured Martinez’s return, which strengthens their pitching depth. And, perhaps most notably, the hiring of Francona as manager is a signal that the Reds are committed to a new direction and a more competitive future. Francona’s experience and leadership will be critical in guiding the team through this transitional period, and Lux will play a key role in the Reds’ hopes for improvement.
Ultimately, the Reds’ acquisition of Gavin Lux is a calculated move that addresses multiple needs for the team. Lux provides flexibility in the infield, fills a void at second base, and adds a left-handed bat to the lineup. The move comes after several other offseason changes, including the departure of Jonathan India, and sets the stage for a potentially more competitive 2025 season. The Reds will hope that Lux’s potential, combined with the other offseason acquisitions, can lead to a return to the postseason for the franchise. As the Reds continue to rebuild, moves like this show they are committed to improving their roster and becoming more competitive in the National League Central.
