Angels Rumors: Trade scenarios for Reds pitcher Sonny Gray

Of all the young players in the Angels farm system, outfielder Brandon Marsh will be one of the most sought-after trade chips. Marsh is currently ranked as the No.1 Angels prospect and listed at No.73 on the MLB Top 100 list.

At 23-years old, Marsh looks poised to take over a corner outfield spot for the Angels at some point in the near future. In 2019, Marsh slashed .287/.368/.408 with seven home runs and 45 RBI through 101 games in double-A and the Arizona Fall League.

Marsh is also considered to have plus-base running speed and plus-defense in the outfield.

After running a scenario that involves Marsh (value-37.5) for Gray (value-29.7) straight up, the trade simulator considers the Angels to ‘moderately overpay’ in this scenario.

The Angels currently have no clear-cut choice for a starter in right field, and the declining production of Justin Upton could lead to finding a replacement in left field before his contract expires after 2022.

Would trading Brandon Marsh for Sonny Gray involve the Angels giving up too much?

This leads to the perfect scenario where Marsh slides into a corner position and develops next to one of the game’s best in Mike Trout. I would argue Marsh could even earn a spot on the opening day roster depending on how well he performs in spring training.

Cincinnati’s outfield depth is full at the moment, but right fielder Nick Castellanos has one-year remaining on his current deal. Considering the Reds are shopping Gray and fellow starter Luis Castillo, I think it’s safe to assume Cincinnatti would consider parting ways with Castellanos at the deadline if the team has fallen out of contention.

I think this scenario all goes back to whether or not Arte Moreno and the Angels are in a ‘win-now’ mode. The organization needs to consider if the Halos need more help in the outfield or the rotation, and which position is easier to improve.

If not Marsh, the Angels have a young outfielder with MLB experience the Reds may consider.