Reds Top 50 Prospects
Our rankings ahead of the 2026 season
Diamond Reds News Top 50 rankings are built from independent evaluation, statistical trends, and player development projection rather than public consensus lists. Rankings reflect a combination of ceiling, proximity to the majors, statistical performance, scouting traits, and developmental trajectory.
1
Sal Stewart
1B/3B ----------- MLB Cincinnati Reds
Age: 22
Ht: 6' 1"
Wt: 224
DOB: 12/07/03
Acquired: Round 1 Competitive Balance Pick 32 - 2022
B/T: R/R
Sal is is one of the most promising young hitters in the Cincinnati Reds organization. The Miami, Florida native was selected 32nd overall in the first round of the 2022 MLB Draft out of Westminster Christian School, where he posted a .514 average with nine home runs as a senior and was named to the All-USA Today High School Baseball Team. He made steady progress through the minors, overcoming a 2024 wrist injury to put together a breakout 2025 campaign that saw him dominate at Double-A Chattanooga and Triple-A Louisville before making his MLB debut on September 1, 2025. Stewart’s combination of advanced hit tools, power, and on-base ability has quickly made him one of the Reds’ most exciting young bats. At the plate, Stewart has drawn praise for his mature approach and pitch recognition, with scouts lauding his ability to control the strike zone and drive the baseball to all fields. In 2025 between Double-A and Triple-A, he hit .309 with 20 home runs, 80 RBIs and a .907 OPS, showcasing both contact skills and developing power that translates well at higher levels. He also posted a respectable .255 batting average with five homers and eight RBIs in his first taste of major league pitching late in 2025. Due to his offensive performance, Stewart has appeared on many national Top 100 prospect lists and is frequently cited as the #1 prospect in the Reds’ system entering 2026. Defensively, Stewart’s long-term home remains somewhat uncertain. While he has seen time at third base and first base, evaluators question whether his arm and range will profile sustainably at the hot corner in the big leagues. As a result, many project him settling at first base or as a versatile corner bat capable of handling multiple infield spots. Regardless of position, his bat is the foundation of his value — with 60-grade hitting and plus power potential, he profiles as a middle-of-the-order contributor with a high floor for offensive production. As the 2026 season approaches, Stewart is widely expected to compete for regular playing time with Cincinnati’s big league club, with a bright future ahead as one of the organization’s cornerstone young hitters.
2
Alfredo Duno
C ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 20
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 210
DOB: 01/07/06
Acquired: International Signing - 2023
B/T: R/R
Duno is one of the most exciting young offensive talents in the Cincinnati Reds’ farm system. Signed as a high-end international free agent in January 2023 for a $3.1 million bonus, Duno has quickly climbed prospect boards thanks to his advanced hit-tool and burgeoning power potential. Standing around 6’2″ and weighing roughly 210–235 lbs, he combines rare physical strength with athletic actions behind the plate — an intriguing mix for a catcher profile. Heading into the 2026 season, many evaluators see him as the Reds’ top positional bat in the system and one of the more impactful young catchers in all of baseball. Offensively, Duno broke out in 2025 with the Daytona Tortugas at Low-A, posting an impressive .287 batting average with a .430 on-base percentage and a .518 slugging percentage, leading the Florida State League in walks and ranking among the league leaders in virtually every major offensive category. His 18 home runs and 95 walks in 495 plate appearances underscore both his power upside and plate discipline, a rare combination for such a young hitter. That performance helped him garner attention on national prospect lists — including mid-season Futures Game honors — and climb into Top 100 rankings around baseball. Scouts praise his bat speed, ability to consistently barrel the ball, and knack for drawing free passes, while some project him as a potential 30-home-run threat as he fills out physically. Defensively, Duno’s future behind the plate has been a key development storyline. After limited catching experience early in his pro career, he began seeing more time behind the dish in 2025, showing a strong arm at times and improving blocking and receiving skills. While evaluators differ on how he’ll ultimately stick long-term — some projecting he could outgrow the position or shift roles if his body changes significantly — the consensus is that his defensive tools are at least average with above-average arm strength. Even if the catching profile remains a question mark, his bat alone gives him a high floor, and his offensive profile (plus walk rates, emerging power, and athleticism) makes him one of the more intriguing young hitters in the minors with frontline potential.
3
Héctor Rodríguez
CF/LF/RF ----------- AAA Louisville Bats
Age: 21
Ht: 5' 10"
Wt: 186
DOB: 03/11/04
Acquired: Tyler Naquin Trade - Mets 2022
B/T: L/R
Héctor has quickly developed into one of the more intriguing young outfield bats in the Cincinnati Reds system. Originally signed by the New York Mets as an international free agent in January 2021, he was acquired by the Reds in a trade for Tyler Naquin and Phillip Diehl in July 2022 and has steadily worked his way up through the organization. Standing about 5’10″ and 200 lbs, Rodríguez is a left-handed hitter with a well-rounded offensive profile and plus contact skills who can impact games with both his bat and his improving power. Rodríguez’s breakout came in 2025, when he hit .298/.357/.481 with 12 home runs and six stolen bases in 345 plate appearances for Double-A Chattanooga before earning a promotion to Triple-A Louisville, where he continued to produce at a .260/.304/.405 clip with seven homers and nine steals. His strong offensive performance — particularly his ability to make contact and put the ball in play with a low strikeout rate — has drawn praise from evaluators and helped him climb prospect rankings, with some outlets placing him among the Reds’ top five prospects heading into 2026. He was also added to Cincinnati’s 40-man roster in November 2025 to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft, underscoring the club’s belief in his near-term future in the big leagues. Defensively, Rodríguez has transitioned from his early days as a middle infielder into a full-time outfielder, primarily playing center and left field. His plus speed is an asset in the outfield, though questions remain about whether he’ll stick in center long term; many project him as a corner outfielder with above-average range. While he still needs to refine his plate discipline and continue adjusting to advanced pitching in Triple-A, Rodríguez’s combination of contact ability, emerging power, and athleticism gives him a realistic shot to earn a role with the Reds’ big league club in 2026, potentially as a left-handed bat who can make an impact at the top and middle of the lineup.
4
Rhett Lowder
SP ----------- AAA Louisville Bats
Age: 23
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 200
DOB: 03/08/02
Acquired: Draft - Round 1 Pick 7 - 2023
B/T: R/R
Rhett Lowder enters the upper levels of the Reds’ system with the look of a pitcher built to contribute meaningful innings sooner rather than later. A product of Wake Forest University, where he emerged as one of college baseball’s premier arms, Lowder was selected seventh overall by the Reds in the 2023 MLB Draft and rapidly rose through the minors to make his major league debut in late August 2024. Entering 2026, he’s widely regarded as a top arm in Cincinnati’s prospect hierarchy, currently ranked around the No. 3 prospect in the organization and among Baseball America’s Top 100 prospects nationally. On the mound, Lowder’s profile centers on his excellent command, heavy strike-throwing ability, and a three-pitch mix that plays at every level. His fastball sits in the mid-90s (topping out near 97 mph), and he complements it with an above-average slider and a strong changeup that consistently keeps hitters off balance — traits that helped him repeat as one of college baseball’s premier pitchers before being drafted. After progressing quickly through High-A and Double-A in 2024, Lowder earned a late-season promotion to the Reds, where he impressed with a 1.17 ERA over six big-league starts — an outstanding showing that reinforced his high floor and poise on the mound despite his limited pro experience. Lowder’s 2025 campaign, however, was largely derailed by injuries, including a right forearm strain followed by a left oblique issue that severely limited his innings, leaving him with just a handful of minor league outings on the year. As a result, he’s coming into 2026 with questions about health and workload but plenty of optimism surrounding his recovery and long-term impact. The Reds used his Arizona Fall League stint in 2025 to help him regain rhythm and refine his delivery after the setback, and spring training offered another chance to compete for a rotation spot. With elite command as his calling card and a projectable mix of pitches, Lowder still projects as a potential mid-to-top-of-the-rotation starter once fully healthy, making him one of the organization’s most important pitching prospects to monitor.
5
Tyson Lewis
SS ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 20
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 195
DOB: 01/10/06
Acquired: Draft - Round 2 Pick 51 - 2024
B/T: L/R
At just 20 years old, Tyson Lewis has emerged as one of the most intriguing young bats in the Cincinnati Reds’ minor league system, blending rare raw power and athleticism with a high-ceiling skill set that excites evaluators. A native of Omaha, Nebraska, Lewis was selected by the Reds in the second round (51st overall) of the 2024 MLB Draft out of Millard West High School, where he earned Nebraska Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year honors after hitting .496 with eight homers and 31 stolen bases as a senior. Since signing, his combination of size (6′2″, ~195 lbs), left-handed bat, and plus speed has set him apart from many peers in the system. Lewis took a significant step forward in his first full professional season in 2025, splitting time between the Arizona Complex League Reds and Single-A Daytona Tortugas. Over 81 games, he hit .311 with nine home runs, 54 RBIs and swiped 27 bases, showcasing both his power and athleticism in game action. His Statcast metrics stood out as well, with elite exit velocities ranking among the best in the minors — including multiple barrels measured over 118 mph — highlighting his ability to generate hard contact. Despite the tantalizing tools, Lewis’ profile carries volatility. His aggressive approach led to a high strikeout rate in the pitcher-friendly Florida State League, and there remains work to do refining his contact skills and consistency against advanced pitching. Defensively, he shows the range and speed to stick at shortstop, but questions about his hands and actions could prompt a move to another infield spot as he progresses. If he can harness his bat control while maintaining his plus power and speed, Lewis projects as a potential middle-of-the-order impact bat with five-tool upside — a profile that could see him climb prospect boards rapidly with continued growth in 2026.
