Cincinnati Reds’ First-Day MLB Draft Picks Explained

The Cincinnati Reds have five selections on the first day of the 2026 MLB Draft, a two‑day event that begins with the top ten names. Broadcasting shifts after the initial block, moving from NBC and Peacock to a mix of MLB Network, MLB.TV and MLB.com for the middle segment. Viewers will need to tune into different platforms to catch each of Cincinnati’s choices, starting at number 18 on Saturday afternoon. The Reds’ picks are spread across the first four rounds, ending at pick 122.

Broadcast Details for the 2026 Draft

Ordinary fans can watch the first ten selections from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on NBC and Peacock. From 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., picks 11 through 40 appear on MLB Network, MLB.TV and MLB.com. The remainder of the opening day, through the fourth round, streams exclusively on MLB.TV and MLB.com. The draft wraps up on July 13 with rounds 5‑20 beginning at 11:30 a.m., also on MLB.TV and MLB.com.

Reds’ Five Picks on Day One

Cincinnati’s selections land at overall numbers 18, 58, 70, 94 and 122. The later picks fall after the early‑round window, meaning fans will have to switch streaming services to follow each choice. These positions give the Reds a range of talent, from early‑round prospects to later‑round value picks. The schedule ensures each selection is reachable, but on different platforms. This variety tests viewers’ ability to stay on top of changing channels.

Key Prospects to Watch

Jack Natili, a junior catcher for the Cincinnati Bearcats, stands out as the top Ohio prospect according to MLB Pipeline, ranking 74th overall. He also earned a spot as a semifinalist for the Buster Posey Award, recognizing the nation’s best college catcher. The image below provides a visual of Natili in action during the season.

Roch Cholowsky, a shortstop from UCLA, is expected to be taken first overall by the Chicago White Sox. His tools and athleticism make him a marquee name in this draft class. Meanwhile, Natili’s performance could elevate his stock as the draft progresses. Both players will be under the spotlight when their names are called.

What Comes Next

July 13 marks the final day of the draft, with rounds 5 through 20 beginning at 11:30 a.m. Fans can follow the remainder of Cincinnati’s journey on MLB.TV and MLB.com. The Reds will look to build on their first‑day acquisitions in the later rounds. The entire event ends with the conclusion of the 20th round, sealing the roster plans for many clubs. Stay tuned for the final chapter of the 2026 MLB Draft.