Cincinnati Reds Consider Aggressive Offseason Move for Jazz Chisholm Jr.
The Cincinnati Reds are actively exploring a trade that could dramatically reshape their lineup for the 2026 season. Team officials are reportedly discussing a deal to acquire versatile player Jazz Chisholm Jr. from the New York Yankees. This potential move aims to inject more speed and aggression into an already youthful Reds roster that thrives on playing with pace.
The Proposed Trade Structure
According to baseball insiders, the trade would send Jazz Chisholm Jr. from New York to Cincinnati. In exchange, the Yankees would receive right-handed starting pitcher Brady Singer and infielder Matt McLain from the Reds. Chisholm, currently 27 years old, is entering the final year of his contract with a salary of $10.2 million. Cincinnati would assume his full salary while maintaining the flexibility to potentially trade him again before the deadline if necessary.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for Cincinnati
The Reds are clearly focused on immediate competitiveness. Adding Jazz Chisholm Jr. would provide an instant impact player who can slot into multiple positions. He could play second base or outfield, bringing both power and exceptional speed to the lineup. The idea of pairing Chisholm with young star Elly De La Cruz creates an exciting middle infield combination built entirely on speed, defensive range, and constant pressure on opposing defenses.
While losing Brady Singer and Matt McLain would certainly affect the team's depth, Cincinnati's front office appears willing to make that trade-off. They believe Chisholm's presence could be the difference-maker that helps the team win crucial games now rather than later.
New York Yankees' Perspective on the Deal
For the Yankees, this proposed trade offers stability and long-term control. Brady Singer provides a reliable starting pitcher who posted strong numbers in 2025, including a 3.03 ERA over 140.1 innings with 168 strikeouts. Matt McLain represents a high-upside infielder who showed tremendous promise during his rookie season before shoulder injuries interrupted his development.
The Yankees would gain cost-controlled assets while addressing roster balance concerns. Minor cash adjustments or additional players could potentially be included to finalize the agreement between both organizations.
Statistical Breakdown of Key Players
Examining the 2025 performance numbers reveals why this trade has generated significant discussion:
- Jazz Chisholm Jr. played 130 games for the Yankees, batting .242 with a .332 on-base percentage and .481 slugging percentage. He hit 15 home runs, drove in 80 runs, stole 31 bases, and contributed approximately 3.0 WAR.
- Brady Singer made 32 appearances for the Reds, compiling a 3.03 ERA across 140.1 innings while striking out 168 batters.
- Matt McLain demonstrated his potential during his rookie campaign, hitting .290 before shoulder problems limited his playing time.
Potential Impact on Both Teams
If completed, this trade would benefit Cincinnati more immediately in the 2026 season. The Reds would acquire a proven game-changer who forces defensive adjustments and creates additional base-stealing threats at the top of their lineup. Chisholm's numbers could potentially improve in Cincinnati's smaller ballpark compared to Yankee Stadium.
The Yankees would secure more predictable assets but would sacrifice the nightly excitement and defensive range that Chisholm provides. The long-term success of this deal for New York largely depends on Matt McLain's ability to return to his pre-injury form and Brady Singer's continued consistency as a starting pitcher.
Baseball analysts generally view this proposal as favoring the Reds in the short term while giving the Yankees controlled assets with future potential. Both teams appear to be pursuing strategies that align with their current competitive timelines and roster construction philosophies.