Edwin Arroyo
SS ----------- AA Chattanooga Lookouts
Age: 22
Ht: 6' 0"
Wt: 175
DOB: 08/25/03
Acquired: Luis Castillo Trade - Mariners 2022
B/T: S/R
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.
7
Steele Hall
SS ----------- High School
Age: 18
Ht: 6' 0"
Wt: 180
DOB: 07/24/07
Acquired: Draft - Round 1 Pick 9 - 2025
B/T: R/R
A dynamic young talent with tools that jump off the page, Steele Hall represents one of the most exciting prep bats to enter the Cincinnati Reds’ system in recent memory. The Mobile, Alabama native reclassified at Hewitt-Trussville High School to become eligible for the 2025 MLB Draft, where the Reds selected him with the 9th overall pick — a position many evaluators felt undersold his upside given his age and athletic profile. Hall’s combination of speed, defense, and projection gives him five-tool allure rare for someone still just 18 years old heading into his first professional season. Hall’s athleticism is his calling card. Scouts consistently highlight his elite running ability, which plays as a true top-of-the-scale tool and immediately impacts his defensive value up the middle while also making him a disruptive presence on the bases. Defensively, his range, arm strength, and instincts give him a strong chance to remain at shortstop long term, a factor that significantly boosts his overall profile. Even without professional game experience yet, Hall has already landed near the top of the Reds’ prospect rankings based largely on his tools and long-term upside. Offensively, Hall remains a projection-heavy evaluation as he transitions to pro ball. His swing shows the foundation for solid contact ability with room for added strength, and many evaluators believe his power will develop into the gap-to-gap variety as he matures physically. Plate discipline and pitch recognition will be key areas of focus early in his career, likely beginning in the Arizona Complex League. If his bat develops alongside his elite speed and defense, Hall has the ceiling of a high-impact middle infielder who can influence games in multiple ways.
8
Cam Collier
1B/3B ----------- AA Chattanooga Lookouts
Age: 21
Ht: 6' 1"
Wt: 210
DOB: 11/20/04
Acquired: Draft - Round 1 Pick 18 - 2022
B/T: L/R
Cam Collier has quietly carved out a reputation as one of the Reds’ most intriguing young bats thanks to his combination of raw power, on-base skills, and pedigree as a former first-round pick. Born November 20, 2004, in Chicago, Illinois, Collier was selected 18th overall by Cincinnati in the 2022 MLB Draft out of Chipola Junior College — where his physicality and bat-to-ball skills stood out to scouts. He signed for an overslot bonus and has been a mainstay on organizational top-prospect lists since entering professional baseball. Offensively, Collier’s profile has big appeal. In 2024 he became one of the few Reds prospects to hit 20 home runs as a teenager, showcasing the pop in his left-handed swing and his ability to drive the ball to all fields. After a thumb injury in spring training 2025 that required surgery and limited his early season, he rebounded to post a strong overall slash line with a high on-base percentage, showing advanced plate discipline and feel for contact even when his power numbers dipped. His performance in the Arizona Fall League underscored his continued development, with encouraging metrics in hits, walks, and hard contact on display as he worked back toward full strength. Defensively, Collier’s future is most likely at first base, although he has spent time at third base early in his career. Mobility concerns and his thick frame have led evaluators to project him primarily as a corner infielder, but his arm strength and ability to handle pressure at the hot corner in developmental play give the Reds options as he continues to refine his defensive actions. With his blend of power, OBP skills, and left-handed bat, Collier projects as a middle-of-the-order hitter who could reach the big leagues as early as 2026–2027 if his bat continues trending upward and he remains healthy.
9
Adolfo Sanchez
OF ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 19
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 175
DOB: 09/19/06
Acquired: International Signing - 2024
B/T: L/L
Still in the early stages of his professional career, Adolfo Sanchez has already positioned himself as a high-upside outfield prospect within the Reds’ organization since signing as one of the club’s top international free agents in January 2024 for a $2.7 million bonus. At 19 years old, Sanchez brings an advanced feel for hitting and rare plate discipline for his age, traits that have made him a fan-favorite under-the-radar prospect and helped him climb organizational rankings entering 2026. Offensively, Sanchez burst onto the scene with a standout 2025 season in the Dominican Summer League, slashing .339/.474/.504 with two homers, 27 RBIs and 10 stolen bases in 121 plate appearances. His ability to consistently get on base — underscored by a significant walk rate — paired with hard contact and emerging extra-base power, gives him a potentially well-rounded offensive profile as he transitions stateside. Evaluators applaud his left-handed swing’s balance between contact and power, and his patient approach suggests a strong foundation for future growth up the ladder. Defensively, Sanchez has logged time across all three outfield spots, with a profile that leans toward a corner role at maturity due to his size and tools, though his athleticism allows for versatility early in his career. While he’ll need to prove himself against higher-level pitching once he begins playing in the United States in 2026, his 2025 performance and underlying tools have scouts and analysts excited about his long-term potential as a middle-to-bottom-of-the-order contributor with plus offensive upside.
10
Zach Maxwell
RP/CP ----------- MLB Cincinnati Reds
Age: 25
Ht: 6' 6"
Wt: 275
DOB: 01/26/01
Acquired: Draft - Round 6 Pick 183 - 2022
B/T: R/R
Zach Maxwell, often known by the nickname “Big Sugar,” is a power-armed relief pitcher in the Reds’ system whose elite velocity and wipe-out slider have made him a fan favorite and rising bullpen option. A 6-foot-6, 275-pound right-hander out of Georgia Tech, Maxwell was selected by the Reds in the sixth round of the 2022 MLB Draft and has quickly climbed prospect boards because of his ability to miss bats in bunches and his imposing physical presence on the mound. Maxwell’s stuff plays up at every level. His fastball regularly sits in the triple-digit range (touching up to 102 mph), and when paired with a hard, breaking slider he can dominate opposing hitters — a combination that helped him make his major league debut with the Reds in August 2025. In his brief MLB stint that year, he struck out 13 batters over 10 innings while showing flashes of high-leverage potential in relief. Across his minor league career, Maxwell has maintained a strong strikeout rate (well above average) thanks to his power arsenal. The primary developmental focus for Maxwell has been improving his control and consistency. While his stuff is undeniably plus, command has fluctuated at times in the minors, leading to elevated walk rates that have limited his overall effectiveness. If he can refine his delivery and harness his raw ability more consistently, Maxwell projects as a late-inning bullpen arm with closer potential who can leverage his high-octane fastball-slider mix to impact big league games regularly. As he heads into 2026, he’ll again be in the mix for a bullpen role with Cincinnati as they continue to evaluate his big-league readiness.
11
Chase Petty
SP ----------- AAA Louisville Bats
Age: 22
Ht: 6' 1"
Wt: 190
DOB: 04/04/03
Acquired: Sonny Gray Trade - Minnesota 2022
B/T: R/R
Chase Petty is a big-armed right-hander in the Cincinnati Reds’ pitching pipeline who has long been on scouts’ radars for his high-octane fastball and deep arsenal, traits that helped make him a first-round pick and centerpiece of a major trade early in his career. Originally selected 26th overall by the Minnesota Twins in the 2021 MLB Draft out of Mainland Regional High School in New Jersey, Petty was traded to the Reds in March 2022 as part of the deal that sent Sonny Gray to Minnesota, landing him in a rebuilding system with ample opportunity to develop and advance. Petty’s stuff is his calling card: scouts have consistently noted a fastball that can flirt with triple-digit velocity backed by a slider, cutter, and changeup that give him a full five-pitch mix when he’s in rhythm. Heading into 2026, he remains one of Cincinnati’s top pitching prospects. His 2025 campaign was a tough one statistically — including struggles in his brief big-league action and a difficult year at Triple-A Louisville — but the sheer quality of his raw tools continues to give evaluators belief that he can still develop into a frontline starter if he can refine his command and consistency. Developmentally, the focus for Petty moving forward will be harnessing his strike-throwing ability and sequencing his pitches more effectively at higher levels. His control has fluctuated in professional innings, which has led to elevated walk rates and inconsistency, but when he’s on, his arsenal can dominate. Should those elements come together, Petty projects as a fringy mid-rotation starter with back-of-the-rotation innings upside; if not, some evaluators believe his velocity and breaking offerings could allow him to transition into a high-leverage bullpen role. Either way, his age (still just 22 years old as he enters 2026) and arm talent ensure he’ll be a name to watch as the Reds continue his development.
12
Arnaldo Lantigua
CF/RF ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 20
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 200
DOB: 12/19/05
Acquired: Trade - Dodgers 2022
B/T: R/R
Arnaldo Lantigua is a right-handed corner outfield prospect in the Cincinnati Reds’ system whose bat-first profile and emerging power have made him a notable name to track in the lower minors. Originally signed as an international free agent by the Los Angeles Dodgers, Lantigua was acquired by the Reds prior to the 2025 season and has produced encouraging results since joining the organization. Still just 20 years old, he has shown an offensive foundation that gives him intriguing long-term upside. Offensively, Lantigua flashed his power potential during the 2025 season, posting a .265 batting average with 12 home runs and an .824 OPS across time spent in the Arizona Complex League and at Single-A Daytona. His ability to drive the ball with authority stood out in a pitcher-friendly environment, and evaluators have consistently noted his raw power and comfort generating hard contact to the pull side. While his approach continues to evolve, the underlying strength and bat speed point toward legitimate extra-base production as he matures. Defensively, Lantigua profiles best in a corner outfield role. His speed grades closer to average, but his arm strength fits well in right field and gives him a viable defensive home as he climbs the ladder. Because his value will be tied primarily to his bat, continued refinement of his hit tool will be key as he moves through the system. If that development continues, Lantigua projects as a power-oriented outfielder capable of providing run production at higher levels.
