3 Radical Ways the Cincinnati Reds Can Solve Their Left Field Problem

Trade Joey Votto for Bryce Harper

Oct 7, 2014; San Francisco, CA, USA; Washington Nationals left fielder Bryce Harper hits a solo home run against the San Francisco Giants in the 7th inning during game four of the 2014 NLDS baseball playoff game at AT&T Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Yeah, I know this one can’t happen, but it makes some sense on both sides.  Let us count the ways:

1. Washington Nationals first baseman Adam LaRoche is looking at a $15-million extension, or a $2-million buyout.  He’s gone, in other words, so the Nats could be looking for a first baseman.
2. Joey Votto is a first baseman who can hit, when he’s healthy.
3. The Reds need a left fielder (see above).
4. Bryce Harper is a left fielder who has worn out some of his welcome with a cocky attitude.
5. The Reds owe Votto a lot of money and are a middle-class team.
6. The Nationals don’t owe Harper very much money and are an upper-class team who can afford Votto.
7. This type of trade is fun to talk about.

OK, so there are some good reasons for the Reds and Nats to consider a blockbuster like this, but it can’t happen.

It violates my “no splash” rule.  Votto is practically a DH at this point.  The Kansas City Royals are in the ALCS.

It can’t happen.  That would be like the Reds trading for Ken Griffey, Jr., in his prime, or something.