Chicago Cubs: 2019 MLB Draft grades for NL Central

The Cincinnati Reds grabbed the best pitching prospect in college baseball with their first pick.

Here were the first five rounds for the Cincinnati Reds:

1st round, 7th overall: Nick Lodolo, LHP (TCU)

Lodolo was ranked as the number 1 pitching prospect in the draft. He made 16 starts for the Horned Frogs this season and struck out 131 batters while walking just 25 in 103.0 innings of work. His fastball reaches 94-95 mph and also features a devastating curveball with sweeping action. The fact that they were able to get him with the 7th overall pick is a terrific pick for them.

2nd round, 49th overall: Rece Hinds, SS (IMG Academy)

Hinds was ranked as the 42nd best prospect in this draft. He was projected to be a 1st-round draft pick, so this again is a great pick for the Reds. He primarily played third base but scouts don’t think he will stick at the hot corner. Hinds has terrific bat speed for someone his age. He has a commitment to LSU, so the Reds are hoping Hinds isn’t too disappointed he didn’t go in the first round.

3rd round, 85th overall: Tyler Callihan, 2B (Providence School of Jacksonville)

I am not quite sure how the Red lucked into this one. Callihan was ranked as the 35th best prospect so they had to be thrilled that he was still sitting there in the 3rd round. He hit 0.528 with two home runs USA Baseball’s gold medal run. Scouts like his bat but are not convinced he will stick at third base.

4th round, 114th overall: Ivan Johnson, 2B (Chipola College)

Johnson started his collegiate career for the Georgia Bulldogs but did not play much. He transferred to Chipola College for his sophomore season and slashed 0.381/0.491/0.587 with 9 home runs and 49 RBI’s in 57 games. The switch hitter can play both second base and shortstop while showing easy power from the left-side of the plate.

5th round, 144th overall: Evan Kravetz, LHP (Rice)

Kravetz became a full-time starting pitching for the Owls this spring after serving as a relief pitcher in his first three seasons. He tossed 80.2 innings and struck out 108 batters while walking just 32 in 14 starts. His fastball touches 92 mph and compliments it with a solid curveball although throwing for strikes has been an issue.

Five-round draft grade: A