Rumored Royals-Reds trade discussions should force Mariners into the mix

Anyone is fair game on the trade market. Now a few weeks into the MLB offseason, we are beginning to learn of new players that organizations are willing to deal. It's exciting and nerve-wracking for Seattle Mariners fans at the same time because it seems like any player could be placed on the block. Who are the Mariners actually going to pursue? Who will they move?

Seattle is in desperate need of adding offensive production to their lineup, particularly somewhere in the infield. The M's have found themselves in the middle of several predictions, rumors, and links to free agent and tradable bats, and the latest piece of news should have Jerry Dipoto checking in with the Cincinnati Reds.

Mariners Rumors: Could trade with Royals help solve infield issues?

Even though the Mariners don't have a direct connection with the Reds at the moment, it looks like Cincinnati is listening to trade opportunities for second baseman Jonathan India, and has already been in deep talks with the Kansas City Royals about a move.

The good news is that the Reds are searching for pitching, which Seattle has plenty of. Whenever the Mariners come knocking, it's best for clubs to consider the deep crop of pitching that Seattle has on their roster, regardless of how good you think your current pitching staff is.

How much would India help the subpar Mariners lineup in 2025? Coming off of his fourth MLB season (all with Cincinnati), India's 80 walks were most among National League second baseman, and his 84 runs were third-most. Both offensive metrics would have led all Mariners hitters last season, a group that sported a collective .311 OBP.

India also has 63 home runs since 2021, giving him the eighth-most among second basemen over this span. His 482 hits are the fifth-most and his 234 walks are second-most across this stretch.

Would dishing out a guy like Bryan Woo or another young pitcher be worth it for Jonathan India? Considering the amount of hitters that Seattle appears interested in, they are undoubtedly desperate to acquire a productive bat. India has been one of the most consistent second basemen at the plate since he entered the league four seasons ago, so, yes, he would be worth it.

If Cincinnati is truly is willing to part with a player of this caliber, then they would be smart to talk shop with Dipoto and his team. And it's not like these two are strangers. Remember, the Mariners and Reds worked out that blockbuster Luis Castillo trade just a few years ago.