Here’s the scoop on the Cincinnati Reds’ bold trade proposal involving a $65 million Atlanta Braves star:
The Reds reportedly pitched a trade offer centered around Marcell Ozuna, the Braves’ reliable slugger who signed a four-year, $65 million deal in 2021. Cincinnati proposed sending a package of top-tier prospects—likely including names like Adam Serwinowski and Ethan O’Donnell—to Atlanta in exchange for Ozuna, hoping to inject power into their lineup .
Ozuna’s performance this season has been uneven: he’s batting around .238 with an OBP of .367 and slugging .380, meriting 11 homers, but has defensive lapses in his game . Still, his left-handed homer power is exactly what the Reds aim to add as they chase a postseason spot.

From Atlanta’s standpoint, trading Ozuna would serve a dual purpose. With the Braves struggling and injury-plagued, moving him could net high-upside prospects while freeing payroll. Ozuna is in the final year of that $65 million deal, making him a natural trade chip if they don’t intend to re-sign .
For Cincinnati, acquiring Ozuna could energize their offense. Great American Ball Park is a hitter’s haven, and reports note Ozuna has hit .270 there with a .547 slugging percentage in 35 games—an ideal fit that might rejuvenate his production .
That said, this remains a proposed scenario, not a finalized deal. The discussion reflects both teams’ current priorities: Reds looking to buy and bolster their bat, Braves eyeing future assets and payroll flexibility.
As the July 31 deadline approaches, both clubs are exploring options. Whether the Ozuna-for-prospects deal gains traction remains to be seen—but it’s shaping up as one of the most intriguing trade conversations of the summer.