​PHILADELPHIA — The Cincinnati Reds continued to add versatility to their farm system, drafting another college hitter with a strong glove using their third selection in the 2026 MLB Draft on Saturday, July 11. After locking in two quick picks at shortstop to begin their day, Cincinnati turned its attention to the left side of the infield and came away with UCLA first baseman Mulivai Levu, selected with the 70th overall pick.
Levu, a standout at UCLA, is known for more than just his bat. He has earned two NCAA Division I Gold Glove awards, underscoring his defensive prowess at first base. Offensively, Levu was a force for the Bruins, delivering a .340 batting average while belting 18 home runs and posting an impressive 1.063 OPS. Those numbers helped UCLA reach the top seed in the NCAA tournament, where the program’s run would eventually end with an upset in the regionals.
A closer look at Levu’s profile highlights a player who blends solid plate discipline with gap-to-gap power. As a left-handed hitter, he does not rely solely on home runs; his approach features a polished swing that can drive balls to both fields, making him a versatile threat for a lineup that values balance between on-base skills and power. His defensive acumen at first base translates into high-end footwork, soft hands, and the ability to handle routine plays with reliability. Those attributes align well with a modern first baseman’s toolkit, where defensive reliability complements offensive upside.
Levu, 21, hails from Irvine, California, and has developed his game within one of collegiate baseball’s most competitive environments. The Bruins’ success during the season, which culminated in a number-one seed entering the NCAA tournament, showcased Levu’s contributions both with the bat and in the field. Although UCLA’s postseason run ended earlier than expected, Levu’s performance throughout the year solidified his status as one of the more well-rounded hitters in the draft class and a coveted option for teams seeking a college-impact player with international scouting appeal.
The industry’s pre-draft evaluations reflected a player who could contribute at multiple levels. MLB Pipeline ranked Levu as the 62nd-best prospect in the class, while Baseball America placed him at 79th. Those projections situate him as a mid-to-late first-round to second-round contributor, with a clear path to pro ball that leverages a proven college track record and a demonstrated defensive ceiling at first base. His combination of contact ability, power potential, and glove work makes him an intriguing prospect for a franchise looking to strengthen its infield depth with a player who can adapt to various organizational needs.
In the context of the Reds’ strategy, selecting Levu with the 70th overall pick signals a clear emphasis on acquiring college hitters who can contribute with both their bat and their glove. The Reds have shown a willingness to invest in players who can step into more immediate roles if needed while continuing to develop their tools in the minor leagues. Levu’s profile suggests a potential fit as a future everyday first baseman or a valuable depth piece who can provide coverage across multiple infield positions if required by the organization.
This acquisition follows Cincinnati’s earlier moves at the top of the draft, where the club targeted shortstops with its first two selections. By adding Levu, the Reds diversify their infield prospects and bolster a pipeline that could yield significant return if Levu reaches his projected ceiling. As with many college standouts, the transition to professional baseball will involve adjustments, but Levu’s proven track record at UCLA, along with his Gold Glove-caliber defense, offers optimism about his ability to adapt to higher levels of competition.
Overall, Levu’s selection represents a strategic addition for the Reds, aligning with a broader organizational objective of blending strong defensive fundamentals with offensive upside. If Levu continues to refine his plate approach and leverage his natural power at the minors’ levels, Cincinnati could find a durable contributor who can help stabilize the infield and provide a reliable left-handed bat in its lineup. The 2026 draft class has added a recognizable name in Mulivai Levu, and his path from Irvine to the professional ranks will be one to watch as he embarks on the next stage of his baseball career.