When the Cincinnati Reds took rookie “Bam Bam” Cam Collier with the No.18 pick of the last year’s 2022 MLB Draft, the 17-year-old sensation was looked at as the top high school player in the nation. The fact that the six-foot-two- and 215-pound third baseman fell that far in the draft was a shock for many, but a blessing in disguise for a rising Reds franchise.

 

 

 

 

 

After lighting up the competition at Chipola JC in Florida with a .333/.419/.537 slash line, Collier didn’t miss a beat once the Reds assigned him to Arizona Complex League. There the dynamic teen continued his hitting and base-reaching ways with a .370/.514/.630 slash line, along with seven walks in just nine games.

 

  

Collier seemed to bring that same workman’s approach coming into the 2023 season with the Low-A Daytona Tortugas. In his debut he reached base five times going 2-for-3 with a double, three RBI, and three walks. Collier demonstrated patience at the plate rarely seen by veterans. But that’s what makes him special.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Collier Is No.63 Ranked MLB Prospect And Reds No.4 Ranked Prospect

 

  

Collier’s play and approach at the plate isn’t really a surprise to the Reds brass. In fact, scouting director, Joe Katuska says that’s what drew them to him.

 

 

“We think he has a really well-rounded package, but it leads with the bat and the very advanced hit tool.”

 

 

He Gets It From His Papa

 

 

Collier’s approach to the game is also something that the Reds brass are excited about. That can be linked to his dad Lou Collier, a former MLB player himself. Having that type of pedigree is wonderful, but it’s the tireless work ethic and tremendous power at the plate that stands out with Cam.

 

 

 

“We saw a player with a very pure approach at the plate,” Reds farm director Shawn Pender said. “He creates tremendous natural power for a young kid, uses the whole field and drives the ball to opposite field.”

 

 

 

 

Collier’s Strength Is Opposite Field Hitting

 

 

 

 

In last season’s small sample size, just 10 games, Collier demonstrated that opposite field ability. He collected nine hits through those ten games, four went to centerfield and five to left field. Not a single hit by the powerful lefty went to right field. The Reds view him as their future third baseman. Although they have other prospects, he’s the most talented. As soon as his defense catches up to his already advanced stick, he will be ready for his MLB introduction. 

 

 

The team has already stated that defensive improvements will come with reps and experience on the “hot corner.” If that happens, he’ll definitely be an everyday player for the Reds by the start of 2025 or soon thereafter.