Joey Votto needed only eight words to introduce a Reds-Dodgers trade debate: “De Paula for Elly. Who says no?”

De Paula for Elly. Who says no?

— Joey Votto (@JoeyVotto) October 12, 2026

The proposal pairs Los Angeles prospect Josue De Paula with Cincinnati shortstop Elly De La Cruz, creating an intriguing conversation about potential versus proven production.

The obvious answer from Cincinnati’s perspective should be no, at least to a straight swap. De La Cruz is already an established major league shortstop. Trading that kind of centerpiece for one young hitter would require confidence that the replacement’s future value outweighs the production being surrendered.

De Paula is hardly an ordinary prospect. MLB Pipeline ranks him fourth overall, and the Dodgers retained him on their NLCS roster because they value his left-handed bat. Dave Roberts specifically praised the quality of his at-bats when explaining that decision.

Josue De Paula with another incredible plate appearance in the postseason.

The 21-year-old came in as a pinch hitter representing the potential final out.

He drew a five-pitch walk and turned over the Dodgers lineup in the ninth inning. pic.twitter.com/tf4jCWe2EG

— Noah Camras (@noahcamras) October 12, 2026

His major league audition reinforced the excitement. De Paula hit .323 with a .500 on-base percentage across 42 plate appearances. That sample is encouraging, but it remains far too small to establish how consistently he can succeed against major league pitching.

Article Continues Below

For Los Angeles, the attraction would be straightforward: exchanging upside for an established impact player. Even then, the Dodgers would need to consider defensive alignment, roster fit and whether surrendering their best prospect addresses their important needs.

There is a personal connection behind the names. De Paula and De La Cruz train together during the offseason, and Cincinnati’s star has expressed happiness about his younger friend reaching the majors.

Votto’s question works because both players offer compelling possibilities. But a compelling conversation is not a balanced transaction. Unless Cincinnati receives additional value, the Reds would have stronger reasons to reject the exchange than embrace the gamble.