GAVIN LUX GOES TO THE REDS
The Cincinnati Reds acquired infielder/outfielder Gavin Lux from the Los Angeles Dodgers for outfielder Mike Sirota and a competitive balance round A draft pick in 2025.
What does it give the Cincinnati Reds
In Lux, the Reds bring in a useful hitter, but one who has not lived up to expectations so far in his career. After missing the 2023 season with an ACL tear, the former top prospect endured a middling year in 2024, hitting .251/.320/.383 with 10 home runs and five stolen bases. This will be an important season for Lux in Cincinnati, where he appears likely to play every day at second base (though he can also play shortstop and in the outfield). But he will need to earn his at-bats, as the Reds have plenty of capable hitters vying for playing time. Can Lux take his game to another level?
What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers brought in South Korean free agent Hyeseong Kim this off-season, which further crowded the infield. Somewhat surprisingly, Lux was the odd man out, after he carved out a consistent role in 2024. But in return, the Dodgers were able to restock their draft prospects. On top of adding a first-round pick, they acquired Sirota, who was a third-round selection of the Reds in 2024. Los Angeles actually drafted Sirota originally in 2021, but he did not sign and re-entered the draft last year. The 21-year-old is a good outfield prospect who will now begin his career in the Dodgers organization.
Fantasy impact
Lux's value has been limited due to his modest power and lack of steals, but he should get a boost from this trade. Moving to Cincinnati, he will get a park upgrade. So, he is more likely to hit in the top half of the batting order. These factors could add up to a career year for Lux, but there is risk here. Meanwhile, his departure from the Dodgers ensures consistent playing time for Tommy Edman and newcomer Kim, a base stealer who also hit for a high average in the KBO.
