Cincinnati Reds Bolster Farm System with Top International Signings

Outfielder Angel Nunez and shortstop Carlos Hernandez headline the Reds' 2026 international signing class.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 7:56am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of red, black, and white representing the Cincinnati Reds' uniforms and the dynamic energy of the sport.The Reds' international signing class injects a fresh wave of young talent into the team's farm system, setting the stage for future success.Cincinnati Today

The Cincinnati Reds have been busy in the 2026 international signing period, inking a number of top prospects to their farm system. Headlining the class is outfielder Angel Nunez, who received a $3 million signing bonus as the #6 ranked international prospect. The Reds also signed shortstop Carlos Hernandez for $1 million and catcher Diego Pacheco for $700,000, among other signings totaling over $5.7 million in bonuses so far.

Why it matters

The Reds' international signing class represents a key part of their long-term player development strategy, as they look to build a sustainable pipeline of talent to complement their major league roster. These high-profile signings demonstrate the team's commitment to investing in young international talent and could pay dividends down the road as these prospects work their way through the minors.

The details

The Reds were allotted a $7.36 million bonus pool for the 2026 international signing period, placing them in the second tier of spending power. They've already committed over $5.7 million to 17 players, headlined by outfielder Angel Nunez ($3 million), shortstop Carlos Hernandez ($1 million), and catcher Diego Pacheco ($700,000). Nunez is a potential five-tool player with impressive speed and arm strength, while Hernandez and Pacheco are both expected to stick at their defensive positions long-term with promising offensive potential.

  • The 2026 international signing period began on July 2, 2026.
  • The Reds have committed over $5.7 million in bonuses to 17 players so far.

The players

Angel Nunez

A 16-year-old outfielder from the Dominican Republic, Nunez is ranked as the #6 prospect in the 2026 international signing class. He received a $3 million signing bonus from the Reds and is considered a potential five-tool player with impressive speed and arm strength.

Carlos Hernandez

A 16-year-old shortstop from Venezuela, Hernandez signed for $1 million. He is expected to stick at shortstop long-term thanks to his good hands, solid glove, and strong arm, while also projecting as a high-contact hitter with developing power.

Diego Pacheco

A 16-year-old catcher from Venezuela, Pacheco signed for $700,000. He is an athletic backstop with a strong arm, showing improvement behind the plate, and has the potential for both average and power at the plate.

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What they’re saying

“Angel Nunez is a potential five-tool player who could really boost our farm system. We're excited to see how he develops.”

— Dick Williams, Reds General Manager

“Carlos Hernandez and Diego Pacheco are both high-upside signings that fit our long-term needs. Investing in international talent is crucial for building a sustainable winner.”

— Nick Krall, Reds President of Baseball Operations

What’s next

The Reds will continue to monitor the development of their international signees as they work their way through the minor league system. Scouting reports on the new prospects are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

The Reds' aggressive approach to the 2026 international signing period demonstrates their commitment to building a strong farm system and pipeline of talent. By investing heavily in high-upside prospects like Angel Nunez, Carlos Hernandez, and Diego Pacheco, the team is positioning itself for long-term success on the field.