NFL Draft day is one step away from becoming a National Holiday.  The NBA Draft always draws a lot of attention as well.  How many people were aware that the MLB Draft starts on Monday Night? Not many I would guess.

No major sports draft in the US provides more "busts" than the MLB Draft.  There are so many more variables that go into making a MLB star than other sport.  So that makes me ask the question... Is the MLB Draft that important?  For teams that can buy a title the answer would be no.  But for the Cincinnati Reds, the answer would be yes.  Their success this year can be traced to past drafts.

Check it out:

Joey Votto - 2002, 2nd Round
Jay Bruce - 2005, 1st Round
Drew Stubbs - 2006, 1st Round
Mike Leake - 2009, 1st Round
Homer Bailey - 2004, 1st Round

These are just some starters that have found success this season with the Reds who were drafted by the organization.  So over the next few days, keep your eyes who the Reds grab.  You might just be seeing them at Great American Ball Park.  (Also, keep your eye on Yoner Alonso who was the Reds top pick in 2008 and is doing well in AA at this moment.)

Side Note: While not drafted by the Reds, Ryan Hanigan and Johnny Cueto were both signed as amatuer free agents by Cincinnati.  Those are nice pick-ups as well.

~ Jeff Archer