Spring training hasn’t even started, yet discussions about the trade deadline are already underway. Welcome to the MLB offseason, where the focus is always on what’s ahead. While it might seem premature to some fans, general managers and front office staff are constantly thinking about the trade deadline.
Recently, Bleacher Report featured the Cincinnati Reds in its “Way-Too-Early Predictions for the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline.” Among the predictions was the Reds potentially acquiring Tampa Bay Rays first baseman. For this scenario to play out, Reds fans would have to hope the Rays quickly fall out of playoff contention.
Way-to-early trade deadline prediction suggests Reds could land Rays’ slugger Yandy Diaz
“Díaz would be a significant boost to the Reds’ lineup, and it wouldn’t be surprising if Nick Krall has already explored the possibility of acquiring the Rays’ slugger this offseason. Díaz is an ideal fit for the Reds — his low strikeout and whiff rates, combined with his right-handed bat, would bring balance to the lineup and address one of the team’s weakest spots from 2024: first base.
However, all indications suggest that the Rays plan to keep Díaz heading into Opening Day. Still, if Tampa Bay’s 2025 season takes a turn for the worse — a plausible scenario — the organization might consider trading one of their most valuable assets at the deadline.
As Bleacher Report noted, the AL East is set to be one of the toughest divisions in baseball next year. Adding to the Rays’ challenges, they’ll be playing away from their home stadium due to Hurricane Milton’s destruction, making the season even more difficult.
Bleacher Report’s trade proposal included Christian Encarnacion-Strand heading to the Rays in exchange for Díaz. While that might feel like a steep price for a 33-year-old infielder with below-average defense, the Reds would be pursuing Díaz for his bat, not his glove. He’s under contract through 2025 at just $10 million, with a $12 million club option for 2026.
Encarnacion-Strand’s performance in 2025, after a season marred by injuries, could heavily influence whether the Reds make a move for Díaz. If Cincinnati doesn’t make any further offseason additions, a midseason offer from the Rays might be too tempting to ignore.”
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