2 Reds prospects who could join Héctor Rodríguez before the 2026 season ends, 1 who won't

Cincinnati Reds top prospect Héctor Rodríguez made his Major League debut earlier this week against the Athletics. The Reds have high hopes for Rodríguez, but he might not be the only prospect to make his big-league debut before the end of the 2026 season.

Rodriguez was the sixth player in the organization to make his MLB debut this season, joining Edwin Arroyo, Zach McCambley, José Franco, Julian Garcia, and Ivan Johnson. While not many of the Reds' top prospects currently reside at Triple-A, there's a couple names to keep an eye on — especially once the rosters are expanded on September 1.

2 Reds prospects who could still make their MLB debut in 2026

Jose Acuña, Reds pitching prospect

Jose Acuña was part of the same 2022 trade that sent Rodríguez from the New York Mets to the Reds organization. Both players were packaged together and shipped to to Cincinnati in exchange for former outfielder Tyler Naquin.

Acuña began the year at Double-A Chattanooga, but has since been promoted to Triple-A Louisville. He's had his struggles against the upper-tier of competition, but still has a 4.68 ERA on the year. As the season winds down, if Cincinnati is out of the playoff hunt, don't be surprised if Acuña is given a chance to start a game or two during the month of September.

Carlos Jorge, Reds outfield prospect

Another prospect who's been part of the Reds' organization for quite some time is Carlos Jorge. Originally a second baseman, Jorge has made the switch to the outfield a few years back. Much like Acuña, Jorge received a midseason call-up to join the Louisville Bats, and he's been tasked with making adjustments when facing Triple-A pitching.

The diminutive Jorge relies on contact over power, and has a collective batting average of .278 the past two seasons combined. He's a tremendous athlete and above-average defender, but he may not provide enough offensive prowess to stick in the big leagues. Still, it wouldn't be surprising to see him receive an audition later this summer.

1 Reds prospect who'll stay in the minors until 2027

Leo Balcazar, Reds shortstop prospect

After the Reds decided to add him to the 40-man roster during the offseason, Leo Balcazar caught fire to begin his 2026 campaign. But having watched Balcazar all season at Double-A, it's become apparent that he may be further away from the big leagues than the Reds' front office originally thought.

After hitting just .241/.328/.364 at Double-A Chattanooga, Cincinnati's brass decided to promote Balcazar to Triple-A Louisville for the final two months of the season. If he was overmatched in the lower levels of the minor leagues, he may find Triple-A even harder. Don't look for Balcazar to join the active roster this season.

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