13
Stharlin Torres
SP/RP ----------- Arizona Complex League
Age: 19
Ht: 6' 0"
Wt: 182
DOB: 06/19/06
Acquired: International Signing - 2024
B/T: R/R
Stharlin Torres is an emerging young arm in the Cincinnati Reds’ pipeline whose combination of strike-throwing ability and early professional success has made him one of the more intriguing teenage pitchers in the lower levels of the system. Born June 19, 2006, in Santiago, Dominican Republic, the right-hander signed with Cincinnati as an international free agent in 2024 and quickly began to stand out thanks to his poise on the mound and advanced feel for pitching relative to his age. At 6’0” and roughly 182 pounds, Torres profiles as a developing starter with room to add strength as he climbs the ladder. Torres’ early results have been extremely encouraging. After a strong debut in the Dominican Summer League, he transitioned stateside in 2025 with the Arizona Complex League Reds and posted a 1.88 ERA across 38.1 innings with 44 strikeouts against just seven walks, limiting opponents to a sub-.200 average. His career minor league numbers — a 1.81 ERA with nearly a strikeout per inning — highlight both his ability to miss bats and his advanced command for a pitcher still in his teens. On the mound, Torres works primarily with a fastball that sits in the low-to-mid-90s and has reportedly touched the upper-90s, pairing it with a developing slider and changeup that give him a foundation for a starter’s arsenal. His strike-throwing ability and efficiency have been key traits early in his career, though continued physical development and refinement of his secondary pitches will be important as he faces more advanced hitters. As he enters the next phase of his development, Torres projects as a young arm to watch closely — one whose early performance and command profile give him a chance to grow into a legitimate starting pitching prospect within the organization.
14
Angel Nunez
OF ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 16
Ht: 5' 10"
Wt: 160
DOB: 04/07/09
Acquired: International Signing - 2026
B/T: L/L
Angel Nuñez is a highly athletic young center field prospect who became the centerpiece of the Cincinnati Reds’ 2026 international signing class after agreeing to a $3 million bonus as one of the top players available on the market. A left-handed hitter from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Nuñez gained early recognition through international competition, including a standout performance for the Dominican Republic at the U-15 World Cup. Evaluators have long been drawn to his speed, defensive instincts, and advanced feel for the game relative to his age, giving him a strong developmental foundation as he begins his professional career. Nuñez’s profile is built around athleticism and contact ability. He’s known for an aggressive but controlled approach with good bat-to-ball skills and an advanced eye for the strike zone compared to many teenage prospects. While he doesn’t yet possess the physical strength of some peers, scouts believe his quick hands and projectable frame could allow more power to develop over time, likely in the form of doubles and occasional pull-side pop. His offensive game is expected to lean heavily on putting the ball in play, getting on base, and using his speed to pressure defenses. Defensively, Nuñez projects as a true center fielder thanks to plus running ability and an above-average arm that already flashes impact potential. His speed allows him to cover significant ground in the outfield, and many evaluators believe his defensive value could be a carrying tool early in his career while the bat continues to mature. As he begins his climb through the Reds’ development system, Nuñez profiles as a high-energy up-the-middle athlete with long-term everyday upside if his hit tool develops as expected.
15
Leo Balcazar
SS/3B/2B ----------- AA Chattanooga Lookouts
Age: 21
Ht: 5' 10"
Wt: 190
DOB: 06/17/04
Acquired: International Signing - 2021
B/T: R/R
Leo Balcazar is a versatile middle infielder whose steady development and resilience following injury have kept him firmly on the radar as a potential big league contributor. Born June 17, 2004, in Maracay, Venezuela, Balcazar signed with the Reds in January 2021 and quickly gained attention for his mature offensive approach and defensive instincts up the middle. After missing most of 2023 with a torn ACL, he worked his way back through the system and continued progressing toward the upper minors, showcasing strong baseball IQ and positional flexibility. Offensively, Balcazar’s profile is built around contact skills, plate discipline, and gap-to-gap production rather than pure power. During the 2025 season he split time between High-A Dayton and Double-A Chattanooga, slashing .263/.339/.381 with improved strikeout rates and a solid walk total, demonstrating a more refined approach at the plate. His performance carried into a strong showing in the Arizona Fall League, where he hit over .380 across his first 13 games and consistently generated hard contact against advanced pitching. Defensively, Balcazar has experience across the infield, logging time at shortstop, second base, and even third base as the organization has looked to maximize lineup flexibility. While his ACL injury raised questions about long-term quickness at shortstop, his instincts, arm strength, and ability to handle multiple spots give him a realistic path to a future utility or everyday infield role. As he enters the next phase of his development, continued offensive consistency and defensive versatility will be key factors in determining how quickly he pushes toward a major league opportunity.
16
Sheng-En Lin
SP/3B/SS ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 20
Ht: 5' 11"
Wt: 185
DOB: 09/01/05
Acquired: International Signing - 203
B/T: L/R
Sheng-En Lin is an athletic right-hander from Taiwan whose unique development path — transitioning from a two-way player into a full-time pitcher — has made him one of the more intriguing young arms in the Cincinnati Reds’ system. Born September 1, 2005, in Taitung County, Lin signed with Cincinnati during the 2023 international period and quickly drew attention for his versatility and advanced feel for the game. Before turning pro, he represented Taiwan internationally, showcasing both his pitching ability and offensive tools at the U-18 Baseball World Cup, where he posted a 1.97 ERA while contributing at the plate as well. Lin’s 2025 season marked a turning point in his development. After early struggles trying to balance pitching and hitting, he shifted his focus primarily to the mound and delivered strong results between the Arizona Complex League and Single-A Daytona, finishing with a 3.06 ERA and 61 strikeouts against just 15 walks across 47 innings. His fastball has been reported to reach the mid-to-upper-90s, and he complements it with a developing slider and changeup that give him a starter’s foundation. The combination of strike-throwing ability and swing-and-miss stuff has made his transition to pitching-only look promising. Mechanically, Lin’s athleticism stands out on the mound, allowing him to repeat his delivery and generate life on his fastball despite a relatively modest frame around 5’11”. Continued refinement of his secondary pitches and building innings will be key next steps as he faces more advanced hitters. While still early in his pitching career, the Reds view his command, adaptability, and international experience as strong building blocks, and a full season focused solely on pitching could accelerate his rise through the system if his stuff continues to trend upward.
17
Luis Mey
RP ----------- AAA Louisville Bats
Age: 24
Ht: 6' 5"
Wt: 235
DOB: 06/24/01
Acquired: International Signing - 2018
B/T: R/R
Luis Mey is a power reliever in the Cincinnati Reds’ system whose elite velocity and aggressive mound presence have helped him push quickly toward a major league role. Born January 24, 2001, in San Cristóbal, Dominican Republic, Mey signed with the Reds as an international free agent and developed into one of the organization’s hardest-throwing arms. His steady rise through the minors culminated in his major league debut during the 2025 season, where he got his first taste of big league action and showed flashes of the electric stuff that has long made him an intriguing bullpen option. Mey’s arsenal centers around a fastball that regularly reaches the upper-90s and can touch triple digits, paired with a hard slider that generates swing-and-miss when located effectively. Throughout 2025, he split time between Double-A Chattanooga, Triple-A Louisville, and Cincinnati, maintaining strong strikeout numbers thanks to his raw power and ability to challenge hitters up in the zone. Even in limited MLB innings, his velocity stood out, reinforcing his projection as a potential late-inning weapon if he continues refining his approach. The primary developmental focus for Mey remains command and consistency. At times his delivery can lead to elevated walk rates, which has prevented his premium stuff from fully translating into sustained success. If he continues to improve his strike throwing and pitch sequencing, Mey has the upside to grow into a high-leverage bullpen arm capable of handling important innings at the major league level, making him a key relief option to monitor heading into 2026.
18
Liberts Aponte
SS ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 18
Ht: 6' 0"
Wt: 160
DOB: 11/08/07
Acquired: International Signing - 2025
B/T: R/R
Liberts Aponte is a defense-first shortstop whose advanced glove and growing offensive upside have made him one of the more intriguing young infielders in the Cincinnati Reds’ international pipeline. Signed out of Venezuela as the club’s top international addition in the 2025 class for a $1.9 million bonus, Aponte entered pro ball with a reputation as one of the most skilled defenders in his class, earning praise from scouts for having “magic in his hands” and the instincts to remain at shortstop long term. Aponte’s first professional season in the Dominican Summer League offered encouraging signs at the plate. Across 45 games in 2025, the right-handed hitter slashed .247/.368/.461 with seven home runs, nine stolen bases, and nearly as many walks as strikeouts — an impressive showing for a 17-year-old adjusting to pro pitching. His ability to control the strike zone and generate unexpected power early in his career has helped shift his offensive projection from glove-only to a more balanced profile with room to grow as he matures physically. Defensively, Aponte’s future remains anchored at shortstop, where his range, hands, and arm strength stand out as carrying tools. Evaluators believe his athleticism and instincts give him a strong chance to stick at the position as he climbs the system, while his offensive development will determine his ultimate ceiling. Still early in his professional journey, Aponte projects as a long-term up-the-middle defender with the potential to grow into an everyday role if his bat continues trending upward alongside his already advanced defensive foundation.
