Edwin Arroyo

Edwin is a switch-hitting, defense-first infielder with a compelling blend of contact ability and premium defensive instincts. Originally drafted in the second round (48th overall) by the Seattle Mariners in 2021 out of Arecibo Baseball Academy, Arroyo was acquired by the Cincinnati Reds at the 2022 trade deadline in the package for Luis Castillo and has been a headliner in their system ever since. Known for his athleticism, football-field range, and strong arm up the middle, Arroyo has consistently been ranked among Cincinnati’s top prospects and was recently placed inside the organization’s top five for 2026. After losing all of 2024 to shoulder surgery, Arroyo returned in 2025 to anchor the Double-A Chattanooga Lookouts’ infield, slashing .284/.345/.371 with three home runs, 12 stolen bases, and excellent plate discipline across 120 games. His contact skills — underscored by a strikingly low strikeout rate — and switch-hitting ability have stood out, particularly his stretch from mid-June on where he hit closer to .296 with an even stronger on-base rate. Defensively, his work at shortstop has remained a calling card throughout his career, with scouts routinely citing his range, hands, and instincts as above-average tools at a premium position. The primary narrative around Arroyo heading into 2026 revolves around opportunity and projection. With his name now on the Reds’ 40-man roster and middle-infield depth at the big-league level in flux, he’s positioned to begin the year at Triple-A Louisville with a legitimate chance to push for Major League playing time — particularly in a utility or backup role that showcases his defensive versatility. Long term, Arroyo’s profile is built on his glove and contact bat; if he continues to grow his offensive output while maintaining his elite defense, he could carve out a steady MLB role as a high-contact, switch-hitting shortstop capable of impacting lineups at the top or bottom of the order.