Cincinnati Reds Re-Sign Former Phillies Draft Pick Julian Garcia to Minor League Deal
The Cincinnati Reds have re-signed right-handed pitcher Julian Garcia, a former Philadelphia Phillies draft pick, to a minor league contract. The deal, which includes an invitation to spring training, gives Garcia another opportunity to work his way back to the majors after spending time in the Reds’ minor league system in 2025.
Garcia, 29, was originally selected by the Phillies in the 10th round of the 2016 MLB Draft out of Metropolitan State University of Denver. He spent six seasons in the Phillies’ farm system, rising as high as Double-A before being released in 2022. Known for his deceptive delivery and ability to miss bats, Garcia has remained a steady presence at the minor league level despite never reaching the majors.
After a brief hiatus from affiliated ball, Garcia signed with the Reds organization in 2024 and pitched for their Double-A affiliate in Chattanooga. In 2025, he continued to show promise, posting a combined ERA in the mid-3s over 40 appearances split between Double-A and Triple-A. His strikeout rate remained solid, and his ability to work as both a starter and reliever added to his value as a depth option.
Garcia’s return is part of the Reds’ offseason effort to bolster their pitching depth after an up-and-down 2025 season that saw the team finish short of a playoff berth. Injuries and inconsistency plagued Cincinnati’s bullpen for much of the year, and Garcia’s versatility could make him a valuable asset if injuries hit again in 2026.
While Garcia has yet to crack a big league roster, his experience and perseverance make him an intriguing option to keep an eye on in spring training. If he can continue to build on his recent improvements—particularly in command and limiting walks—he could find himself in the mix for a midseason call-up should the need arise.
For Garcia, the minor league deal represents another chance to prove he can contribute at the highest level. He’s shown flashes of potential in the past, and with continued development, he may finally get the break he’s been working toward.
The Reds have had success in recent years uncovering undervalued arms and turning them into contributors, and they’ll hope Julian Garcia becomes the next name on that list.
