The Cincinnati Reds kicked off the second half of the season with a strong 8-4 win over the New York Mets, fueled by home runs from Austin Hays, Tyler Stephenson, and Matt McLain.
Off the field, the Reds had more reasons to celebrate. Their top pick in the 2025 MLB Draft, shortstop Steele Hall, signed for $5.75 million — below the $6.51 million slot value for the ninth overall pick. Hall, who recently reclassified and is still just 17, has drawn comparisons to Phillies star Trea Turner, though he’s still in the early stages of development. It’s likely he won’t debut until next season, following the Reds’ recent pattern with top prospects like Rhett Lowder and Chase Burns.
Third-round pick Mason Morris also agreed to terms. The former Ole Miss reliever signed for just under $900,000, beneath the slot value of $964,800 for pick No. 83. Known for his elite cutter, Morris might be groomed as a starter despite pitching only out of the bullpen in college.
Together, Hall and Morris’ under-slot deals free up over $800,000 in bonus pool money — potentially aiding the Reds’ efforts to sign other draftees, including second-rounder Aaron Watson, who remains unsigned. Cincinnati is also hoping to sway late-round picks Ethan Moore and Myles Upchurch away from their college commitments.
In addition to these signings, a notable Reds outfield prospect has been promoted to Triple-A Louisville, joining third baseman Sal Stewart.
