MLB rumors: An All-Star slugger who may soon be traded by the Cincinnati Reds and Seattle Mariners…

As the 2025 MLB season heats up and the trade deadline looms, speculation is swirling around two teams that may soon part ways with an All-Star-caliber power bat: the Cincinnati Reds and the Seattle Mariners. Both clubs are in precarious positions—teetering between playoff contention and a potential retool—and MLB insiders suggest that one or more sluggers could be on the trading block in the coming weeks.

Cincinnati Reds: Jonathan India or Christian Encarnacion-Strand?

The Reds are brimming with young talent but are facing a logjam of infielders and corner bats. One name that keeps surfacing in trade talks is Christian Encarnacion-Strand, a hard-hitting corner infielder who mashed 20 home runs last season. With Elly De La Cruz and Noelvi Marte taking over the left side of the infield, and Spencer Steer proving his versatility, Encarnacion-Strand could be the odd man out.

Another name floating around is Jonathan India, a former NL Rookie of the Year and fan favorite. Though not a traditional slugger, India has above-average power for a middle infielder and is known for his leadership and intensity. With his arbitration years ticking by, the Reds may consider moving him to address other needs—especially pitching depth.

Seattle Mariners: Teoscar Hernández or Mitch Haniger Redux?

In Seattle, the offense has been inconsistent, and the team may look to shake up its roster. Teoscar Hernández, who signed a short-term deal to re-establish his market value, has been productive but may not be part of the Mariners’ long-term plans. With younger outfielders like Dominic Canzone and Jonatan Clase waiting in the wings, Hernández could be a trade chip—especially for a team looking for a right-handed power bat.

There’s also some buzz around Mitch Haniger, who returned to the Mariners after a brief stint with the Giants. While Haniger has struggled with injuries in recent years, he still has the potential to provide a veteran presence and pop in the middle of a lineup. If the Mariners decide to go younger or clear payroll, Haniger could be a candidate for a deadline deal.

Potential Landing Spots

Teams that may be in the market for a power-hitting outfielder or corner infielder include the New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, and San Diego Padres. All are in the playoff hunt and have had inconsistencies in their offensive output.

The Yankees, for example, are reportedly seeking a right-handed bat to complement Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. The Phillies could use help at the hot corner or in left field. And the Padres, who are clinging to Wild Card hopes, are always aggressive at the deadline.

What’s Next?

Nothing is imminent yet, but with the deadline approaching in late July, scouts are already making the rounds and front offices are fielding calls. Whether it’s Encarnacion-Strand, India, Hernández, or Haniger, at least one All-Star-caliber slugger may be wearing a new uniform by August.