Joey Votto's Reds-Dodgers trade proposal for Elly De La Cruz isn't as crazy at it sounds

Joey Votto proposed trading Elly De La Cruz to the Dodgers for prospect Josue De Paula, sparking debate among Reds fans. De Paula, a top-5 prospect who debuted in September, posted strong Double-A numbers last season (.303/.401/.547 with 27 home runs and 31 stolen bases) and has drawn comparisons to Juan Soto. While a straight swap seems unlikely given De La Cruz's established talent, the Dodgers could make it competitive by adding pitcher Justin Wrobleski and prospects like Charles Davalan or Kendall George. The Reds face pressure to decide De La Cruz's future before his arbitration salary climbs beyond $8 million in 2027, with free agency looming after 2029.

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