One playoff team has proven the Reds' draft gamble works (but something's missing)

2025 MLB Draft | Jamie Squire/GettyImagesThe Cincinnati Reds’ decision to select prep shortstop Steele Hall with the ninth overall pick in the 2025 Draft came as something of a surprise. After all, Cincinnati had often been linked to pitching prospects, but the team did take the position of drafting the best available player instead of looking for a specific need. The problem here is Hall is entering a crowded shortstop picture in the Reds’ farm system. In order to relieve the logjam, the Reds need to look west…NL West that is.

The San Diego Padres know a thing or two about having too many shortstops. Seven of San Diego’s starters have big-league innings at the position, and Fernando Tatis…