Reds Draft Pitcher, Shortstop In First Round

The Reds drafted Nick Howard from the University of Virginia on Thursday
The Reds drafted Nick Howard from the University of Virginia on Thursday

The Cincinnati Reds added two new players to the organization on Thursday night.

The Reds selected Nick Howard from the University of Virginia with the 19th overall pick in the draft.  The 21-year-old pitcher throws 90-93 mph on occasion and has hit 98 mph during short relief.

Howard is a 6’4” Junior that pitched and played utility infield in college. He is from Olney, Maryland.

With the 29th overall pick in the draft the Reds chose a shortstop from Stanford University.

Alex Bandino, 21, was rated the 52nd best prospect by MLB.com.  He performed well in the Cape Cod League which may have led to a higher draft selection than anticipated.

The Major League Baseball Draft resume Saturday.