Given the way the 2026 season has gone for the Cincinnati Reds, it's never too early for the fan base to look ahead toward the future. Will the team be buying or selling at the trade deadline? The answer is probably obvious. But let's take a closer look at the upcoming MLB Draft. The draft will take place on July 11th and 12th. It will be a time when the franchise will hope to find a pillar for the future. Before we get there, though, let's dive into the best. Here's a closer look at some of the best draft picks who left their mark on the Reds franchise. Johnny BenchJohnny Bench during a ceremony at Cincinnati's Great American Ball Park in 2017.
Syndication Usa Today | USA TODAY Network via Reuters ConnectWe're starting with Reds royalty. Catcher Johnny Bench was a second-round selection of the Reds back in the 1965 MLB Draft. Easily one of the best selections this franchise has ever made, or will ever make. Joey Votto Reds first baseman Joey Votto dabs in front of fans during a curtain call on June 30. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters ConnectJoseph Daniel Votto was another second-round selection for the Reds who turned into one of the greatest players in franchise history. The 2002 selection is a National League MVP and a staple of this franchise, and one that should be celebrated every season. Ken Griffey Sr. Jun 1978; Cincinnati, OH, USA; FILE PHOTO; Cincinnati Reds outfielder Ken Griffey Sr. (30) in action during the 1978 season. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectKen Griffey Sr. may be often overlooked due to the legacy his son built, but the Reds Hall of Famer created his own legacy in the Queen City. A 29th-round selection in the 1969 draft, Griffey Sr. went on to be a part of one of the greatest eras in Reds baseball history. Eric DavisJun 10, 1991; Cincinnati, OH, USA; FILE PHOTO; Cincinnati Reds outfielder Eric Davis at bat against the Philadelphia Phillies at Riverfront Stadium. Mandatory Credit: USA TODAY Sports | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectThe original 44, Eric Davis is one of the best players ever to wear a Reds jersey. An eighth-round pick in the 1980 draft, Davis spent nine seasons with the Reds and created a legacy that will be remembered for eternity. Reggie SandersUnknown date 1995; Cincinnati, OH, USA; FILE PHOTO; Cincinnati Reds outfielder Reggie Sanders (16) slides into 2nd base ahead of the tag by Montreal Expos infielder Mark Grudzielanek (4) during the 1995 season at Three Rivers Stadium. Mandatory Credit: USA TODAY Sports | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectA seventh-round pick in the 1987 MLB Draft, Reggie Sanders is another legendary figure in Reds baseball history. Sanders spent eight seasons in Cincinnati and, in that time, earned his lone MLB All-Star selection. Tom BrowningMarch 31, 2003: Former Reds pitcher and parade grand marshal Tom Browning waves to the crowd as the Findlay Market Opening Day Parade rolls down Fifth Street before the Reds Opening game.
