The Cincinnati Reds focused heavily on the college ranks to kick off the 2026 MLB Draft. They selected five experienced players on Day 1. The organization maintained that they followed a “best player available” strategy. However, the results yielded a group of high-upside athletes. They also acquired established college performers. Amateur scouting director Joe Katuska expressed high confidence in the class. He noted that college position players are often ready to “hit the ground running” in the minor leagues.
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Justin Lebron, Round 1 (Pick 18), SS, Alabama
Justin Lebron is arguably the highest-upside player in the entire draft. He boasts explosive tools like 70-grade speed and 60-grade raw power. In 2026, he hit .277 with 16 home runs. He stole an incredible 42 bases in 43 attempts. He led Alabama to the College World Series. Scouts love his athleticism and strong arm, though concerns remain regarding his 19.6% strikeout rate and a .229 average during SEC play. Fans should know Lebron is a high-character addition who volunteers with the Miracle League, inspired by his younger brother, Jayden. While some fans compare his ceiling to Drew Stubbs, the Cincinnati Reds project him to remain at shortstop. They believe he will impact the game in multiple ways.
Eric Becker, Round 2 (Pick 58), SS, Virginia
A consensus top-15 talent entering the season, Eric Becker saw his draft stock slide due to a month-long hand injury. Despite the setback, he finished 2026 with a .317 average and maintains an elite career 1.048 OPS. Becker is a “hit-first” player. He has an excellent left-handed swing. He has a reputation for being a “gamer” who gutted it out through nagging injuries. While his power is currently below-average, his bat-to-ball skills are a major asset. He may eventually slide to second base. However, his toughness and pedigree make him a safe bet to climb the system. His brother Nick was a second-round pick in 2025.
Mulivai Levu, Round 2 Comp B (Pick 70), 1B, UCLA
Mulivai Levu brings a massive left-handed bat to the organization, coming off a 2026 season where he hit .340 with 18 home runs and a 1.063 OPS. His best tool is plus raw power, which allows him to drive the ball to all fields. He won a Gold Glove at first base in 2025. However, the Cincinnati Reds believe he has the athleticism to potentially test out third base. Levu is an aggressive hitter. He needs to cut down on his chase rate. His hand-eye coordination is world-class. He demonstrates this trait as a Samoan flame-twirler and expert pickleball player.
Tyner Horn, Round 3 (Pick 94), RHP, Nebraska
The first pitcher taken by the Cincinnati Reds, Tyner Horn is a versatile right-hander with a solid five-pitch mix. In 2026, he posted a 4.03 ERA with 87 strikeouts over 82.2 innings for the Cornhuskers. He spent time in the rotation. His stuff “played up” significantly in the bullpen, where his fastball touched 98 MPH. The Reds are excited about his physical ability. They believe he can potentially remain a starter. However, his floor as a high-velocity, late-inning reliever offers a clear path to the big leagues. This depends on his command continuing to improve.
Ethan Norby, Round 4 (Pick 122), LHP, East Carolina
Ethan Norby is a strikeout machine who set an ECU season record with 131 punchouts in 2026. Norby is undersized at 5’10”. He relies on an elite, high-spin slider that grades as a plus pitch. This slider has drawn fan comparisons to Sam Moll. He finished 2026 with a 7-3 record and 4.08 ERA. Scouting director Joe Katuska loves Ethan’s competitiveness. He notes that Ethan—brother of Marlins infielder Connor Norby—believes he is the better athlete of the two. He may project best as a slider-heavy reliever. However, his deceptive delivery provides a chance to remain in the rotation. His bulldog mentality also contributes to this possibility.
Overall Grade & Class Outlook
This Day 1 class is high on athleticism and college production. Fan reaction is mixed regarding the hit-tool risks of Lebron. Fans also have mixed reactions about the aggressive approach of Levu. However, the Cincinnati Reds clearly prioritized high ceilings and “best talent” over safe organizational needs. The scouting department feels they “crushed it.” Elite physical tools are at the top. There is a record-setting strikeout arm at the end. There is plenty for Reds fans to be excited about.