19
Aaron Watson
SP ----------- High School
Age: 19
Ht: 6' 5"
Wt: 205
DOB: 01/06/07
Acquired: Draft - Round 2 Pick 51 - 2025
B/T: R/R
Aaron Watson brings a developmental profile built more on projection and feel than loud present-day tools, but there are enough underlying traits to make him an interesting arm to track as he moves through the lower levels of the system. Working from a lean, athletic frame, he shows a repeatable delivery and a willingness to attack the strike zone, traits that have helped him log consistent outings while refining his arsenal. The organization has emphasized incremental adjustments to his tempo and lower-half usage, helping him maintain balance through release and improve overall pitch efficiency. His fastball plays best when located to the edges, typically working in the low-to-mid 90s with modest life rather than overpowering velocity. Watson complements it with a developing breaking ball that flashes average shape, showing tighter spin when he stays on top of it, along with a changeup that has become an increasingly important part of his approach against opposite-handed hitters. None of the pitches currently project as dominant on pure stuff alone, but the overall mix plays up because of sequencing and an ability to keep hitters off balance. Continued refinement of the breaking ball’s consistency will likely determine how much swing-and-miss he generates at higher levels. Long term, Watson’s profile points toward a strike-throwing starter who relies on pitchability and durability more than raw power. The Reds have shown a willingness to let younger arms develop gradually, and his progress will likely hinge on maintaining command gains while adding incremental strength to his frame. If the stuff continues to tick forward even slightly, he could carve out a role as a steady rotation depth option, with a fallback path as a multi-inning relief arm capable of covering meaningful innings.
20
Jose Franco
SP ----------- AAA Louisville Bats
Age: 25
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 175
DOB: 11/25/00
Acquired: International Signing - 2018
B/T: R/R
Jose Franco has developed into one of the more intriguing power arms in the Reds’ upper-level pitching pipeline, pairing a late-blooming trajectory with a heavy, physical build that allows him to generate easy velocity. Signed out of Venezuela and slowed at times by injuries earlier in his career, he gained momentum with a strong run through Double-A and Triple-A, showing improved durability and the ability to carry his stuff deeper into outings. His 2025 season marked a significant step forward, as he logged over 100 innings with a mid-3.00s ERA while earning a spot on the organization’s 40-man roster, signaling growing confidence in his readiness for a major league look. The foundation of Franco’s arsenal is a fastball that can push toward high nineties, often overwhelming hitters when he establishes it early in counts. The pitch plays up thanks to his size and downhill plane, giving him a true bat-missing weapon even against advanced competition. His slider and changeup remain more inconsistent, flashing usable shapes but lacking the polish needed to consistently neutralize left-handed hitters. Continued progress with secondary differentiation and command will be key, as evaluators see the raw ingredients for more swing-and-miss if he can better sequence off the fastball rather than relying on pure velocity. Projection-wise, Franco sits at an interesting crossroads between starter and high-leverage reliever. The Reds have allowed him to build innings like a rotation piece, but the power profile and current pitch mix could ultimately translate to a late-inning role if refinement stalls. Even so, his resurgence after missing time earlier in his development has reshaped his trajectory, and the strides he made at the upper levels suggest he could push for meaningful big league innings in the near future if his strike throwing continues to trend in the right direction.
21
Carlos Jorge
CF/2B ----------- A+ Dayton Dragons
Age: 22
Ht: 5' 9"
Wt: 160
DOB: 09/22/03
Acquired: International Signing - 2021
B/T: L/R
Carlos Jorge stands out in the Reds’ system as an undersized but explosive athlete whose game is built around speed, bat-to-ball skills, and defensive versatility. Signed out of the Dominican Republic, he quickly gained attention for his energy and instincts, showing an advanced feel for the game despite a smaller frame. His profile leans heavily on athleticism rather than physical projection, but his ability to impact multiple facets of the game has allowed him to move steadily through the lower levels while adjusting to more advanced pitching. At the plate, Jorge operates with a short, compact swing geared toward contact and line drives. He controls the barrel well and has shown the ability to use the whole field, though his approach can become aggressive at times, leading to stretches where he expands the zone. Power is not expected to be a major part of his offensive output, but his quick hands and strong contact rates allow him to pressure defenses once the ball is in play. His speed is a clear carrying tool, influencing both his baserunning value and his defensive range, and continued refinement of his swing decisions will be key as he faces higher-level arms. Defensively, Jorge has logged time across the infield and in center field, giving the organization flexibility as it evaluates his long-term role. His quick first step and athleticism play well up the middle, though arm strength and overall consistency will determine where he ultimately settles. The overall profile points toward a potential utility option with impact speed and on-base ability, but if his offensive approach continues to mature, there is enough skill here for him to carve out a more regular role built on versatility and disruptive athleticism.
22
Ty Floyd
SP ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 24
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 200
DOB: 08/28/01
Acquired: Draft - Round 1 Competitive Balance Pick 38 - 2023
B/T: R/R
Ty Floyd entered pro ball with the reputation of a battle-tested SEC starter, but his early development has been shaped as much by health management as by on-field performance. After being drafted out of LSU, he did not immediately begin a traditional minor league progression, instead spending significant time recovering from arm issues that delayed his professional debut. Floyd dealt with elbow discomfort early in 2024 before ultimately undergoing shoulder surgery that wiped out his entire season, forcing the Reds to slow his timeline and prioritize long-term durability over rapid advancement. When healthy, Floyd shows the same power-oriented traits that made him successful in college. His fastball typically sits in the mid-90s with riding life up in the zone, and he leans heavily on a high-spin curveball that flashes plus depth and can serve as a put-away pitch when commanded. He mixes in a slider and changeup, both of which remain works in progress but give him multiple shapes to attack hitters. After returning to action in 2025, the Reds monitored his workload closely, emphasizing efficiency and consistent mechanics as he rebuilt arm strength following surgery. Projection-wise, Floyd still fits the mold of a power starter, though his injury history adds a layer of uncertainty to how aggressively the organization pushes him through the system. The combination of shoulder surgery, prior elbow discomfort, and careful innings management suggests a development path built around gradual buildup rather than rapid promotion. If his command and durability continue to trend upward as he distances himself from the injury, he has the repertoire to handle a rotation role, while a potential fallback as a high-leverage relief arm remains on the table depending on how his workload evolves.
23
Luke Holman
SP ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 23
Ht: 6' 4"
Wt: 201
DOB: 01/06/03
Acquired: Draft - Round 2 Competitive Balance Pick 71 - 2024
B/T: R/R
Luke Holman entered the Reds’ system with one of the more advanced pitchability profiles among recent college arms, bringing a starter’s mix and a track record of performance against high-level SEC competition. A right-hander with a compact, repeatable delivery, Holman built his reputation on command and sequencing rather than overpowering velocity, showing an ability to work efficiently through lineups. The organization has leaned into his feel for pitching early in his pro career, allowing him to attack hitters with a mature approach while continuing to refine the shapes of his secondary offerings. His fastball typically operates in the low-to-mid 90s and plays up because of location and extension more than pure life. The separator in Holman’s arsenal is his splitter, a pitch that flashes above-average potential with late tumble and serves as his primary weapon against both right- and left-handed hitters. He pairs it with a slider that shows tighter break when he stays on top of the ball, giving him a three-pitch foundation that fits a starter’s role. While none of the offerings profile as elite on raw metrics alone, the overall package works because of how well he sequences and maintains consistent strike throwing. Long term, Holman projects as a command-oriented starter capable of moving steadily through the system if the stuff continues to tick forward incrementally. The Reds have emphasized refining his fastball usage — particularly elevating it to set up the splitter — as a way to generate more swing-and-miss against advanced hitters. If the secondary pitches continue to sharpen, he has the ingredients to settle into a back-of-the-rotation role, with the floor of a multi-inning relief arm whose pitch mix and strike-throwing ability could translate well in shorter stints.
24
Carlos Sanchez
3B/SS/OF ----------- A+ Dayton Dragons
Age: 21
Ht: 6' 0"
Wt: 177
DOB: 01/12/05
Acquired: International Signing - 2022
B/T: L/R
Carlos Sanchez is a developing infielder whose value stems from defensive reliability and a steady, contact-oriented offensive approach. Signed as a young international prospect, he has progressed through the lower levels by showing a consistent feel for the game rather than standout physical tools. His frame offers modest projection, but evaluators have noted improvements in strength and overall athleticism, allowing him to handle a regular workload while continuing to refine his fundamentals on both sides of the ball. At the plate, Sanchez focuses on putting the ball in play, working with a short swing designed to produce line drives rather than lofted power. He shows solid hand-eye coordination and the ability to adjust to different pitch types, though he is still learning to be more selective in hitter’s counts. Power is likely to remain limited, making on-base skills and situational hitting important areas of growth as he faces more advanced pitching. Continued development of his approach — particularly controlling the strike zone — will play a significant role in determining how his offensive profile translates against upper-level arms. Defensively, Sanchez has logged time primarily on the infield dirt, showing dependable hands and a fundamentally sound approach that allows him to handle routine plays consistently. His range and arm strength fit best in a utility-oriented role, giving the Reds flexibility as they evaluate where his skill set ultimately settles. The long-term projection points toward a versatile depth option capable of moving around the diamond, with the potential to carve out a role built on reliability and steady execution if the bat continues to progress.
