After playing a key role in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 2024 World Series victory, Gavin Lux was unexpectedly traded to the Cincinnati Reds during the offseason. Despite the surprise move by the reigning champions, Lux has welcomed the fresh start and sees it as a chance to grow.
In a recent conversation with veteran pitcher and former Dodger Ross Stripling, Lux reflected on the benefits of the transition. “Sometimes being around new people and hearing new perspectives can be refreshing,” he told Foul Territory.
He continued, “Even if it’s something you’ve heard before, hearing it from someone new or in a different way can help it click better.”
Gavin Lux is embracing his move to the Reds
Gavin Lux played the hero role for the Reds in a dramatic win over the New York Yankees on Tuesday. Trailing 3-0 in the seventh inning, Cincinnati rallied to tie the game and force extra innings. In the 11th, Lux pinch-hit for Rece Hinds and came through with a walk-off single, scoring Elly De La Cruz to seal the victory.
Lux credits Reds hitting coach Chris Valaika for recent improvements at the plate. Valaika worked with him on refining his stance and posture, adjustments Lux says help him “get into a better position to execute my swing.”
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The results have been noticeable. In 72 games with the Reds, Lux is slashing .270/.358/.391 with a 103 OPS+, all above his career norms and better than his 2024 numbers with the Dodgers.
However, his overall stats are boosted by a hot start. Through April, he was hitting .327/.416/.439 with 14 RBIs and 13 runs in 29 games. Since then, he’s cooled off, posting a .694 OPS in May and batting just .210 with a .645 OPS so far in June. Still, his recent walk-off may be the spark he needs to get back on track.
Despite Lux’s slump, the Reds have gained ground in June. They’ve gone 13-7 since June 3, trimming their NL Central deficit from nine games to 5.5 behind the division-leading Cubs. They’ve also improved their Wild Card position, cutting the gap from four to 2.5 games.
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