Astros could help solve Reds' third base problem, but it might cost them Nick Lodolo

The Cincinnati Reds' third base position was historically unproductive in 2026, ranking last in most offensive categories, with Ke'Bryan Hayes delivering one of baseball's worst individual performances at .141/.225 with a 13 wRC+. Isaac Paredes of the Houston Astros, a two-time All-Star who hit over 20 home runs for the fifth time in six seasons, could address this need, but acquiring him would likely require the Reds to trade pitcher Nick Lodolo. The Astros need rotation help after their starters ranked 27th with a 4.81 ERA, and Lodolo's left-handed arm would complement Houston's predominantly right-handed rotation, though he struggled with a 5.48 ERA and blister issues in 2026.

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