Trading for 19-year-old catching prospect could make Reds contenders

The San Diego Padres don’t look like a team ready to contend — and at this point, they shouldn’t be pretending otherwise.

That’s why the club trading top catching prospect Ethan Salas at the deadline feels more likely by the day.

The 19-year-old phenom has long been regarded as one of the most advanced international signings in recent years. Despite his timeline screaming “big league ready,” the Padres have been hesitant to take off his training wheels. Salas has pop and has shown the poise, patience and defensive polish to justify a promotion — if not in San Diego, then somewhere else.

Reds president of baseball operations Nick Krall should be on the phone inquiring about Salas — Cincinnati could be the perfect destination for him.

Salas and shortstop Elly De La Cruz would instantly become one of the most dynamic young tandems in baseball. You want electricity? You want marketable stars who can swing the balance of power in the National League Central? That’s what this pairing offers.

Cincinnati’s current catching situation is fine — Tyler Stephenson can handle the job for now. However, Salas would be an immediate upgrade and elevate the ceiling of this young core in the long term.

It’s not hard to picture Salas behind the plate and De La Cruz at shortstop for the next decade. That’s the type of core that wins divisions and secures pennants.

There’s no guarantee San Diego moves Salas — but if they dangle him, Cincinnati has the prospect capital and the motivation to make a splash. If the Reds are serious about taking full control of the NL Central for the next decade — and giving their fan base a World Series-caliber roster — Salas is the swing worth taking.