St. Petersburg, Florida – The Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Angels, and Cincinnati Reds have finalized a significant three-team trade involving several players, including outfielder Josh Lowe heading to the Angels. In return, the Rays will receive infielder Gavin Lux from the Reds, alongside minor league pitcher Chris Clark, while Cincinnati picks up left-handed reliever Brock Burke from Los Angeles.
This trade marks the second time the Angels have acquired an outfielder this offseason, following the departure of Taylor Ward earlier in a separate deal that sent him to Baltimore. In Lowe, the Angels are looking to bolster their outfield options, which have been limited, particularly with Mike Trout expected to spend more time as a designated hitter. Lowe, who enjoyed a breakout 2023 season, will be tasked with filling the void left by Ward.
Despite his promising start as a regular player with a 20-home run and 30-steal season, Lowe has faced challenges over the past two years due to injuries that have hindered his ability to maintain consistent production. His performance dipped significantly in 2025, culminating in a disappointing month before he was traded, where he hit just .139 and posted a strikeout rate of over 35%.
Lux’s acquisition is crucial for the Rays, who need to address their second-base gap following the earlier Lowe trade. Having spent last season with the Reds, Lux played various roles on the field, contributing to a balanced lineup with his versatility. While Lux put up average numbers during his time in Cincinnati, he is expected to step into a near-regular role in Tampa Bay, particularly against right-handed pitchers.
Burke’s move to Cincinnati adds depth to the Reds’ bullpen. After standing out in his time with the Angels, where he recorded a career-high 69 appearances last season, the lefty will bring valuable experience to Cincinnati’s pitching staff. Burke has shown improved velocity and effectiveness, allowing him to thrive in high-pressure situations.
The other piece in this trade, Chris Clark, was a fifth-round pick for the Angels in 2023. Although Clark’s minor league performance showed room for improvement, he has garnered attention for his potential, particularly with a developing changeup that could enhance his toolkit as he progresses through the minors. His experience at the Double-A level may serve as a stepping stone as he strives for a larger role in the future.
As each team adjusts to its new roster dynamics, this trade underscores the changing strategies in the offseason as clubs position themselves for the upcoming season. The Angels, meanwhile, aim to reinforce their outfield after trading away pivotal players, while the Rays continue to reshape their infield as they seek another strong showing in 2026. The Reds, looking to solidify their pitching staff, will also lean on newcomers Burke and Ferguson to meet their bullpen needs.