Phillies: 3 Trade Targets With Cincinnati Reds

Tyler Naquin, OF

Cincinnati Reds outfielder Tyler Naquin is currently raking for the Reds with fellow outfielder Nick Senzel on the 10-day disabled list. With Senzel healthy, the Reds have four outfielders capable of starting on most major league teams. With the other outfielders performing better than Naquin, he may be the best bet for a trade opportunity.

Defensively, Naquin can play all three outfield positions adding much-needed versatility to the Phillies bench. Throughout his career, Naquin has split time evenly amongst centerfield and rightfield. With injuries to Senzel in 2021, Naquin has primarily played center field in Cincinnati. In 2019, Naquin led the American League with nine assists from rightfield and, in 2020, he was second in the American League with five assists from the outfield, showing he has a very capable arm. Naquin may cost more than the Phillies are willing to depart within a trade.

The 30-year-old is playing on a one-year, $1.5 million contract and will be arbitration-eligible for one more year before reaching free agency in 2023. With solid defense and versatility, Naquin also offers a quality bat when given the chance. In 2016, Naquin’s debut season, he was given the majority of playing time and saw action in 116 games including 365 plate appearances. Naquin slashed a solid .296/.372/.886 with 14 home runs and 18 doubles.

Since 2016, with the exception of 2021, Naquin has been unable to earn a full-time playing role. Given the opportunity on a team like the Phillies, where competition is open for two spots, Naquin could solidify the Phillies outfield.