Jay Allen II could ironically put another Reds prospect’s roster spot at risk

Writer Drew Koch suggests that outfielder Jay Allen II could secure a spot on the Cincinnati Reds' 40-man roster this offseason, potentially putting fellow prospect Leo Balcazar at risk of being outrighted. Allen, a 2021 draft pick, batted .280 at Double-A Chattanooga in 2026 before earning a promotion to Triple-A. Cincinnati may look to protect the 23-year-old from the Rule 5 Draft ahead of winter roster deadlines.

Meanwhile, Balcazar struggled in 2026, posting a combined .239/.329/.364 slash line across Double-A and Triple-A Louisville. Koch argues that Balcazar's offensive decline and defensive limitations make him a prime candidate to lose his 40-man roster spot as the Reds prepare for upcoming winter roster reshuffling.