MLB Trade Rumors: Reds & Orioles Linked To Blockbuster

April 05, 2025 ,

Heston Kjerstad’s path with the Baltimore Orioles has been anything but straightforward. 

Drafted second overall in 2020, the powerful left-handed hitter battled myocarditis and hamstring issues before making his MLB debut in 2023. Though he’s flashed promise, including slugging .584 in Triple-A last season with 16 home runs in 62 games, Kjerstad had been stuck behind a logjam of young Orioles bats like Colton Cowser, Kyle Stowers, and Austin Hays. 

“All he’s done is hit at every level,” one rival scout said. “He just needs a real shot.”

Kjerstad's chance to make an impression is right now, as the Orioles recently lost Colton Cowser for an extended period of time, and Stowers and Hays play elsewhere now. Once he returns, however, the trade rumors could flare up again, depending on how Kjerstad performs in that stretch.

With the Orioles expected to be in the thick of a playoff race and needing pitching depth, the 26-year-old is increasingly viewed as a valuable trade chip.

Executive VP and GM Mike Elias has said he’s "open to anything that helps us win now and in the future," and Kjerstad's name continues to surface in conversations with clubs looking for controllable power. 

Baltimore’s recent moves dating back to last season—dealing prospects for arms like Jack Flaherty and Zach Eflin—show a willingness to part with top talent in the right deal. As one AL executive put it, “They have the depth to trade a guy like Kjerstad and not flinch.”

The Cincinnati Reds could be a natural fit, according to Zach Pressnell of Fansided. 

With Spencer Steer playing more first base and DH, and a need for a lefty power bat in the outfield, Kjerstad could slot in immediately and become a middle-of-the-order fixture. The Reds have young pitching depth to offer—names like Connor Phillips or Chase Petty could be in play—and GM Nick Krall has said they’re “looking for young bats that fit our timeline.” 

The Reds' offensive woes were emphasized by a recent losing stretch that saw them lose three straight games to the Texas Rangers by a score of 1-0 each time.

If the Orioles are serious about another deep October run, and the Reds want a long-term piece with upside, Kjerstad could be the centerpiece of a mutually beneficial deal.

Photo Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images

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