Cincinnati Reds grab more raw power in Round 3 of the MLB Draft

After drafting Rece Hinds yesterday, the Cincinnati Reds began Day 2 by selecting more raw power with the 85th overall pick. Tyler Callihan, a high school third baseman out of Florida, was the Reds’ third-round pick.

The Cincinnati Reds added the No. 1 college pitcher on Day 1 of the 2019 MLB Draft with their first overall pick. Cincinnati then selected a power bat with the No. 49 overall pick last night and now have added another slugger with their third-round selection. Tyler Callihan, a high school third baseman out of Florida, was taken with the 85th overall pick.

Tyler Callihan, who’s rated as the No. 35 prospect in this draft class by MLB.com, becomes the third player chosen by the Cincinnati Reds in the 2019 MLB Draft. Callihan joins left-handed pitcher Nick Lodolo and third baseman Rece Hinds who were taken during the first two rounds on Monday night.

The Reds are going for raw power during the early going, taking two of the top power bats from the high school ranks. Hinds, who placed second in last year’s T-Mobile High School Home Run Derby to No. 2 overall pick Bobby Witt, Jr., has some of the most raw power of any prospect in this year’s draft. Callihan, however, is not far behind.

The difference between the two may be Callihan’s more polished approach at the plate. The biggest question mark surrounding Hinds was his hit tool, which graded out at 45. Callihan, on the other hand, has a plus hit tool with a grade of 55. The one hangup for Callihan, however, might be where he fits defensively.

Though listed as a third baseman, when the Cincinnati Reds made their selection he was referred to as a second baseman. He has a good, but not great arm, so he could stick at second base. Callihan even saw some time behind the plate during the Pan-Am Games. However, according to MLB.com, scouts are not sure if being a backstop will work in the long run.

Callihan has a verbal commitment to the University of South Carolina, so if he and the front office are unable to come to terms on a contract, Callihan could forego the opportunity to play for Reds and instead head to Columbia to play for the Gamecocks.

After taking the best college player at his position with their first pick, the Cincinnati Reds chose to go with power and promise in Rounds 2 and 3. If the Reds are able to sign both Hinds and Callihan, the gamble could pay off down the road.

The Reds have several minor leaguers, like Taylor Trammell, Jonathan India, and Jose Siri, waiting patiently for their chance to make a good impression at the next level, so restocking the cupboard with young talent is a solid move on behalf of the Reds’ front office.