May 10, 2023; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds second baseman Jonathan India (6) reacts after a strike called on him in the ninth inning against the New York Mets at Great American Ball Park. MLB Rumors Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports
MLB Rumors: Could the Reds trade Jonathan India?
Reds middle infielder Jonathan India is just two years removed from winning National League Rookie of the Year. Yet, he’s not necessarily a core part of the team’s future. At 26 years old, India should fit into the Reds winning ways, whenever they come. But instead, it’s top prospects Matt McLain and Elly De La Cruz who are receiving all the hype.
De La Cruz is closing in on his major-league debut, as he’s climbing the minor-league ladder rather quickly. When that happens, the Reds will look for him to form an electric middle infield with McLain, which leaves India on the outside looking in.
“It’s part of the game. There are always guys behind you, always,” India said, per The Athletic. “If I just play well, it won’t matter. That’s all I can do, play my best and make the decision tough for them.”
In an appearance on the Chris Rose Podcast, India made it clear that his intent is to play for Cincinnati for a long time, if given the opportunity.
“I love this team, I love this organization, and I love this city… I’m going to give my all for this team no matter what happens,” India said.
India is slashing .276/.362/.421 this season with an OPS of .783. His ability to take pitches and make things happen on the basepaths with his speed has rubbed off on his teammates.
“When you have somebody who has had a lot of success in the league already, a former Rookie of the Year, leadoff hitter that plays every day and doesn’t complain and is definitely one of the leaders in our clubhouse,” veteran catcher Curt Casali said recently, “He’s the guy that picks out everybody for having a good game after we win. People listen to what he has to say. If he’s the guy that’s going first, the people who follow better bust it as well, because anything less is unacceptable. He definitely can be a vocal leader, but he’s definitely a leader by example.”
Trading India is the easiest solution, but it also presents a problem for the Reds clubhouse. They respect the former Rookie of the Year, and as talented as De La Cruz may be (some have dubbed him an Oneil Cruz/Fernando Tatis Jr. type), he’ll be entering a war zone when promoted to the majors.