The Reds liked guys like Tyler Anderson and Kolten Wong, but they didn't last until the 27th overall pick. Instead, the Reds took a departure from their recent history of college selections, selecting righthadner Robert Stephenson of Alhambra High in Martinez, Calif.

Stephenson and Joe Ross were the top prospects in Northern California's high school class, and the BA list had Stephenson ahead of Ross, but at this point it comes down to personal preference.

Stephenson, a Washington commitment, touched 97 mph with his fastball this spring and had more consistent velocity on his heater than Ross, sitting 93-95 at times. He's also got a power curveball, and his package was good enough for the Reds to pop despite their recent preference for college picks. Stephenson is the first prep pitcher the Reds have drafted in the first round since Homer Bailey in 2004.