25
Mason Neville
OF ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 22
Ht: 6' 3"
Wt: 197
DOB: 01/13/04
Acquired: Draft - Round 4 Pick 114 - 2025
B/T: L/L
Mason Neville brings an intriguing blend of athleticism and offensive upside to the Reds’ outfield pipeline, standing out for his physicality and ability to impact the ball when he gets extended. A left-handed hitter with a strong lower half, he built significant momentum during his final college season at Oregon, where he emerged as one of the premier power bats in the country. Neville led all of Division I baseball with 26 home runs while posting a .290/.429/.724 slash line, earning multiple All-America honors and cementing his profile as a legitimate impact power prospect entering pro ball. Offensively, Neville’s profile centers on power potential, particularly to the pull side, where his strength and natural loft allow him to produce loud contact. His swing generates leverage and backspin, traits that fueled his nation-leading home run total in college, but the aggressive nature of his approach can lead to swing-and-miss stretches against advanced sequencing. He has shown flashes of adjusting when he stays balanced and works deeper into counts, and continued refinement against offspeed pitches will be a key developmental focus as he climbs the ladder. Defensively, Neville has spent most of his time in the outfield with the athleticism to handle center field in certain alignments, though his long-term fit may ultimately settle in right field where his arm strength can play up. The overall projection leans toward a power-oriented corner outfielder whose value will hinge on how much contact consistency he can add without sacrificing impact. If the approach continues to mature alongside his natural raw power, there is enough upside for him to develop into a middle-of-the-order threat built around extra-base damage and athletic defensive value.
26
Ricky Cabrera
3B/SS/2B ----------- A+ Dayton Dragons
Age: 21
Ht: 6' 0"
Wt: 201
DOB: 10/31/04
Acquired: International Signing - 2022
B/T: R/R
Ricardo “Ricky” Cabrera has emerged as one of the more polished young infielders in the Reds’ lower levels, combining a strong baseball foundation with steady two-way development. Signed out of Venezuela, he arrived with a reputation for advanced instincts and defensive reliability, and his early professional seasons have reinforced that evaluation. Cabrera’s game is built more on consistency and feel than loud physical tools, but his steady progress — particularly with the bat — has made him a player the organization continues to challenge with increased responsibility. Offensively, Cabrera operates with a compact right-handed swing geared toward contact and gap-to-gap production. He shows a mature approach for his age, often working counts and staying within the strike zone rather than chasing power. While his raw strength is still developing, there are flashes of emerging pop when he catches the ball out front, suggesting he could grow into modest extra-base impact as he fills out physically. The key for his long-term offensive profile will be maintaining strong swing decisions while adding enough authority to prevent pitchers from attacking him aggressively in the zone. Defensively, Cabrera’s actions at shortstop stand out as a defining part of his profile. He shows clean footwork, reliable hands, and the internal clock needed to handle the position at a high level, with enough arm strength to make plays from multiple angles. His instincts and positioning allow his range to play up, giving him a chance to remain on the left side of the infield long term even as the system adds depth around him. The overall projection points toward a steady everyday infielder whose value is rooted in defensive stability and a contact-oriented offensive approach that continues to trend upward as he matures.
27
José Acuña
SP ----------- AA Chattanooga Lookouts
Age: 23
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 213
DOB: 10/20/02
Acquired: Tyler Naquin Trade - Mets 2022
B/T: R/R
Jose Acuña is a power-oriented right-hander whose development has centered on refining raw stuff into a more complete pitching profile. He joined the Reds organization as part of the trade that sent Tyler Naquin to the Mets, arriving with a reputation for arm strength and physical projection but still needing refinement. Since coming over, Acuña has gradually added polish to his delivery and overall approach, showing a more controlled tempo on the mound while maintaining the aggressive mindset that defines his pitching style. His fastball remains the foundation of the arsenal, typically operating in the mid-to-upper 90s with heavy life that can overwhelm hitters when he gets ahead in counts. The pitch generates both swing-and-miss and weak contact, but the long-term outlook depends on continued growth of his secondary offerings. He mixes a hard slider that flashes late bite and a developing changeup that has become increasingly important against left-handed hitters, though both pitches can vary in consistency. When his release point stays aligned, the overall mix plays like a true power repertoire capable of missing bats at a high rate. Projection-wise, Acuña fits the mold of a power arm who could impact a pitching staff in multiple ways depending on how the command evolves. The Reds have given him chances to build innings, but his velocity and intensity also hint at a potential high-leverage relief role if a shorter stint allows the stuff to play up further. Continued progress with strike throwing and pitch efficiency will ultimately determine whether he settles into a rotation depth path or emerges as a bullpen weapon as he moves closer to the upper levels.
28
JeanPierre Ortiz
SP/RP ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 21
Ht: 6' 0"
Wt: 180
DOB: 02/18/04
Acquired: Draft - Round 17 Pick 498 - 2023
B/T: R/R
JeanPierre Ortiz entered the organization as a 2023 draft arm with an unusual developmental background, having spent time as both a pitcher and position player during his college career before transitioning fully to the mound. That two-way experience shows up in his athleticism and body control, giving him a loose, coordinated delivery that the Reds believe can be molded into a repeatable foundation. Since signing, the focus has shifted toward refining his mechanics and building innings, with the organization prioritizing long-term durability as he adjusts to pitching full time. His fastball forms the backbone of the arsenal, generally sitting in the low-to-mid 90s with flashes of more velocity when he stays on time through release. Ortiz pairs it with a breaking ball that shows developing depth and a changeup that remains a work in progress but benefits from his natural feel for the baseball — a trait often seen in former two-way players. The raw stuff still trends more toward projection than polish, and his outings can vary depending on how consistently he repeats his release point, but the athletic base gives evaluators confidence that more refinement is coming. Long term, Ortiz profiles as a developmental starter whose ceiling will be tied to how quickly his secondary pitches and command catch up to the arm strength. His background as a college hitter has helped shape a competitive, adaptable approach on the mound, and the Reds have emphasized building pitch efficiency while simplifying his delivery. If the strike throwing continues to improve as he gains experience, he has the ingredients to grow into rotation depth, with the fallback of a power-oriented relief role if the stuff ultimately plays better in shorter bursts.
29
Jaset Martinez
1B ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 19
Ht: 5' 10"
Wt: 170
DOB: 12/15/06
Acquired: International Signing - 2024
B/T: L/L
Jaset Martinez is a young first baseman whose profile centers on physical projection and emerging power potential from the left side of the plate. Signed out of the Dominican Republic, he entered pro ball with a strong, projectable frame and natural bat speed, giving evaluators reason to believe there is more offensive impact coming as he matures. Much of his early development has focused on tightening his swing mechanics and building consistency against professional pitching, with the Reds allowing his natural strength and left-handed leverage to develop gradually as he gains experience. Offensively, Martinez works with a left-handed swing geared toward driving the ball with authority, particularly to the pull side when he gets extended. His raw power flashes in batting practice and has begun to translate more consistently into games as his timing improves. The main developmental emphasis remains his approach, as an aggressive mindset can lead to swing-and-miss against offspeed pitches. When he stays balanced and uses the middle of the field, his bat path allows for hard contact and carry, hinting at a future power-over-hit profile if the strike-zone discipline continues to progress. Defensively, Martinez has spent his time primarily at first base, where his size and hands fit naturally and allow him to focus on improving footwork around the bag. While first base places more pressure on the bat to produce, his growing strength and left-handed power potential give him a clear offensive pathway. The long-term projection points toward a bat-first corner profile, with continued physical development and improved contact consistency serving as the key factors in determining how impactful he can become within the organization.
30
Hansel Jimenez
SS/3B ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 19
Ht: 6' 1"
Wt: 179
DOB: 12/05/06
Acquired: International Signing - 2024
B/T: R/R
Long-levered and athletic, Hansel Jimenez has quickly emerged as one of the more physically intriguing young hitters in the Reds’ lower levels thanks to loud underlying contact data and a projectable frame. The right-handed infielder shows well above-average raw power for his age, generating impressive exit velocities and hard-hit rates that hint at significant offensive upside once his swing decisions and timing stabilize. Even during his DSL run, where he posted an .819 OPS with a blend of power and speed, evaluators were drawn more to the quality of contact than the surface production, seeing a hitter whose strength and bat speed already translate against professional pitching. At the plate, Jimenez works from a slightly uphill path with plenty of intent to drive the baseball, producing natural loft but also contributing to swing-and-miss tendencies that remain a central developmental focus. His strikeout rates and inconsistent contact ability reflect a hitter still learning to manage the zone, particularly against spin, though flashes of patience and walk rates suggest the foundation for a more controlled offensive approach. When he stays balanced through his lower half, the ball jumps off his barrel to all fields, and the Reds appear comfortable allowing him to prioritize impact over pure contact early in his development cycle. Defensively, Jimenez has split time between shortstop and third base, and his long-term home may ultimately shift to the hot corner as he continues to add strength. He shows solid range, a strong throwing arm, and enough athleticism to handle multiple infield spots, giving the organization flexibility as its system grows deeper with middle infield talent. Cincinnati has pushed him aggressively with winter ball experience in Australia, exposing him to advanced competition at a young age, and the next step will be translating his physical tools into more consistent in-game performance as he moves toward stateside full-season assignments.
