The Los Angeles Dodgers have traded second baseman Gavin Lux to the Cincinnati Reds, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN. The Dodgers will receive a Competitive Balance Round A pick (possibly No. 37) and minor-league outfielder Mike Sirota in return for the former top prospect in the organization.
Full trade, per ESPN sources:
Cincinnati receives infielder Gavin Lux.
Los Angeles Dodgers receive a Competitive Balance Round A pick (around No. 37) and outfield prospect Mike Sirota.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 6, 2025
Report: Dodgers Trade Gavin Lux to Reds
Up and Down Year
The left-handed infielder had an uneven 2024 season after a knee injury in 2023 spring training forced him to miss that whole season. Los Angeles moved Lux to shortstop but placed him at second base after the former first-rounder had trouble throwing to first base. The second basemen hit barely above .200 for the majority of the first half of the season, before carrying an injury-laden Dodger squad for a two-month span, hitting at a torrid .350 clip before coming back to earth in September.
Lux’s last at-bat for the Dodgers was a fine way to end his career in Los Angeles. He hit the game-tying sacrifice fly of Game Five of the World Series to help complete the comeback against the New York Yankees.
A Flurry of Moves
This trade may have been anticipated since the Dodgers signed KBO stand-out Hyeseong Kim to a three-year deal. Unlike Lux, Kim can play multiple infield positions, Versatility is a trait that Los Angeles values, as the only player who plays one position left on the current roster is the everyday catcher and All-Star Will Smith.
The Dodgers have n0w have another spot on the 40-man roster. They designated former top catching prospect Diego Cartaya for assignment on Friday.
Questions Remain
Mookie Betts is moving back to the infield in 2025, reportedly to play shortstop. Does he stay there or move to second base? Are the Dodgers done remaking the roster? Or are they still in the hunt for a high-end reliever and possibly one more starter?
One thing is certain: the Dodgers are seriously eying a repeat this October. Even as the calendar says January.
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