Chase Burns, widely regarded as the ideal pitching prospect, is a force to be reckoned with. Standing at 6’3″, with a fluid arm motion and a fastball that can reach speeds of up to 102 mph, Burns is the epitome of pitching talent. His slider is devastating, and his ability to strike out batters at an extraordinary rate was on full display during his time at Wake Forest, making him the #2 overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. His performance at Wake Forest and his physical attributes put him in close contention for the top spot in the Red Reporter Community Prospect Rankings, where he claims the #2 spot, just behind fellow prospect Rhett Lowder.
One of the few factors that kept Burns from the number one ranking is the fact that he has yet to gain any professional baseball experience, having been drafted recently. Additionally, Lowder’s exceptional talent and performance in 2024 played a major role in his securing the top spot. Nevertheless, both Burns and Lowder are neck and neck, which speaks volumes about their immense potential.
As for other notable players in the Reds’ farm system, Edwin Arroyo, a 21-year-old shortstop, is another rising star. In 2024, Arroyo only appeared in 18 games with the Glendale Desert Dogs in the Arizona Fall League after recovering from major shoulder surgery. Despite the setback, his defense remains among the best in the game, and his offensive potential, particularly as a switch-hitter, is promising. With a projected start in AA Chattanooga for 2025, Arroyo could continue to develop into a significant asset for the Reds.
Chase Petty, a 22-year-old right-handed pitcher, also stands out, having posted a solid 4.20 ERA and 1.34 WHIP in 2024 across both AA and AAA. While his walk rate spiked in 2024, Petty’s fastball that can reach 100 mph and his plus slider make him a strong candidate for a breakout year. He is expected to return to AAA to start the 2025 season, and if he improves his command, he could be a major contributor to the Reds’ pitching staff.
Cam Collier, a 20-year-old third baseman, had an impressive 2024 season, slugging 20 home runs and posting a .248/.355/.433 line with the Dayton Dragons in the High-A Midwest League. Collier’s strong strike zone discipline, with a 13% walk rate, makes him an intriguing prospect, though his defensive skills at third base remain a question mark. He may eventually transition to a different position if his defense at third doesn’t improve, but his bat gives him a solid foundation to continue progressing.
Sal Stewart, another top prospect, displayed excellent plate discipline in 2024, with as many walks (138) as strikeouts (139). The 21-year-old third baseman/second baseman also demonstrated raw power but missed part of the season due to a wrist injury that required surgery. When healthy, Stewart’s advanced strike zone command and emerging power make him a potential future star for the Reds.
Alfredo Duno, a 19-year-old catcher/DH, is another intriguing prospect. Although his 2024 season was cut short due to a rib injury, he showed flashes of advanced offensive skills and athleticism behind the plate. If he can stay healthy, he has the potential to develop into one of the top catching prospects in the system.
Finally, Sammy Stafura, a 20-year-old shortstop, had an impressive season in 2024, posting a .270/.387/.412 line with 8 home runs and 31 stolen bases. His speed and defensive ability at shortstop are top-notch, and his patience at the plate, evidenced by a 15.2% walk rate, shows great promise. If his power develops, Stafura could become a key leadoff hitter for the Reds in the future.
With so many talented prospects, the Reds’ farm system is brimming with potential, and 2025 promises to be an exciting year for these rising stars as they continue their journey toward the big leagues.