31
Kyle Henley
CF ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 21
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 180
DOB: 12/15/04
Acquired: Draft - Round 14 Pick 408 - 2023
B/T: R/R
A right-handed hitting outfielder whose game is built around elite athleticism, Kyle Henley brings top-of-the-scale speed and defensive range that stand out immediately on the field. His offensive profile centers more on on-base ability and pressure than raw power, allowing him to influence games through tempo and baserunning rather than slugging output. The Reds have valued his energy and versatility throughout his minor league time, viewing him as a player capable of impacting multiple phases even when the bat is still developing. Henley works from a compact right-handed setup geared toward contact and line drives, using a relatively simple load and quick hands to stay through the middle of the field. The approach leans toward putting the ball in play early in counts, and while that helps maximize his speed, continued refinement of swing decisions will be important as he faces more advanced sequencing. He shows flashes of gap-to-gap impact when he stays balanced, but the overall offensive ceiling will depend on whether he can add enough strength to produce consistent extra-base contact without sacrificing his quick-twitch profile. In the outfield, Henley’s speed translates into plus range in center field, with enough instincts and route efficiency to project as a reliable defender up the middle. His arm plays closer to average but is accurate, allowing him to move around all three spots as organizational needs dictate. Cincinnati has deployed him as a high-motor depth option capable of filling situational roles, and continued growth as a right-handed contact hitter could position him as a future bench contributor who adds value through defense, baserunning, and lineup flexibility.
32
Austin Hendrick
RF ----------- AA Chattanooga Lookouts
Age: 24
Ht: 6' 0"
Wt: 195
DOB: 06/15/01
Acquired: Draft - Round 1 Pick 12 - 2020
B/T: L/L
Austin Hendrick’s development path has been anything but linear, with stretches of adjustment and mechanical refinement shaping much of his minor league journey so far. Once viewed primarily through the lens of his explosive raw power, the left-handed outfielder has had to work through significant swing-and-miss issues that slowed his early progression. Even with the uneven production, evaluators still see the same physical strength and bat speed that made him a first-round talent, and more recently there have been signs of improved rhythm at the plate as his overall offensive performance has begun to trend upward. Strikeouts have remained the defining challenge in Hendrick’s profile, stemming from a leveraged swing built to do damage but prone to timing inconsistencies. His setup includes a pronounced leg kick and aggressive intent to lift the baseball, traits that generate plus raw power yet also create vulnerability against quality sequencing. Over the past year, the Reds have emphasized simplifying his lower half and encouraging a more controlled approach, and flashes of better swing decisions have led to longer stretches of competitive at-bats and harder, more consistent contact. Defensively, Hendrick continues to profile as a corner outfielder with a strong throwing arm that fits naturally in right field, while his athleticism allows him to handle left when needed. Cincinnati has remained patient with his development, understanding that power hitters with this type of upside often require longer timelines to translate tools into production. If the recent improvements in contact quality and approach continue to hold, Hendrick still carries the ceiling of a power-driven run producer, though sustaining those adjustments will be key as he moves closer to the upper levels.
33
Ovis Portes
SP/RP ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 21
Ht: 6' 4"
Wt: 167
DOB: 12/03/04
Acquired: Lucas Sims Trade - Red Sox 2024
B/T: R/R
Ovis Portes joined the Reds organization in the trade that sent Lucas Sims to Boston, bringing with him one of the more electric fastballs among Cincinnati’s younger pitching additions. The right-hander has quickly drawn attention for his high-velocity heater, which can climb into the upper-90s and shows late life through the zone, allowing him to miss bats even when his command is still developing. While his professional track record is still in the early stages, the raw arm strength and athletic delivery give him a foundation that the Reds’ pitching development group has been eager to build around. Portes leans heavily on his fastball at present, attacking hitters with power and riding life up in the zone, and he pairs it with a breaking ball that flashes sharp bite when he stays on top of it. His secondary offerings remain a work in progress, particularly a changeup that is still developing feel and consistency, and overall strike-throwing will be a key checkpoint as he moves forward. At times his tempo can speed up, causing his release point to drift, but when he maintains balance through his lower half, the pure stuff plays at a much higher level. The Reds have primarily deployed Portes in shorter stints while focusing on refining his mechanics and helping him harness his velocity more efficiently. Given the strength of the fastball and the effort level in his delivery, many evaluators see a future power-relief role as the most likely outcome, though Cincinnati appears willing to give him developmental runway to explore a broader arsenal. Continued growth in command and secondary pitch usage will ultimately determine whether his high-octane profile settles into a late-inning bullpen path or retains some starter flexibility deeper into his progression.
34
Esmith Pineda
RF ----------- A+ Dayton Dragons
Age: 21
Ht: 5' 10"
Wt: 183
DOB: 11/13/04
Acquired: International Signing - 2022
B/T: R/R
Esmith Pineda has steadily worked through the lower levels as a contact-oriented outfielder whose value comes more from a balanced offensive approach than loud individual tools. The right-handed hitter shows a controlled swing and a willingness to use the entire field, often prioritizing line drives and on-base ability over chasing power. His production has tended to come in stretches, reflecting a player still learning how to consistently translate his approach into game impact as he faces more advanced pitching. Offensively, Pineda keeps a relatively simple setup with limited excess movement, allowing him to get the barrel into the zone early and handle velocity when his timing is right. The hit tool is built around bat control rather than strength, and while he can drive the ball into the gaps, over-the-fence power remains limited at this stage. Continued development will hinge on improving swing decisions in hitter’s counts and finding ways to produce more authoritative contact without sacrificing the contact-first profile that defines his game. Defensively, he has logged time across all three outfield spots, showing enough range for center field in shorter looks but likely fitting best in a corner role as the system grows deeper with athletic outfielders. His arm is average and plays cleanly thanks to consistent accuracy, and the Reds have used him in a variety of lineup spots while focusing on steady, incremental progress. The overall projection leans toward organizational depth unless another layer of offensive impact begins to emerge alongside his solid fundamentals.
35
Naibel Mariano
SS/3B ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 19
Ht: 6' 3"
Wt: 182
DOB: 09/06/06
Acquired: International Signing - 2023
B/T: R/R
Naibel Mariano has developed as a young corner infielder whose profile leans on physicality and raw strength rather than polish at this stage. The right-handed hitter shows flashes of power potential when he gets extended, driving the ball with natural loft to the pull side, though his overall production has been tied closely to how consistently he controls the strike zone. Much of his progression so far has centered on refining his approach and learning to handle off-speed pitching as he adjusts to more advanced competition. At the plate, Mariano works with a leveraged swing designed to produce lift, generating solid exit velocities when his timing is synced. The tradeoff has been swing-and-miss tendencies that can interrupt offensive rhythm, particularly when he expands against breaking balls early in counts. The Reds have encouraged a more measured tempo and improved pitch recognition, aiming to help him stay within himself and allow his strength to show up naturally rather than forcing power through overswinging. Defensively, Mariano has seen most of his time at third base, where his strong arm fits the position, though continued physical growth may eventually push him toward a corner infield role with less range required. His footwork and first-step reactions remain areas of focus as he works to improve consistency on routine plays. Cincinnati has taken a patient developmental approach, allowing him to grow into his frame while emphasizing steady gains in contact quality and defensive reliability rather than rushing his timeline.
36
Jay Allen
CF ----------- AA Chattanooga Lookouts
Age: 23
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 190
DOB: 11/22/02
Acquired: Draft - Round 1 Competitive Balance Pick 30 - 2021
B/T: R/R
A strong, explosive athlete, Jay Allen brings a speed-driven profile that stands out immediately in the outfield, though his offensive development has been uneven at times. The right-handed hitter has the physical tools to impact the game on the bases and defensively, but swing-and-miss has consistently been the primary hurdle throughout his progression. Even with the offensive inconsistency, the Reds have continued to invest in his development because of the way his athleticism translates across multiple areas of the field. At the plate, Allen shows quick hands and bat speed, but his swing can get long, leading to timing issues against both velocity at the top of the zone and secondary pitches away. He has shown flashes of driving the baseball when he stays balanced and keeps his approach simple, yet maintaining consistent contact remains the key developmental focus. The organization has emphasized improving pitch recognition and shortening his path to the ball, aiming to help him leverage his strength and speed without needing to overswing for impact. Defensively, Allen’s athleticism allows him to cover significant ground in center field, where his closing speed and range give him a strong foundation as an up-the-middle defender. His arm strength is solid and plays well on the move, and his baserunning continues to be an asset thanks to plus speed and aggressive instincts. Cincinnati has largely used him in roles that highlight his physical tools while allowing the bat to catch up, and any improvement in contact consistency would significantly raise the overall outlook of an already elite athlete.
