Red Sox Predictions: 5 possible landing spots for Jackie Bradley Jr.
By Tim Starr
Cincinnati Reds
The Cincinnati Reds traded with the Cleveland Indians and San Diego Padres in order to acquire right-handed starter, Trevor Bauer. They are a possible fourth place to first-place team in 2020 with how the division looks.
They are rumored to be in on Yasmani Grandal and can expect a bounce-back performance from Joey Votto. They have top of the order threats in both Jesse Winker (.830 OPS in 2019) and Eugenio Suarez (49 HR’s in 2019).
With Yasiel Puig getting booted to Cleveland last season, the Reds could use an outfielder in order to be legitimate contenders for the NL Central title. Bradley could add a few wins in 2020, posting a 2.0 WAR in an awful 2019 campaign.
The Reds, a mid-market team that has to hold onto prospects, wouldn’t have to give up many in order to pry JBJ from Bloom. Bradley would only have 1-year of control remaining, so he wouldn’t be a factor post-2020.
Jackie hasn’t performed anywhere near to his all-star potential over the past 3 years, but a change in scenery could help him. Fenway Park has a deep right field, making it difficult for a left-handed pull hitter to thrive. The small dimensions of Great American Ballpark can definitely benefit him.
While Bradley wouldn’t be the piece that would make Cincinnati first place contenders, he would be a nice complimentary piece in a series of moves. With only adding $11 million if he was acquired, other free agents could be signed still such as Grandal and Jake Odorizzi.
Overall, the Reds may view that $11 million can be spent better elsewhere and choose another outfielder than Bradley. However, if veteran leadership is a priority for the Reds, a trade with Boston could be in the cards.