TRADE: Cincinnati Reds & Los Angeles Dodgers Swing Trade for Gavin Lux

He just never lived up to the lofty expectations that he had as a first-round pick of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Now, 27-year-old Gavin Lux is moving on from Hollywood, dealt to the Cincinnati Reds.

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

It's an intriguing move for the Reds, who, despite having traded their longtime second baseman Jonathan India this winter, were already set at the position for this season with 2023 rookie sensation Matt McLain coming back from a season-long injury to slot in as the starting 2B, which is Lux's most natural position. Shortstop is taken in Cinci as well by Elly De La Cruz.

The Reds are expected to use Lux as a "super utility player", at all infield positions, a little outfield, and wherever they can fit him in.

Lux was one of the game's top prospects soon after his 2016 draft, but struggled to find a regular spot in the Dodgers' lineup. He fared reasonably well in 2024 with a .250 average and a 101 OPS+ with 10 homers.

But he's obviously made an impression on the Reds, as he has a career .296 average with a .519 slugging pct. in Great American Ballpark.

Outfield prospect Mike Sirota heads to the Dodgers in the deal. The 21-year-old is a highly-regarded power prospect.