Get ready for an exciting journey as we dive into the world of the Cincinnati Reds' top prospects! Our #17 prospect is about to be unveiled, and it's a battle between some incredibly talented individuals. But first, let's take a moment to appreciate the potential of Aaron Watson, who, despite not having thrown a single competitive pitch as a pro, has already made a big impression. The Reds saw something special in this high schooler from Florida, drafting him in the 2nd round of the 2025 MLB Draft. And the community has taken notice, ranking him highly in this year's Prospect Rankings.
Now, the fun part begins! We're down to the final few spots, and the competition is fierce. The list so far is a who's who of rising stars, with names like Sal Stewart, Alfredo Duno, and Rhett Lowder leading the pack. But who will claim the #17 spot?
Let's meet the contenders!
Liberts Aponte, SS (18 years old):
Aponte is a young gun with a bright future. In the 2025 season, he showcased an impressive .247/.368/.461 slash line with 7 homers and 9 stolen bases in the Dominican Summer League. His strike zone awareness is improving, and he's already a plus defender at shortstop. However, the question remains: Can he develop into a consistent hitter? The Reds certainly believe so, having invested $1.9 million in his signing.
Luke Holman, RHP (23 years old):
Holman is a pitcher with a unique story. After a stellar performance for LSU in 2024, he was drafted by the Reds in the 2nd round. Unfortunately, an elbow injury and subsequent Tommy John surgery sidelined him for most of 2025. But his potential is undeniable. With two plus breaking pitches and a fastball that sits at 91-94 mph, he could be a back-end starter with a quick rise through the Reds' system.
Mason Morris, RHP (22 years old):
Morris is a late bloomer with a four-pitch mix, including a fastball that can touch 100 mph. He's a former corner infielder who recently made the full-time switch to pitching. The Reds see potential, but the question is whether he'll develop as a starter or shine in the bullpen. With his age and lack of experience, the clock is ticking on his development.
Julian Aguiar, RHP (25 years old):
Aguiar is a comeback story. After a successful 2024 season that saw him rise through the ranks, he underwent Tommy John surgery, missing the entire 2025 campaign. But with a four-seam fastball that flirts with 100 mph and a potentially plus change-up, he has the tools to be a force. The Reds are likely to start him in AAA Louisville's rotation to rebuild his confidence and establish himself as a starter.
Mason Neville, OF (22 years old):
Neville is a toolshed with 60-grade power, a plus arm, and excellent speed. He led Division I in home runs during his final season at Oregon, and the Reds have shown their faith by drafting him twice. However, his small sample size with the Daytona Tortugas raises some concerns about his strikeout rate. But with his athleticism and ability to work walks, he could be a steal for the Reds.
Sheng-En Lin, RHP (20 years old):
Lin is a former two-way player with incredible athleticism. He's focused on pitching now, and his fastball can reach 97 mph. With excellent command and a three-pitch mix, including a curve and change, he's a strikeout machine. The Reds are excited about his potential, and if he continues to develop, he could quickly rise up these rankings.
Ricky Cabrera, 3B (21 years old):
Cabrera is a young talent with above-average power, speed, and a solid hit tool. He struggled in the cold weather of the Midwest League in 2025, but his potential is undeniable. With a strong 2024 season under his belt, he's a player to watch. The Reds are hoping he can recover from his knee injury and translate his batting cage success onto the field.
Tyler Callihan, IF/OF (26 years old):
Callihan is a left-handed hitter with plus bat speed and an advanced approach at the plate. He's versatile, having played multiple positions, but injuries have plagued him since being drafted in 2019. If he can stay healthy, he could be a valuable utility player for the Reds, especially with his left-handed bat.
And there you have it! An exciting group of prospects battling it out for the #17 spot. Who will you be rooting for? Remember, these rankings are a snapshot in time, and the future is full of potential.
(Don't forget to cast your vote using the Google Form linked below!)
