The Cincinnati Reds are clearly embracing a bright future, thanks to a wealth of young talent poised to make an impact in the majors. With standout names like Elly De La Cruz and Matt McLain already lighting up the diamond, the excitement only grows when diving deeper into the prospect pool, where players like Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder are making waves.
Burns leads the charge as one of the top prospects in the 2025 rankings, clocking in at an impressive 26th overall, with Lowder not far behind at 35. But the intrigue doesn’t stop there—taking note of a promising 20-year-old third baseman, who currently ranks 91st, it’s clear the Reds are nurturing a future star in Cam Collier.
Selected as the first-round pick in the 2022 MLB Draft out of Chipola Junior College and the son of former big leaguer Lou Collier, Cam Collier represents an exciting chapter for the Reds’ farm system. Heading into the 2025 season, he finds himself ranked as the fifth-best prospect in Cincinnati’s pipeline, a testament to the potential that has been brewing.
During the 2024 season, Collier spent his time sharpening his skills in High-A Dayton. While he began the year with a .231 average and a .714 OPS across the first 78 games, he showed glimpses of his potential when selected for the MLB Futures Game, where he seized the spotlight by going 1-for-2 with a commanding solo home run. That performance not only showcased his raw power but also earned him MVP honors, further solidifying his reputation as a player to watch.
Over the course of the entire season, Collier demonstrated his offensive prowess by finishing with a stellar line of .248/.355/.433, accompanied by 20 home runs and 74 RBIs. His achievement marks him as just the second Reds minor leaguer since the legendary Johnny Bench to hit 20 homers before turning 20, underscoring the significance of his accomplishments.
Looking ahead to the 2025 campaign, Collier’s skill set is tantalizing. His raw power is paired with impressive bat speed, and what sets him apart is his versatility at the plate. He has a knack for hitting the ball to all fields, evidenced by finishing the season with an impressive 35% hit rate to the opposite field. This ability makes him a dual threat, capable of launching long balls to right while also connecting effectively to left, a trait that can baffle pitchers.
Though he experienced some inconsistencies throughout 2024, he approached the end of the season with renewed vigor. In his final 38 games from July 25th to September 12th, Collier posted a remarkable slash line of .298/.445/.565, with his strikeouts matching his walks at 31—a clear sign of his developing discipline at the plate. His .333 average on balls in play indicates that he’s more than capable of creating offensive opportunities.
As the Reds contemplate their future at third base, they enter a fascinating period filled with choices. With talent such as De La Cruz and McLain solidifying their spots in the middle infield, the team has plenty of depth options for the hot corner. Jeimer Candelario, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Noelvi Marte also figure into the mix. However, Marte’s recent struggles and an 80-game PED suspension have cast doubt on his long-term fit, providing an opening for young talents like Collier.
Sal Stewart, another promising prospect, ranks just behind Collier in terms of potential, but his capability of playing second base could alter the Reds’ strategy moving forward. If it comes to packaging prospects in trade conversations, Stewart may be more expendable, while Collier’s upside as a cornerstone third baseman appears undeniable.
With all the pieces falling into place, Cam Collier stands out as a player primed to be a key figure in the Reds’ burgeoning success, offering a blend of power, versatility, and potential that promises to excite fans as the 2025 season unfolds. Keep an eye on this electrifying young talent—his journey is just beginning.
