Despite picking college pitchers in the first round over the past two years — Rhett Lowder in 2023 and Chase Burns with the No. 2 overall pick in 2024 — the Cincinnati Reds changed direction in the 2025 MLB Draft. This year, they selected high school shortstop Steele Hall in the first round and followed with prep pitcher Aaron Watson in the second. These players likely won’t reach the majors until at least 2029.
It’s notable because several college players who could have advanced more quickly through the system — such as hitters Ike Irish and Marek Houston, or pitchers Kyson Witherspoon and Jamie Arnold — were still available when the Reds picked at No. 9. Yet the team opted for younger, developmental talent.
This decision speaks volumes about the Reds’ expectations for manager Terry Francona. While many fans have seen Francona’s stint in Cincinnati as temporary — he’s 66, already a Hall of Famer, and previously stepped away due to health reasons — the team’s draft strategy suggests otherwise. Had they believed Francona was only a short-term option, the Reds might have prioritized more MLB-ready prospects to capitalize on his tenure.
Instead, by choosing players who won’t impact the big league roster for years, Cincinnati may be signaling a longer runway for Francona. Alternatively, the added depth could position the team to trade from its farm system at the deadline, especially if they’re looking to contend sooner.
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