37
Alfredo Alcantara
2B/3B/SS ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 20
Ht: 5' 9"
Wt: 165
DOB: 10/25/05
Acquired: International Signing - 2023
B/T: R/R
Alfredo Alcantara has worked his way through the lower levels as a right-handed hitting infielder whose game leans more toward steady fundamentals than standout tools. His offensive profile centers on contact and situational hitting, with a flatter swing path designed to produce line drives rather than lift. While the overall impact has been modest, the Reds have valued his ability to put the ball in play and maintain a consistent approach, allowing him to fill a variety of roles as organizational depth. At the plate, Alcantara keeps a simple setup with minimal pre-pitch movement, helping him get to the baseball on time against average velocity. He tends to stay within the strike zone and avoid chasing excessively, though the tradeoff is limited power output and fewer extra-base results. Continued development will likely focus on adding strength and learning to selectively attack pitches he can drive, as finding even moderate gap power would help his contact skills translate into more meaningful offensive production. Defensively, Alcantara has seen time across multiple infield spots, showing reliable hands and enough arm strength to move between second base, shortstop, and third depending on roster needs. His range is adequate rather than flashy, but he plays under control and makes routine plays consistently. Cincinnati has used him as a steady presence who can stabilize the infield at the lower levels, and his long-term outlook will depend on whether incremental offensive growth can elevate him beyond a versatile organizational role.
38
Victor Acosta
2B/SS/3B ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 21
Ht: 5' 11"
Wt: 170
DOB: 06/10/04
Acquired: Brandon Drury Trade - Padres 2022
B/T: S/R
Victor Acosta came to the Reds in the trade that sent Brandon Drury to the Padres, adding a switch-hitting middle infielder whose development has been shaped by both defensive versatility and offensive inconsistency. While he shows flashes of bat speed and the ability to drive the ball from either side of the plate, his progression has been slowed at times by swing-and-miss, leading to elevated strikeout totals that have limited his overall offensive impact. Cincinnati has continued to give him opportunities across multiple levels, focusing on incremental growth rather than rushing his timeline. At the plate, Acosta uses a loose, athletic swing with some natural lift, but his approach can get aggressive, particularly early in counts, which contributes to chase and missed contact against spin. The raw tools suggest there is more offensive upside than the numbers have shown, though improving pitch recognition and shortening the swing path remain key areas of emphasis. When he stays through the middle of the field and avoids trying to do too much, he shows flashes of gap power and a more controlled at-bat quality. Defensively, Acosta has spent time at both shortstop and second base, displaying reliable hands and enough arm strength to handle the left side when needed. His athleticism allows him to move comfortably around the infield, giving the Reds flexibility as they manage roster depth across affiliates. The overall projection leans on whether he can reduce the strikeouts enough for his defensive value and occasional offensive flashes to carry a more stable role as he continues to develop.
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Jirvin Morillo
C ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 19
Ht: 5' 11"
Wt: 177
DOB: 01/10/07
Acquired: International Signing - 2024
B/T: S/R
Jirvin Morillo has stood out early in his career as a switch-hitting catcher with a more advanced offensive approach than typically seen from young backstops. His ability to control the strike zone has been evident from both sides of the plate, reflected in a strong walk-to-strikeout ratio that highlights his patience and feel for at-bats. Rather than relying on raw power, Morillo’s offensive value has come from consistent swing decisions and a willingness to work counts, giving the Reds a foundation to build around as he continues to gain experience behind the plate. Offensively, Morillo uses a compact, balanced swing from each side, prioritizing contact and line drives over lift. His approach allows him to stay competitive even against more advanced pitching, though his overall impact is tied more to on-base skills than extra-base damage at this stage. Continued physical development will be important as he looks to add strength and drive the ball with more authority, but the organization has largely focused on preserving the disciplined plate approach that has defined his early progression. Defensively, Morillo is still refining the nuances of the catching position, working on receiving consistency, blocking technique, and game management as he develops rapport with pitchers. His arm strength is playable and shows flashes of quick transfer times, though overall defensive polish remains a work in progress typical for young catchers. Cincinnati has taken a patient path with his development, valuing the combination of switch-hitting ability and advanced plate discipline while allowing the defensive side of his game to grow with continued reps.
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Cole Schoenwetter
SP ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 21
Ht: 6' 3"
Wt: 190
DOB: 10/21/04
Acquired: Draft - Round 4 Pick 105 - 2023
B/T: R/R
Long and projectable with a loose, athletic delivery, Schoenwetter entered pro ball viewed as a classic high-variance prep arm whose pure stuff outpaced his present command. The Reds signed him away from a UC Santa Barbara commitment in the fourth round of the 2023 draft, betting on arm speed and spin traits that already flashed above-average during the showcase circuit. His fastball typically works in the low-to-mid 90s and can reach higher when he’s synced up, while his power curveball stands out as the defining pitch, showing depth and the ability to miss bats both in and out of the zone. The overall arsenal hints at a starter’s foundation, but execution has been inconsistent early in his career. Schoenwetter’s curveball generates most of his swing-and-miss, and there have been attempts to shape a tighter breaking ball or cutter off that foundation, though inconsistent release points and below-average strike throwing have limited its effectiveness. His changeup remains more developmental, flashing fade but lacking consistent usage, and outings have often been defined by elevated walk totals and shorter pitch counts as mechanical timing drifts. Within the organization, he still projects as a long-term development play rather than a fast-moving arm. Cincinnati has leaned into incremental workload building and delivery adjustments, prioritizing repeatability and tempo to help him access his natural stuff more frequently. If the strike throwing improves even to fringe-average levels, the combination of frame, spin and three-pitch potential could keep him on a starter trajectory, though the current risk profile leaves open the possibility of a future bullpen role built around the power breaking ball and fastball traits.
41
Pablo Nunez
LF/RF/CF ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 19
Ht: 5' 10"
Wt: 145
DOB: 10/23/06
Acquired: International Signing - 2024
B/T: L/L
Nunez brings a left-handed hitting profile built more around athleticism and bat speed than physical projection, fitting the mold of a developing corner outfielder with on-base traits. Signed as a young international prospect, he has shown a patient approach early in his career, working deep counts and demonstrating a willingness to use the opposite field. His swing is relatively direct through the zone with natural loft, though he is still learning how to translate contact quality into consistent impact as he faces more advanced pitching. Offensively, his game currently leans on contact ability and strike-zone awareness rather than pure power output. Nunez has shown flashes of gap authority when he stays balanced and keeps his front side closed, but his strength gains and swing efficiency will likely determine how much over-the-fence production develops. There are stretches where his timing drifts and leads to softer contact, particularly against velocity inside, yet his feel for the barrel and ability to control at-bats give him a foundation to build on as he matures physically. Defensively, he profiles best in a corner outfield spot, where his reads and routes continue to improve with experience. His arm strength is solid enough for right field, though his overall defensive value may ultimately come from reliability rather than highlight plays. The Reds have approached his development with patience, focusing on refining his offensive consistency and defensive instincts, and his long-term role will depend largely on whether his offensive tools evolve from a contact-oriented approach into a more well-rounded run-producing profile.
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Ariel Almonte
OF ----------- A+ Dayton Dragons
Age: 22
Ht: 6' 1"
Wt: 170
DOB: 12/01/03
Acquired: International Signing - 2021
B/T: L/R
Almonte stands out for his physicality and left-handed power potential, carrying a strong lower half and natural leverage that translate into loud contact when he’s on time. Originally signed as an athletic outfielder with offensive upside, he has spent much of his development focused on refining the hit tool to allow the raw strength to play more consistently in games. His swing generates easy carry to the pull side, and there are stretches where he shows the ability to drive the ball with authority to all fields, though timing and swing decisions remain ongoing areas of emphasis. At the plate, Almonte’s offensive profile is built around impact rather than pure bat-to-ball precision. He shows above-average raw power during batting practice, but his swing can get steep and lead to swing-and-miss against elevated velocity or spin down and away. The Reds have worked with him on simplifying his load and maintaining balance through contact, aiming to help him access power without sacrificing too much contact frequency. When he stays within himself and avoids over-rotating, the ball jumps off his bat with the kind of exit velocity that hints at future middle-of-the-order potential if the approach continues to mature. Defensively, he has primarily worked in the corner outfield, where his size and arm strength fit best, though his range is more adequate than dynamic. His reads and routes have improved with experience, and the organization has emphasized positioning and pre-pitch preparation to maximize his defensive value. Almonte remains a longer-term projection whose overall outcome will hinge on the development of his hit tool, but the underlying power and physical traits give him a clear pathway toward a run-producing corner role if the offensive consistency takes a step forward.
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Yerlin Confidan
OF ----------- A+ Dayton Dragons
Age: 23
Ht: 6' 3"
Wt: 170
DOB: 12/16/02
Acquired: International Signing - 2019
B/T: L/L
Confidan remains a developmental outfield prospect whose evaluation centers more on raw traits than present polish, and his left-handed bat gives the profile a bit of natural intrigue despite the overall risk. Signed out of the Dominican Republic for his athleticism and physical projection, he has shown flashes of bat speed and strength but is still working to translate those tools into consistent in-game production. The Reds have taken a patient approach, focusing on foundational development rather than pushing him aggressively up the ladder. At the plate, his left-handed swing produces occasional pull-side impact, though the overall hit tool is still in progress. He can get long through the zone, leading to swing-and-miss against velocity and breaking balls, and his approach remains a work in progress as he learns to manage counts and recognize spin earlier. There are moments where he stays short to the ball and drives line drives into the gaps, but maintaining that swing path consistently has been one of the primary developmental goals. Defensively, Confidan’s athleticism allows him to move around the outfield, though his reads and routes are still developing and point toward a corner-oriented role at present. His arm strength is playable and fits the profile of a left-handed corner defender, but overall defensive value will likely hinge on improving consistency rather than raw range. At this stage he projects more as organizational depth with physical upside, with future advancement tied closely to incremental gains in contact quality and overall offensive control.
