CINCINNATI — The Cincinnati Reds shocked the draft world today by selecting LSU’s top pitching prospect, Kade Anderson, with the seventh overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft.
Anderson, a polished left-handed pitcher, brings a powerful mid-90s fastball, a sharp curveball, a solid slider, and a deceptive changeup to the table. Known for his consistency and poise on the mound, Anderson led the SEC in strikeouts this past collegiate season and quickly became one of the most highly sought-after arms in this year’s draft class.
Scouts praise Anderson for his fluid mechanics, repeatable delivery, and ability to maintain velocity deep into games. His track record of success against top-tier competition in college baseball positions him as a frontline starter with high upside for the Reds’ pitching staff.
Reds’ general manager expressed confidence in the pick, noting, “Kade brings us a great mix of power and finesse, along with maturity beyond his years. We believe he can develop into a cornerstone of our rotation for years to come.”
Anderson posted a 3.68 ERA with 204 strikeouts over just 121 innings in his collegiate career, demonstrating the durability and skill needed to succeed at the next level. Despite recovering from Tommy John surgery earlier in his career, scouts remain optimistic about his long-term health and effectiveness.
With this selection, the Reds signal a commitment to strengthening their pitching depth and building a competitive roster for the future.
