Cincinnati Reds 2020 MLB Draft: Three biggest needs

1. The Reds need pitching.

You can never have enough pitching. Despite great gains in the department, the Reds could easily select a pitcher in the first-round of the 2020 MLB Draft. Yes, Luis Castillo imposed his will on hitters last year and Sonny Gray made his second trip to the All-Star Game, but there’s a lot more to starting rotation and even the bullpen.

Castillo and Gray were fantastic last season. Both right-handers elevated their game, went to the Midsummer Classic and ranked in the Top 20 in terms of strikeouts and ERA in the National League. However, there are a lot of question marks behind Cincinnati’s dynamic duo.

First, Trevor Bauer and Anthony DeSclafani (40% of the Reds starting staff) will become free agents this offseason. With the coronavirus pandemic devastating team’s books, it’s hard to envision Cincinnati investing in either hurler long-term.

Wade Miley is 33-years old and will not be a mainstay in the Reds rotation. Top prospects Hunter Greene, Tony Santillan and Nick Lodolo will be called upon in the coming years to fill the likely void left by Bauer, DeSclafani and, eventually Miley. Tyler Mahle will be in the conversation as well.

The Reds could have their pick of the litter in regards to top-level college pitchers with the No. 12 overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft. Cade Cavalli, Reid Detmers and Max Meyer could all be available when Cincinnati makes its first pick.