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The Los Angeles Dodgers have built a reputation for cultivating a deep farm system, but the time may have come for president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman to either deploy those prospects or part with them. That means giving young players meaningful roles or trading them for established talent. This dilemma is at the heart of the speculation surrounding Cincinnati Reds sensation Elly De La Cruz.
De La Cruz embodies the modern MLB superstar with his electrifying blend of speed, power, and infectious energy. Although he is the face of the Reds' franchise, Cincinnati appears headed toward a lengthy rebuild with a thin roster and little hope of contending in the near future. Consequently, it might be wise for the Reds to explore trading the 24-year-old for a package of young, controllable players.
Former MLB front office executive Jim Bowden believes Cincinnati will make De La Cruz available. "Absolutely, I do," Bowden said on Dmac and Reiter on 97.1 The Fan when asked if the Reds would consider dealing De La Cruz this offseason. "Does it make sense? Sure. For the Reds, what makes sense, like the Nationals with [James] Wood and [CJ] Abrams, they should be trying to sign these guys. But if you can't, don't let them get to free agency or a year from free agency. Trade them now while you can get a huge package and can get a competitive team."
Such a trade would benefit both sides. The Dodgers must plan for their next superstar, as the team looked aging this past season. De La Cruz would represent the next wave of star power with Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and (to an extent) Shohei Ohtani moving past their primes. His contract runs through 2030, adding to his appeal. Los Angeles is rich in prospect capital, especially in the outfield, and could assemble a package of prospects and proven MLB players to complete a deal.
Key Analysis
What might the Dodgers surrender for De La Cruz? Justin Wrobleski and/or Emmet Sheehan fit the profile that would attract Cincinnati, as could high-ceiling farmhands like Mike Sirota, Josue De Paula, Eduardo Quintero, and Christian Zazueta. This could be the moment for Los Angeles to strike, as a player of this caliber and youth rarely becomes available. De La Cruz is not without flaws—he strikes out frequently and has a tendency to commit errors—but his ceiling is that of a top-three talent in the sport. For Friedman, it is a gamble worth taking.