Matt Ponatoski, the former Moeller High School football and baseball standout, has made the bold decision to pursue his college football career with the Kentucky Wildcats instead of signing with the Cincinnati Reds.
Ponatoski, a freshman quarterback, was selected by the Reds in the 18th round of the 2026 MLB Draft. However, he did not sign with the team before the 5 p.m. deadline for draft picks, opting to fulfill his commitment to play both football and baseball for the Wildcats.
According to Reds director of scouting Joe Katuska, the team drafted Ponatoski as a pitcher. However, the young athlete had expressed his preference to pursue baseball in the past, stating in June that the MLB draft remained his first option.
Ponatoski's decision comes after his impressive performance with Moeller High School, where he led the team to an appearance in the state title game in baseball. The Crusaders ultimately lost to St. Xavier in the championship game.
Meanwhile, another Reds draft pick, Kenny Ishikawa, has decided to sign with the team, choosing to start his professional baseball career. Ishikawa, selected in the 13th round of the draft, announced his decision via Instagram, citing careful consideration and thought.
The Reds now have just two unsigned picks remaining: Matt Ponatoski and 15th-rounder David Hinojosa. Hinojosa, reportedly, has committed to Wake Forest, leaving Ponatoski as the team's last unsigned selection.
As the MLB draft continues to unfold, Ponatoski's decision to prioritize his college football career with the Wildcats has sparked interest in the football world. The Kentucky Wildcats' roster now boasts a talented freshman quarterback, who will undoubtedly be a player to watch in the coming seasons.
The Reds will continue to wait and see if Ponatoski will ultimately decide to sign with the team. With the MLB season just around the corner, time is of the essence for the Reds to finalize their roster and prepare for the upcoming season.
Ponatoski's decision to choose between the Reds and the Wildcats has raised questions about the future of his baseball career. Will he continue to pursue baseball with the Wildcats, or will he eventually return to the Reds? Only time will tell.
Source: Yahoo Sports