What happened: The Cincinnati Reds selected infielder Justin Lebron with the No. 18 overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft. MLB Network compared his tools to Reds shortstop Masyn Winn, calling him capable of doing many different things on the field.

Why it matters: The pick comes as Cincinnati sits 43-50 and has been advised by outside analysts to sell veteran assets before the trade deadline. Drafting a player likened to Winn, already an everyday piece in Cincinnati's infield, points to the organization prioritizing multi-position upside as it retools.

What to watch: Lebron begins his path through the Reds' player development system after being drafted 18th overall.