C. Trent Rosecrans

crosecrans@enquirer.com

The Reds selected right-hander Nick Howard out of the University of Virginia with their first-round pick in Thursday's MLB First Year Player Draft.

Here's the scouting report from Baseball America:

"The Cavaliers have moved him to a relief role, where Howard has developed into an aggressive strike-throwing machine with power stuff and malicious intent. He was averaging 16.6 strikeouts per nine innings and had allowed just 18 baserunners through 23 innings. He pitches aggressively off a fastball that ranges from 93-96 mph and touches higher. Howard's curveball comes and goes, at times showing power and 12-to-6 shape, but he doesn't always throw it with conviction. He also throws a slider and changeup at times, all the while employing Virginia's trademark delivery that starts with bent knees. Howard's four-pitch mix and athleticism give him a chance to start, but he could zip to the majors as a reliever."

MLB.com's Jonathan Mayo said he thought Howard could reach the Reds' bullpen this year, but is likely a starter down the road.

MLB.com offered this scouting report on the 6-foot-3, 215-pounder:

"A Sunday starter as a sophomore and a two-way player throughout his career at Virginia, Howard settled in as the Cavaliers' closer in 2014. As a starter, both at Virginia and in the Cape Cod League, Howard would throw his fastball in the 90-93 mph range, occasionally touching 94. In short relief, he's been up to 95-97 and touching 98 mph."

Howard is 2-1 with a 2.15 ERA for the Cavaliers this year, recording 19 saves. In 29 1/3 innings pitched, he's struck out 50 and walked 12. He also plays third base, hitting .261/.314/.333 with one homer and 20 RBI.

The Reds also have the 29th overall pick as compensation for losing Shin-Soo Choo to the Rangers.

The second round is also Thursday, with the Reds picking No. 58 overall.

The draft continues on Friday with rounds three through 10, and finishes with rounds 11-40 on Saturday.