MLB Rumors: Proposed Trade Sends Alek Manoah To The Reds

Bleacher Report has ignited speculation with its proposed blockbuster trade between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Cincinnati Reds, centering on a swap involving promising pitcher Alek Manoah and infielder Jonathan India.

In this proposed exchange, the Reds would bolster their pitching rotation by acquiring Manoah, despite his struggles in the 2023 season, banking on his potential to provide depth and talent on the mound.

After a phenomenal first two seasons in the MLB, Manoah had a horrendous year last season, posting a 5.87 ERA, 1.74 WHIP, and 79 strikeouts over 87.1 innings and 19 starts.

Alek Manoah is likely to start season on IL, said Schneider. He threw 34 pitches over two innings in a sim game, today. Next steps will depend on how he feels coming out of today, as Blue Jays will look to build him up.

— Shi Davidi (@ShiDavidi) March 27, 2024

Alek Manoah, 92mph Fastball and 81mph Slider, Overlay. pic.twitter.com/LUdAsmvPE8

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) July 29, 2023

With the Reds aiming to address a key area of need in their pitching staff, Manoah's acquisition and revival could offer a much-needed boost and potentially reshape their roster dynamics.

Over his first two seasons, the 26-year-old compiled a fantastic 2.60 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and 307 strikeouts across 308.1 innings and 51 starts.

On the other side of the trade, the Blue Jays would address their infield concerns by acquiring Jonathan India, a Major League-ready option with a track record of consistency and versatility.

The 2021 Rookie of the Year recorded a .244/.338/.407 triple-slash line, with 17 home runs, 61 RBIs, 14 stolen bases, and 78 runs scored over 119 games played last season.

Welcome back, Jonathan India!

He blasts a home run in his first at-bat back!

🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/OPFMlcTsSC

— Bally Sports Cincinnati (@BallySportsCIN) September 10, 2023

With uncertainties surrounding their second base situation and the performance of current options like Cavan Biggio, India's arrival could offer stability and offensive production to Toronto's lineup.

Over his three-year carer, the 27-year-old holds a .255/.350/.419 triple-slash line, along with 48 home runs, 171 RBIs, 29 stolen bases, and 224 runs scored across 372 games played.

While parting ways with Manoah is a bold move, the Blue Jays could view India's potential impact at second base as a significant upgrade, aligning with their goal of enhancing competitiveness for the upcoming season.

In addition, the Blue Jays currently have starters Bowden Francis and Ricky Tiedemann surging up their pitching ranks, offering them valuable depth. That being said, giving up Manoah for India in a one-for-one deal seems unlikely at this point. However, if Manoah's struggles continue, a trade similar to this could very well come to fruition. Photo Credit: Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports