Big news from the Cincinnati Reds farm system! Two of their promising 2025 draft picks, Mason Morris and Brady Afthim, are already making waves and have earned a promotion to Single-A. Are these rising stars the future of the Reds’ pitching rotation? Their journey through Minor League Baseball just got a significant boost!
The Cincinnati Reds organization is buzzing with promising developments as two of its 2025 draft picks, right-handed pitchers Mason Morris and Brady Afthim, have officially been promoted to the Single-A Daytona Tortugas roster. This swift ascent for both athletes underscores the Reds’ commitment to fast-tracking top talent through their farm system and highlights the potential impact these young hurlers could have on the franchise’s future.
Mason Morris, a highly touted prospect, was selected by the Cincinnati Reds in the third round of the 2025 MLB Draft out of the prestigious University of Ole Miss. Known for his powerful arm and advanced pitching mechanics, Morris quickly made a name for himself in the Reds’ rookie league affiliates, demonstrating a command of his repertoire that impressed scouts and coaching staff alike. His transition to professional baseball has been seamless, indicating a readiness for higher competition.
Joining Morris on the Daytona Tortugas is Brady Afthim, who the Reds drafted in the 13th round from the University of Connecticut. Afthim, a collegiate standout, brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success from his time in the Big East. His promotion signifies a significant step in his professional journey, confirming the Reds’ belief in his ability to compete and contribute at the Single-A level.
Afthim’s collegiate career at UConn was nothing short of remarkable. He earned second-team All-Big East honors and etched his name in the school’s record books, finishing second all-time with an impressive 92 appearances. His durability and consistent performance made him a cornerstone of the Huskies’ pitching staff, showcasing his reliability in high-pressure situations.
Beyond his appearance record, Afthim also finished his UConn career tied for eighth in saves with 17, demonstrating his knack for closing out games effectively. Perhaps most notably, he held opposing batters to the lowest batting average against in school history at a paltry .211, a testament to his exceptional control and pitch deception. His 2025 season saw him post a 2-2 record with a stellar 2.70 ERA, nine saves, and a career-high 53 strikeouts.
The promotion of these two promising Cincinnati Reds prospects to the Daytona Tortugas is a crucial milestone in their professional development. Moving to Single-A provides them with a more rigorous environment, facing more seasoned hitters and adapting to the demands of a longer professional season. This experience is vital for honing their skills and preparing them for the challenges of higher minor league levels.
For the Cincinnati Reds, these promotions reflect a healthy and productive farm system, a critical component for sustained success in Major League Baseball. Investing in and developing young talent like Morris and Afthim ensures a pipeline of skilled players ready to contribute to the big league club in the coming years. Fans will be eagerly watching their progress as they continue their journey through Minor League Baseball.
The organization’s strategic decisions regarding player development underscore a long-term vision, focusing on nurturing potential into performance. As Mason Morris and Brady Afthim embark on this new chapter with the Daytona Tortugas, their performances will be closely scrutinized as they strive to become key components of the Cincinnati Reds’ future.
