Reds Select Right-Hander Chase Burns as Second Overall Pick in MLB Draft
The Cincinnati Reds have chosen Chase Burns, a right-hander from Wake Forest, as their first pick in the MLB Draft for the second consecutive year. Burns, 21, had an impressive season with the Demon Deacons, recording a 10-1 record and a 2.70 ERA in 16 starts. He transferred to Wake Forest from Tennessee and showcased his talent by striking out 191 batters in just 100 innings, with his fastball reaching speeds of up to 100 mph.
While some critics, like former Rockies general manager Dan O’Dowd, voiced concerns about Burns’ limited pitch repertoire and potential as a reliever, Tennessee coach Tony Vitello spoke highly of Burns’ determination and work ethic. Vitello praised Burns for his improvement during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasized his unwavering desire to compete.
Burns’ performance did not go unnoticed, as Keith Law of The Athletic ranked him as the fifth best player overall in the draft. Law recognized Burns as the top pitcher in the class and highlighted his exceptional strikeout numbers, leading Division I with 30 more strikeouts than any other pitcher. Despite acknowledging the inherent risks associated with pitching prospects, Law believed Burns was the best starter available and predicted that he could make an impact in the majors sooner rather than later. Interestingly, Law also noted that this draft marked a historic moment, with neither of the first two picks being born in the United States.
This is only the fourth time in Reds history that the team has had a pick as high as second overall, with their previous highest selections being Hunter Greene in 2017 and Nick Senzel in 2016. Greene, a right-hander, was highly touted but faced injuries on his path to the big leagues, including Tommy John surgery. However, he has shown promise since making his debut in 2022, signing an extension in 2023, and earning his first All-Star Game selection in 2024. Senzel, initially drafted as a third baseman, transitioned to the outfield due to injuries. After five seasons with the Reds, he was non-tendered and subsequently signed with the Washington Nationals before being recently released by the team.
Looking back at the Reds’ past top picks, six out of nine have successfully reached the major leagues. The three prospects who have not yet made it include last year’s top pick Rhett Lowder, who pitched a scoreless inning in the National League’s victory at the 2022 Futures Game. Outfielder Austin Hendrick, selected in the shortened 2020 draft, currently plays for Double-A Chattanooga. Cam Collier, the Reds’ first-round pick in 2022, impressed with a home run and the MVP title at this year’s Futures Game.
Other notable recent top picks for the Reds include shortstop Matt McLain (2021), left-handed pitcher Nick Lodolo (2019), 2018 National League Rookie of the Year Jonathan India, and catcher Tyler Stephenson (2015).
With the addition of Chase Burns to their organization, the Reds hope to continue their tradition of developing talented prospects into impactful major league players. Burns’ impressive performance at Wake Forest and his potential as a dominant pitcher make him an exciting addition to the Reds’ farm system. Only time will tell if he can live up to the expectations and contribute to the team’s success in the future.