NL Central Farm System Rankings: Reds pitching depth remains biggest strength

The National League Central Division has arguably the most young talent in baseball. According to MLB Pipeline, 24 of the top-100 prospects reside in the NL Central. Thankfully, several of those top prospects are in the Cincinnati Reds organization.

The Reds didn't graduate very many prospects in 2024, which was to be expected given the fact that so many young players made their big league debuts in 2023. The Reds farm system was somewhat drained a season ago after Elly De La Cruz, Matt McLain, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Brandon Williamson all made it to The Show, but Cincinnati still has talent in the minor leagues.

How does the Reds farm system compare to the rest of the NL Central? While Cincinnati still has quality players in their pipeline, there are a few farm systems in the division that rank more favorably.

NL Central Farm System Rankings: Reds pitching depth remains biggest strength

5. Pittsburgh Pirates

After graduating both Paul Skenes and Jared Jones last season, the Pittsburgh Pirates still have some other talented pitching prospects (Bubba Chandler and Braxton Ashcraft) who could debut in 2025. But the Pirates can't seem to develop good young hitters. The Buccos are hoping Termarr Johnson can change that narrative.

4. St. Louis Cardinals

Drafting JJ Wetherholt last July certainly elevated the St. Louis Cardinals' prospect profile, but they still lack a top-shelf pitching prospect in their farm system. The Cardinals are moving forward with a plan of building from within, so don't be surprised if St. Louis' farm system is much improved by this time next year. But for now, the Cards have a long way to go.

3. Cincinnati Reds

The Reds' farm system is not as formidable as it was two years ago, but Cincinnati still has some high-upside arms. Rhett Lowder proved he can be a key piece of the Reds rotation, and still maintains prospect status heading into 2025. The Reds also have Chase Petty, Zach Maxwell, and Chase Burns down on the farm with all three looking to make an impact next season.

On the position player side, both Cam Collier and Sal Stewart took giant steps forward last season. Sammy Stafura also showed out, and Cincinnati will be looking for healthy seasons from both Edwin Arroyo and Alfredo Duno.

2. Milwaukee Brewers

Injuries derailed two of the Milwaukee Brewers' top prospects. If Jeferson Quero and Robert Gasser return to form in 2025, the Brewers have a good group of young talent. Jackson Chourio (who'll likely receive NL Rookie of the Year votes) graduated, but Milwaukee's farm system is still strong.

1. Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs are stacked with minor-league talent, with most of their top prospects, including Owen Cassie, James Triantos, and even last year's first-round pick Cam Smith, on the verge of making it to The Show. But the Cubs have very little pitching depth among their top young talent, which could signal that Chicago is willing to trade some of their position player group in order to bolster the rotation.

More Cincinnati Reds News and Rumors