Dodgers Trade Gavin Lux to Reds, Strengthening Depth and Planning for the Future

The Los Angeles Dodgers have traded infielder Gavin Lux to the Cincinnati Reds, receiving outfield prospect Mike Sirota and a competitive balance Round A draft pick (No. 37 overall) in return. This move, finalized on Monday, highlights the Dodgers’ strategy to optimize their roster depth and secure assets for future success while giving Lux a fresh start in Cincinnati.

Why the Dodgers Moved Lux

Once heralded as one of baseball’s brightest prospects, Gavin Lux became expendable following a series of roster moves by the Dodgers. With Mookie Betts transitioning to shortstop and the signing of Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim on a three-year, $12.5 million deal, the Dodgers found themselves with an abundance of middle infield options. Veterans Tommy Edman, Miguel Rojas, and Chris Taylor further solidified their infield depth, leaving little room for Lux’s role to grow.

The trade allows the Dodgers to address future needs by acquiring a promising young player in Mike Sirota and a high-value draft pick. The No. 37 pick in the 2025 MLB Draft provides additional flexibility for the Dodgers to bolster their farm system or use it as a trade asset.

Lux’s Ups and Downs in Los Angeles

Lux, 27, spent parts of five seasons with the Dodgers, showcasing flashes of brilliance but struggling to maintain consistency. His 2024 campaign epitomized this pattern, with a slow first half (.213 batting average and .562 OPS) followed by a resurgence after the All-Star break, where he slashed .304/.391/.508 with a .899 OPS. However, defensive lapses and a 2023 knee injury that sidelined him for the entire season left lingering questions about his future in Los Angeles.

Despite his struggles, Lux played a pivotal role during the Dodgers’ 2024 postseason run, delivering clutch performances, including a game-tying sacrifice fly in the World Series clincher against the Yankees. His contributions will be remembered fondly, but the trade marks a necessary turning point for both parties.

What the Dodgers Gained

Mike Sirota, a 21-year-old outfielder and the grandnephew of Hall of Famer Whitey Ford, was initially selected by the Dodgers as their 16th-round pick in the 2021 draft. However, he chose not to sign with the team and instead focused on improving his draft stock. His decision paid off; Sirota excelled at Northeastern University, finishing with a .324 batting average, 29 home runs, and 48 stolen bases over 143 games. As a result, he was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2024 draft.

His lean, athletic build and strong physical tools make him a standout prospect with immense potential. Sirota’s scouting reports (via Fangraphs and MLB Pipeline) highlight his plus bat speed and excellent bat-to-ball skills from the right side of the plate. While his timing was off during parts of the spring, he has demonstrated raw power—18 home runs in his sophomore season—and projects as a potential 20/20 player at the highest level. His speed and instincts make him a legitimate long-term center field prospect, with good reads, solid routes, and a tick-above-average arm.

Some concerns remain about his tendency to swing under in-zone fastballs, but his on-base ability and plate discipline buoy his profile as an everyday player. With refinement, particularly in his defensive reads and routes, Sirota could develop into a dynamic five-tool talent. The Dodgers’ renowned player development system provides the perfect environment to unlock his consistency and maximize his potential.

The inclusion of the competitive balance draft pick offers even greater value. Positioned immediately after the first round, the No. 37 pick allows Los Angeles to secure another high-impact player or utilize the selection strategically in future trades.

How the Trade Benefits Gavin Lux and the Reds

For Gavin Lux, the move to Cincinnati represents a chance to reset his career. The Reds gain a versatile left-handed bat capable of playing multiple positions, including second base, shortstop, and outfield. Lux’s second-half surge in 2024 suggests that he still has untapped potential, and the hitter-friendly dimensions of Great American Ball Park could further amplify his offensive production.

The Reds struggled with offensive output at key positions in 2024, particularly in the infield corners and designated hitter roles. Lux will help address these shortcomings. Additionally, his postseason experience and two World Series titles with the Dodgers bring invaluable leadership to Cincinnati’s young roster.

A Win-Win Trade

The decision to part with Gavin Lux is your typical Dodgers garden variety calculated roster strategy that prioritizes depth and long-term planning. Meanwhile, the Reds acquire a player who could emerge as a cornerstone for their rebuilding efforts. Both teams stand to benefit from this move, making it a win-win deal as the 2025 MLB season approaches.