This Reds' breakout prospect could be too important to ignore this offseason

Jay Allen II, a 23-year-old outfielder selected 30th overall by Cincinnati in the 2021 draft, has emerged as a breakout prospect after struggling for years in the minor leagues. In 89 games at Double-A this season, Allen is batting .281 with 15 home runs, 17 stolen bases, and a 121 wRC+, representing a significant improvement in his plate discipline and contact rate. The Reds should consider adding him to their 40-man roster this offseason to protect him from the Rule 5 draft, as other teams may now view him as an attractive prospect. Allen combines above-average outfield defense and speed with newfound offensive production after improving his in-zone contact rate to 87 percent.

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