Cincinnati Reds: Who might they take at #5 in the 2018 Amateur Draft?

The Cincinnati Reds had another developing year

For the Cincinnati Reds 2017 was yet another rebuilding year. At 68-94, there is much room to improve. But, they have shown that they can reliably draft over the past couple seasons. The farm system has grown nicely, and there are several players close to the big leagues.

Furthermore, the Reds are injecting youth all over the diamond. There is not just one need for this club. The young pitching was abundant this year at the Major League level, but that doesn’t mean neglecting possible pitching targets in the draft. This team has had plenty of recent success in the Amateur Draft, such as Nick Senzel, Hunter Greene, and Taylor Trammell.

The Reds have been able to make the most out of their first round picks in recent years. That has accelerated their rebuild and producing substantial talent in the near future. The 2017 season did have plenty of missteps, i.e. not trading a few veterans for prospects. But other than that, the goal was to get better, and they did that. The younger guys have earned another year of experience under their belt.

With that, who would the Reds pick #5 overall in the 2018 Amateur Draft? Let’s look into all that.

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The Cincinnati Reds might draft another third base power bat

The Cincinnati Reds again have another top 5 pick, barely. With that, the front office will make the most out of that pick. In this draft class, there are a plethora of talented high school players. Expect the Reds to take on of those guys. Their most likely target is an offensive third baseman.

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High school senior Nolan Gorman is an elite bat beyond his years. He has a 4-year commitment to the University of Arizona. The Reds might be able to pry him away with a hefty signing bonus. This season, he has hit .383 with 8 XBH in 47 at bats.

The slugging lefty has a swift and level swing through the zone. He is patient at the plate and waits for a pitch to drive. He is a power hitter, but he doesn’t always swing for the fences, which is unique in a young prospect. Gorman translates the power from his back leg forward, and is able to reload when not swinging.

The infielder doesn’t look overwhelmed at the plate, and he has good composure at the dish. He is not afraid to stand on the plate. When in a 2-strike count, Gorman has shown that he can make contact as well. He reminds me of Royals third baseman Mike Moustakas, as he has that clean lefty swing that vaults the ball into the seats.

The overall scheme of things

The Cincinnati Reds have a key pick in the 2018 Amateur Draft as the rebuild progresses. With that said, they should take the best player possible. Nolan Gorman represents that possible player, if he is not taken with one of the first four picks. But, if the Reds nab him, fans should rejoice over the acquisition.

Next: A first look at Reds in free agency

A hit on this draft pick will be crucial for this franchise, as they could use another elite talent in the system. They have shown willingness to go out and get the best talent, no matter the position. Don’t be surprised if they go that route once more.