MLB trade rumors: Los Angeles Dodgers predicted to add $53 million Cincinnati Reds star to bolster rotation; Roki Sasaki key trade asset?

Trade discussion has picked up around the Los Angeles Dodgers as the 2026 season approaches, with reports connecting the club to Cincinnati Reds starter Hunter Greene. The idea of a deal involving Roki Sasaki has drawn attention because it would affect the direction of both pitching staffs.The Dodgers are preparing to use a six-man rotation again, while the Reds are trying to build on an 83-79 finish that earned them a Wild Card spot in 2025. There is no confirmation that the teams are negotiating, but Greene’s name has appeared often in offseason speculation.

Proposed Trade Framework

FanSided’s Christopher Kline suggested a scenario in which Los Angeles sends Sasaki, who is under rookie control through 2030, to Cincinnati for Greene.

The proposal could also include prospects from the Dodgers’ farm system. Greene remains under team control as well, with the Reds holding a $21 million option for the 2029 season that would keep him with the club through age 29.Greene has said trade rumors have not bothered him, but his contract status and performance make him one of Cincinnati’s most valuable players.

Los Angeles Dodgers Pitching Depth

Los Angeles Dodgers enter 2026 after a strong postseason showing.

Dodgers starters combined for a 1.54 ERA across eight playoff games, the second-lowest mark for teams that played at least eight games.Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Blake Snell are expected to remain central to the rotation. Sasaki had uneven results as a starter, posting a 4.72 ERA with 22 walks in 34.1 innings. He improved late in the season after adjusting his mechanics while pitching in relief and is projected to return to a starting role.

Still, the Dodgers have enough depth to consider moving him.

Hunter Greene’s Performance

Hunter Greene, 26, led Cincinnati’s rotation in 2025. He recorded a 2.76 ERA over 107.2 innings and struck out 31.4 percent of hitters. His fastball is the foundation of his approach, and opponents averaged a 90.4 mph exit velocity against him. Greene is from California, which could make a move to Los Angeles a comfortable transition.The Reds finished with a 3.86 team ERA, with Greene standing out as the staff’s most consistent pitcher.

What the Los Angeles Dodgers Would Gain By Signing Hunter Greene

Hunter Greene would give Los Angeles another established starter to slot alongside Yamamoto and Snell. His production, age, and control through 2029 would help the club manage payroll while keeping the rotation stable. Moving Sasaki could also reduce concerns tied to his walk rate while bringing in a pitcher with a longer track record.

What the Cincinnati Reds Would Gain

Cincinnati Reds would receive a 24-year-old pitcher with high-end velocity and several years of team control.

Sasaki’s late-season relief work showed progress and suggests room for growth. Adding him could strengthen a young core without forcing the Reds out of contention.

Pros and Cons of the Deal

- Dodgers Pros: Clear rotation upgrade with Greene’s 2.76 ERA compared to Sasaki’s 4.72; controlled starter who fits a team focused on competing now.- Dodgers Cons: Loss of Sasaki’s long-term upside and possible prospect depth.- Reds Pros: Younger pitcher under control for more seasons who could develop into a frontline arm.- Reds Cons: Departure of the starter who helped drive an 83-win season and uncertainty about Sasaki’s adjustment to a full MLB workload.

Also read: MLB trade rumors: Toronto Blue Jays target $4.26 million St. Louis Cardinals relief pitcher after Missing Out on Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker

My Opinion On This Mock Trade

The deal would represent a swap between present reliability and future potential. The Dodgers would add a proven starter as they pursue another title, while the Reds would bet on Sasaki’s development. Los Angeles appears better positioned to absorb the risk, but the outcome would depend on how both pitchers perform after the move.