The Los Angeles Angels, Tampa Bay Rays and Cincinnati Reds have finalized a three-team trade, sending outfielder Josh Lowe to the Angels. The deal reshuffles infield and pitching prospects among the teams during the 2025-26 MLB offseason. Lowe, who had a breakout 2023 season, joins the Angels amid their roster adjustments.
In a notable move during the ongoing 2025-26 Major League Baseball offseason, the Los Angeles Angels, Tampa Bay Rays and Cincinnati Reds announced a three-team trade on Friday, January 16. The transaction, which highlights the active hot stove period, primarily sends outfielder Josh Lowe from the Rays to the Angels.
Under the agreement, the Angels acquire Lowe, a 27-year-old right-handed hitter who turns 28 in February. Lowe had a standout 2023 campaign, hitting 20 home runs in 135 games with an OPS+ of 128. However, his offensive performance has declined over the last two seasons. In return, the Rays receive infielder Gavin Lux from the Reds and right-handed pitcher Chris Clark from the Angels. Lux, a veteran left-handed batter with a career OPS+ of 99, plays second base and can handle left field; he enters his walk year in 2026. Clark, a 24-year-old former fifth-round draft pick, reached Double-A last season and has a 5.25 ERA with a 2.52 strikeout-to-walk ratio across three minor-league seasons in 54 starts and two relief outings.
The Reds gain left-handed reliever Brock Burke from the Angels. The 28-year-old Burke boasts a career ERA+ of 110, providing bullpen depth. This trade comes as teams maneuver ahead of the 2026 season, with the Angels bolstering their outfield, the Rays adding versatility and the Reds enhancing relief pitching.
The deal underscores the fluid nature of the offseason, where even established players like Lowe are on the move. No further details on motivations were provided in the announcement, but it reflects broader efforts to balance rosters and address needs before spring training.
