The Cincinnati Reds’ top 10 prospects headed into the 2013 season actually looks similar to how it did one year ago. However, that’s also a testament to the progress made by numerous players this past season.
After stealing 103 bases in 2011, the organization’s top prospect, Billy Hamilton, exploded for a record-setting 155 steals in 132 games while making substantial strides in his plate discipline and on-base skills.
Beyond Hamilton, the organization had two other top-10 prospects, left-hander Tony Cingrani and shortstop DiDi Gregorius, reach the major leagues as September call-ups. Furthermore, right-hander Robert Stephenson—the Reds’ first-round draft-pick in 2011—was exceptional in his professional debut in the Pioneer League, and even finished the season at Low-A Daytona.
The organization also landed three of its current top-10 prospects in the first two rounds of the 2012 draft: right-hander Nick Travieso, outfielder Jesse Winker and shortstop Tanner Rahier.
Although they have a solid crop of young players both on the mound and at premium positions, the Reds’ system lacks overall depth. But at the same time, with only a few holes to fill at the major league level, it’s not overly concerning at the moment.
Here’s a look at the Cincinnati Reds’ top prospects headed into the 2012 season.