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Nestor Lorant
SP ----------- A+ Dayton Dragons
Age: 23
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 205
DOB: 05/04/02
Acquired: International Signing - 2019
B/T: R/R
Lorant has developed as a lower-level pitching project built more on projection and pitchability than overpowering raw stuff at this stage. The right-hander works with a lean frame and relatively simple delivery, allowing him to throw strikes at a steady clip while continuing to build strength and velocity. Early looks have shown a fastball that plays best when located to the edges, complemented by a developing breaking ball that flashes shape but still lacks consistent finish. His arsenal is still in the refinement phase, with the organization focusing on helping him develop a clearer identity on the mound. The fastball typically sits in a modest velocity band and relies on angle and location rather than pure life, while the secondary pitches remain inconsistent from outing to outing. He has shown occasional feel for a changeup, though its usage varies, and much of his development has centered on repeating his release point and maintaining tempo deeper into starts. Within the system, Lorant currently fits more as organizational rotation depth while the Reds evaluate how his stuff progresses against higher-level competition. The developmental emphasis has been on building durability and sharpening command, with incremental gains viewed as more important than short-term results. Unless there is a notable jump in velocity or swing-and-miss ability, his long-term outlook leans toward a depth starter role capable of providing innings rather than a high-impact arm.
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Ryan Cardona
SP ----------- AAA Louisville Bats
Age: 23
Ht: 6' 1"
Wt: 200
DOB: 05/07/00
Acquired: Draft - Round 19 Pick 570 - 2021
B/T: R/R
Cardona has reached the upper levels as a strike-throwing right-hander who relies more on sequencing and efficiency than overpowering raw stuff. Working primarily as a starter in Triple-A, he operates with a controlled tempo and repeatable delivery that allows him to stay in the zone and keep innings moving, giving him value as rotation depth capable of covering bulk frames. His fastball plays best when he locates to the edges and changes eye levels, as the pitch is more functional than dominant on pure velocity. The arsenal is built around mixing rather than leaning on a single out pitch, with a breaking ball that serves as his primary secondary offering and a changeup used to keep left-handed hitters honest. Neither pitch consistently misses bats at a high rate, which places added emphasis on command and pitch selection, and his outings often hinge on whether he can avoid extended stretches of hard contact. The Reds have focused on refining his usage patterns and helping him maintain consistent release points, aiming to maximize effectiveness against advanced hitters who are less likely to chase. At this stage, Cardona profiles as upper-level pitching depth who can move between starting and bulk roles depending on organizational need. His experience in Triple-A suggests a level of reliability, though the overall ceiling remains tied to execution rather than projection. Without a clear swing-and-miss weapon, his path forward likely comes from continuing to provide stable innings and serving as experienced coverage within the system rather than projecting as a long-term rotation fixture.
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Christian Lopez
SP/RP ----------- Arizona Complex League
Age: 19
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 207
DOB: 07/06/06
Acquired: International Signing - 2023
B/T: L/L
Lopez has developed as a left-handed pitching project built more on feel and pitchability than overpowering raw stuff, working with a compact delivery that allows him to stay around the strike zone. His fastball typically plays in a modest velocity range, relying on angle and movement to generate softer contact rather than consistent swing-and-miss. The Reds have emphasized repeatability in his mechanics, focusing on helping him maintain a steady release point and avoid stretches where his command drifts. His secondary mix is still evolving, with a breaking ball that shows occasional shape but can vary in consistency from outing to outing. He has also incorporated a changeup that flashes average separation when executed properly, giving him a viable weapon against right-handed hitters. Much of his development has centered on sequencing and improving the quality of strikes, as his overall profile depends heavily on keeping hitters off balance rather than overpowering them. Within the organization, Lopez projects more as developmental depth than a high-ceiling arm, with his value tied to providing innings and maintaining reliability in multi-inning roles. The Reds have used him in flexible pitching situations while continuing to refine his command and pitch usage, and his long-term outlook will likely hinge on incremental gains rather than a sudden jump in raw stuff. If the secondaries continue to stabilize, he could settle into a role built around matchup versatility and steady execution.
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Angel Salio
3B/SS ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 18
Ht: 6' 2"
Wt: 170
DOB: 02/16/08
Acquired: International Signing - 2025
B/T: L/R
Salio is a left-handed hitting infielder whose profile centers on contact ability and defensive versatility across the left side rather than loud tools. He has spent time at both shortstop and third base, showing enough arm strength to make throws from deep angles while continuing to refine footwork and internal clock. Physically, he offers a lean, athletic frame that still has room for strength gains, and much of his development has focused on improving consistency rather than chasing immediate power output. Offensively, Salio works with a simple left-handed swing geared toward line drives and putting the ball in play. He shows occasional gap contact when he stays balanced through the zone, but the overall approach leans more toward bat control than impact, and his power production remains modest. There are stretches where his timing can get rushed against velocity, leading to softer contact, and the Reds have emphasized swing efficiency and pitch selection as areas of ongoing refinement. Defensively, his ability to move between shortstop and third base gives the organization flexibility, though his long-term fit may depend on how his body matures and whether his range holds up at short. His hands are generally steady, and his throwing mechanics allow him to complete plays on the move, though consistency remains a work in progress. At this stage he projects more as developmental infield depth, with future advancement tied to maintaining defensive reliability while continuing to add enough offensive consistency to support a utility-oriented role.
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Kien Vu
CF/RF/LF ----------- A Daytona Tortugas
Age: 22
Ht: 5' 11"
Wt: 185
DOB: 10/13/03
Acquired: Draft - Round 9 Pick 264 - 2025
B/T: L/L
Vu has developed as an athletic outfield prospect whose value comes more from versatility and steady progression than standout tools at this stage. With a lean frame and right-handed swing, he has worked primarily in the lower levels while focusing on refining his approach and learning to translate his athleticism into more consistent game actions. The Reds have used him across multiple outfield spots, allowing him to build defensive experience while his offensive profile continues to take shape. At the plate, Vu shows a contact-oriented approach built around keeping the ball in play rather than generating significant power. His swing is relatively compact, and he has shown the ability to work line drives to the middle of the field, though his strength and impact remain modest against more advanced pitching. There are stretches where he expands the zone and gets into unfavorable counts, making swing decisions and overall plate discipline a continued area of emphasis as he looks to become a more reliable offensive contributor. Defensively, his athleticism allows him to cover ground and handle both corner spots with occasional looks in center field depending on organizational need. His routes and first-step reads are still developing, but his effort level and ability to move around the outfield provide roster flexibility at the developmental level. For now, Vu projects as organizational depth with room to grow, with his long-term outlook tied to incremental improvements in offensive consistency and defensive polish rather than a single carrying tool.
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Ryjeteri Merite
SP ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 20
Ht: 6' 3"
Wt: 150
DOB: 12/16/05
Acquired: International Signing - 2024
B/T: L/L
Merite is a young left-handed pitching prospect whose development has been built around projection and gradual refinement, and his recent work in the Dominican Summer League has given the organization a longer look at his raw traits against consistent competition. He operates with a loose arm and athletic delivery that hint at future growth as he continues to add strength, and the Reds have taken a patient approach with his workload. His inclusion in plans surrounding Team Netherlands ahead of upcoming international play reflects developmental interest rather than present-day polish. The fastball shows flashes of life when he stays aligned through his mechanics, though overall command remains a work in progress as he learns to repeat his release point. His breaking ball can vary in shape but occasionally shows depth that suggests future utility, and he has begun incorporating a changeup that projects as a potential third pitch with continued feel development. At this stage, much of his progress is tied to improving strike consistency and learning to sequence pitches more effectively against hitters who are beginning to adjust to his patterns. Within the system, Merite fits as a longer-term left-handed project with some upside if his command and secondary offerings take incremental steps forward. The Reds have emphasized development over results, allowing him to focus on building a stable mechanical foundation while gaining experience in structured environments like the DOSL. His potential involvement in international competition provides another opportunity for growth, but his outlook remains grounded around gradual progression rather than immediate impact.
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Diego Pacheco
C ----------- Dominican Summer League
Age: 16
Ht: 5' 11"
Wt: 175
DOB: 03/10/09
Acquired: International Signing - 2026
B/T: R/R
Pacheco enters the organization as a recent international signing whose early development will revolve around building foundational skills behind the plate while adjusting to pro pitching environments. The young catcher brings a compact frame and developing physicality, giving the Reds a long-term project whose value is tied more to projection than present production. Early evaluations have focused on his work ethic and willingness to absorb instruction, traits that often define how quickly young catchers progress through the lower levels. Offensively, he shows a simple right-handed swing geared toward contact, with most of his current impact coming on line drives rather than over-the-fence power. His approach remains raw, as expected for a recent signing, and the organization has emphasized improving swing decisions and timing against higher-quality velocity. There are flashes of bat speed that hint at future strength gains translating into more gap power, but for now his offensive game is centered on developing consistency and learning to control at-bats. Defensively, Pacheco’s development behind the plate will likely determine his long-term outlook. He has shown early signs of solid receiving instincts and a willingness to handle pitchers, though his footwork and throwing mechanics remain in the early stages of refinement. The Reds typically move young catchers deliberately, and his initial years will likely focus on improving game management, blocking technique, and overall defensive polish, positioning him as a longer-term depth piece with room to grow as his physical tools mature.
