Carlson Reed was drafted in the fourth round out of West Virginia, where he served as the team’s closer. He was stretched out into the starter role, having some success in 2024, striking out 130 batters over 108 2/3 innings. 

An injury delayed the start of his 2025 season and ended up pitching mostly in High-A Greensboro (minus one rehab game with Bradenton). The results weren’t as great as the previous year, posting a 4.08 ERA (4.84 xFIP) with 65 strikeouts over 70 2/3 innings pitched.

Throwing strikes was his biggest issue, walking nearly 20% of the batters he faced. He pitched fairly well in the Arizona Fall League, posting a 1.29 ERA over 14 innings, but, again, he walked eight batters to 12 strikeouts.

Reed has some of the best secondary pitches in the system, throwing a fastball (four-seam and sinker), slider, and change-up. 

The fastball is mostly in the lower-90s as a starter, but could get up to the mid-90s as a reliever in college. His control issues may force him back into the bullpen, but all indications point to him continuing to get a shot in the rotation still.

Altoona will be a good opportunity to see just how well the fastball will play, and what his long-term role might be.Â