Surprise pick in MLB mock draft sends Reds unlikely prospect that bucks their trend

MLB.com's most recent mock draft continues to have the Cincinnati Reds linked to high school pitcher Seth Hernandez. While few MLB Draft experts and pundits will argue that Hernandez is the best prep arm in this year's class, there's inherent risk that comes with drafting a high school pitcher so early.

Baseball America, however, has a much safer pick and one that most Reds fans would probably relish. While questionable as to whether or not the Reds' brass would make this type of selection, BA's latest mock draft (subscription required) suggests that Cincinnati could nab Auburn catcher/ outfielder Ike Irish with their first pick in the 2025 MLB Draft.

Irish had quite the showing during the Tigers' run in the NCAA Tournament, which only added to his already impressive résumé. Though he split duties behind the plate and in the outfield in 2025, Irish is unlikely to stick at catcher. Though the Reds could undoubtedly use that type of catching depth in their farm system, Irish could be a high-upside outfielder — something else the Reds are lacking in the minor leagues.

Reds take a big swing in latest mock draft with selection of Auburn C/OF Ike Irish

The Reds' draft strategy in recent years has centered around the notion uber-athletic, up-the-middle players with an emphasis on snagging centerfielders, shortstops, catchers, and pitchers in the the early rounds of the draft process. That has netted the Reds such prospects as Matt McLain, Sammy Stafura, Chase Burns, and Tyson Lewis.

Nevertheless, Cincinnati has been known to step outside that mold from time to time. Perhaps they'll do it again this summer. Both Cam Collier and Sal Stewart, two of the Reds' recent first-round selections, were both third base prospects when they were drafted, but Cincinnati couldn't pass up the chance to secure two high-impact bats. Irish brings that same type of offensive profile to table.

MLB.com's mock draft predicted that Irish would fall to the Arizona Diamondbacks at No. 18, noting that he could go higher on Draft Day. In 55 games at Auburn this season, the 21-year-old hit .364/.469/.710 with 34 extra-base hits, including 19 home runs. Irish is seen as a hit-over-power prospect, something that would fit Hitting Coordinator Chris Valaika's game plan.

The Reds have done a fine job of stockpiling plenty of arm talent, but the lack of offense has shown up early and often this season. The Reds would do well to address this shortcoming during the first-round of the 2025 MLB Draft and then stock up on pitching during the later rounds.

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