Kenny Ishikawa, Reds' 13th-round draft pick, announces decision

[ASFN Admin]

Kenny Ishikawa, selected by the Cincinnati Reds in the 13th round of the 2026 MLB Draft, announced via Instagram he's decided to start his professional baseball career for the Reds "after a great deal of thought … and careful consideration."

Ishikawa's signing, announced July 25 by the Reds, leaves the team with just two unsigned picks: 15th-rounder David Hinojosa, who reportedly committed to Wake Forest; and 18th-rounder Matt Ponatoski, who has committed to play quarterback for the Kentucky Wildcats.

Ishikawa, a pitcher and outfielder last season for the Georgia Bulldogs who was born in Japan, also was drafted in the sixth round by the Orix Buffaloes of the Nippon Professional Baseball league.


"This was one of the most difficult decisions of my life," Ishikawa wrote. "I feel incredibly blessed to have been in a position where both the Orix Buffaloes and the Cincinnati Reds believed in me, drafted me, and gave me the opportunity to pursue my dream of playing professional baseball. I have nothing but the utmost respect and gratitude for both organizations."

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This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Kenny Ishikawa, Reds' 13th-round draft pick, announces decision

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