Blockbuster Trade: Royals and Reds Swap Rising Stars – Who Got the Better Deal?
The Kansas City Royals have bolstered their roster by acquiring Jonathan India, a dependable leadoff hitter and second baseman, from the Cincinnati Reds. Alongside India, the Royals also received outfielder Joey Wiemer in exchange for right-hander Brady Singer, strengthening their infield and batting order ahead of the 2025 season. India’s Impact Jonathan India, 27, brings […]
The Kansas City Royals have bolstered their roster by acquiring Jonathan India, a dependable leadoff hitter and second baseman, from the Cincinnati Reds. Alongside India, the Royals also received outfielder Joey Wiemer in exchange for right-hander Brady Singer, strengthening their infield and batting order ahead of the 2025 season.
India’s Impact
Jonathan India, 27, brings proven talent and leadership to Kansas City. The 2021 NL Rookie of the Year batted.248 with 15 home runs, 58 RBIs, and a career-best 80 walks in 2024, tying for fifth in the majors in that category. Known for his consistency, India has appeared in 341 games as a leadoff hitter across his 523-game career.
Under contract for $5.45 million in 2025, India isn’t eligible for free agency until 2027, giving the Royals several seasons with him at the helm of their infield. Pairing India with rising star Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City’s dynamic shortstop, is expected to solidify the team’s middle infield defense and offensive output.
India was originally drafted fifth overall by Cincinnati in 2018, just 13 spots ahead of Singer. Interestingly, the two were college teammates at the University of Florida, adding an element of familiarity to this trade.
Brady Singer’s Departure
Brady Singer, 28, moves to Cincinnati after establishing himself as a mainstay in the Royals’ rotation since his 2020 debut. In 2024, Singer recorded a 9–13 record with a 3.71 ERA across a career-high 179 2/3 innings, contributing to the Royals’ playoff push as an AL Wild Card contender.
Over his career, Singer has logged a 36-44 record with a 4.28 ERA in 127 appearances, 124 of which were starts. Known for his durability and consistency, Singer provides the Reds with a reliable starting pitcher as they aim to rebuild their rotation. Singer is eligible for arbitration in 2025 and free agency in 2027.
Joey Wiemer’s role
As part of the deal, the Royals also acquired 25-year-old outfielder Joey Wiemer. After being traded to Cincinnati in July alongside pitcher Jakob Junis in exchange for Frankie Montas, Wiemer ended the 2024 season with Triple-A Louisville, where he showcased potential for future MLB contributions.
Wiemer’s limited MLB experience includes just two games for the Reds, but his versatility and potential to develop into a key outfielder make him a promising addition to Kansas City’s depth chart.
Strategic Outlook
This trade reflects the Royals’ commitment to building a more competitive lineup. Adding India provides a steady presence at the top of the batting order while improving the team’s defensive middle infield. Wiemer offers potential outfield depth and flexibility, aligning with the Royals’ long-term plans.
For the Reds, acquiring Singer fills a critical need for starting pitching as they continue to rebuild. His experience and proven track record in the majors make him a valuable addition to their rotation.
Both teams look poised to benefit from this trade, with Kansas City focusing on immediate lineup improvements and Cincinnati addressing pitching needs for the future.
