The Cincinnati Reds are currently sitting at (25-26) which is good enough for third and just five games behind the NL Central-leading Chicago Cubs. Led by shortstop Elly De La Cruz and second baseman Gavin Lux there’s plenty of talent on the banks of the Ohio River. With those two leading the way along with pitching ace Hunter Greene there’s plenty of excitement in the Nnati as it pertains to the club’s future.

The club also has one of the best farm systems in MLB as well. It’s one that features five players in MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 prospects. Pitchers Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder lead the way along with second baseman Sal Stewart and shortstop Edwin Arroyo. But the most talented of the group could be third baseman Cam Collier the club’s first round pick (18th overall) in the 2022 MLB Draft.

Collier Returns From Torn UCL

Cam, the son of former MLB star Lou Collier made his return to the field this week after being out since tearing the UCL in his left thumb during spring training. While he went 0-2 it was more about just being back in the lineup. It was Collier’s first game since playing 119 games with the High-A Dayton Dragons last season where he put up a respectable slash line of .248/.355/.443 with a robust 42 extra-base hits. For his efforts Collier was recognized as the club’s 2024 Minor League Position Player of the Year.

Speaking with reporters Collier had this to say about being awarded that distinction.

“Winning it, especially after having the year I had before where I was struggling, being able to bounce back this year and have the success I did, it was really a blessing. To see that hard work pay off after that struggle, it was amazing.”

Collier Expected To Go To Double-A

Following his rehab stint, Collier is expected to make the jump to Double-A Chattanooga. It could Collier’s final step before he gets his call to the majors.

MLB Pipeline’s No.74 overall prospect and the Reds No.4 ranked prospect has an estimated major league arrival in 2026. Depending on how looks following this injury he could see time in the majors late this season.