Reds Linked to Astros All-Star Infielder in Puzzling Trade Rumor

Cincinnati already has a crowded infield, making a deal for Isaac Paredes an odd fit.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:40pm

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The Cincinnati Reds have been surprisingly linked to Houston Astros infielder Isaac Paredes, a 31-homer All-Star, in recent trade rumors. However, this potential move makes little sense for the Reds, who already have a stacked infield with Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Ke'Byran Hayes, and Sal Stewart. Adding Paredes would only create an unnecessary logjam in the Reds' infield.

Why it matters

The Reds are looking to build on their playoff appearance last season, but acquiring Paredes would be an odd move that doesn't address any clear needs on the roster. It could disrupt the team's infield chemistry and playing time for their young, talented core of infielders.

The details

Paredes, a two-time All-Star, hit 31 home runs for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2023 before being traded to the Chicago Cubs. He's now reportedly available from the Astros due to their own infield depth. However, the Reds already have their infield positions locked down, with Elly De La Cruz at shortstop, Matt McLain at second base, Ke'Byran Hayes at third base, and Sal Stewart emerging as a quality first baseman. Adding Paredes would create a logjam that the Reds don't need to address.

  • The Reds barely made the playoffs in 2025 and are looking to return in 2026.
  • Paredes hit 31 home runs for the Rays in 2023 before being traded to the Cubs.

The players

Elly De La Cruz

The Reds' starting shortstop.

Matt McLain

The Reds' starting second baseman.

Ke'Byran Hayes

The Reds' starting third baseman.

Sal Stewart

The Reds' emerging starting first baseman.

Isaac Paredes

A two-time All-Star infielder for the Houston Astros who hit 31 home runs in 2023.

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What they’re saying

“Either way, he appeared in a bunch of trade rumors over the winter precisely because he doesn't have a clear role in Houston.”

— Zachary D. Rymer, Bleacher Report Writer

The takeaway

This potential trade for Isaac Paredes makes little sense for the Reds, who have already built a strong infield core and don't need to create an unnecessary logjam. The Reds should focus their efforts on other areas of the roster that could use improvement rather than pursuing this puzzling deal.