Jason Burgos
A top MLB insider believes the Cincinnati Reds will make a bold trade for one of the best two-way players that will be available on the trade market this season.
After more progress in 2025 and a return to the postseason for the first time in five years, there is a lot of hope in Reds Nation heading into the new MLB campaign. They have a nice young core led by Elly De La Cruz, and in the offseason, the front office added Eugenio Suarez to bring more thump to the lineup and signed Emilio Pagan to be their new closer.
With the Milwaukee Brewers potentially taking a step back this season, Reds fans are hoping their team could make an improbable run to the National League Central title this summer. To do that, Cincinnati will probably need to add more talent before this year’s MLB trade deadline. And The Athletic’s Jim Bowden foresees a big trade by the club this summer.
Cincinnati Reds predicted to make Byron Buxton trade
“Minnesota Twins star Byron Buxton waives his no-trade clause and is traded to the Reds at the deadline with two-and-a-half years of control remaining on his contract,” Bowden wrote in a new predictions article ahead of MLB Opening Day 2026.
The two-time All-Star and one-time Gold Glove winner would be a great addition for the Reds. In 2025, he had a big year as he posted career highs in home runs (35), runs (97), and RBIs (83), while adding 25 stolen bases. Furthermore, he is seen as one of the best defensive centerfielders in the American League.
The fact that Bowden believes the 11-year veteran would waive his no-trade clause for Cincinnati shows the improved profile of the club around the game. While a trade would be costly, Buxton is not just an on-field fit for the Reds. He is also playing on a reasonable contract. He is making just $15.2 million annually over the next three seasons.
