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Alfredo Duno (Photo by Todd Kirkland/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
Alfredo Duno was simply happy to be part of the All-Star Week festivities by representing the Reds in the 2025 MLB Futures Game and all the events leading up to the prospect showcase. Little did he know, a pleasant surprise was waiting for him in Atlanta.
Last Friday, Duno stepped into Baseball America’s Prospect Pad at the Westin in Atlanta, immediately absorbing the buzz of the room—a space charged with anticipation, history and future promise. After carefully signing his name on the event poster, the 19-year-old strolled through the venue alongside his small entourage, which included his father, Bilfredo, and agent.
Together, they paused to admire the iconic magazine covers of Baseball America lining the walls—a visual timeline of stars past and present. Duno lingered at a few, quietly taking in the legacy he now found himself a part of.
As he turned around, Duno was stunned to see his mother, Emmer, just a few feet away. After a brief pause, a wide smile spread across his face as he rushed to embrace her. It was a joyful, unexpected reunion that made his All-Star Week all the more unforgettable.
“It was a huge surprise for me,” Duno told Baseball America in Spanish. “I knew my dad was going to be here, but I didn’t expect to see my mom here.”
Duno, who ranks 68th on BA’s Top 100 Prospects list and third in the Reds’ system, had dreamt about moments like this. Being selected for the Futures Game was extra special considering the adversity he has faced since signing with the Reds as part of their 2023 international class.
Duno’s bat has never been a question. He generates elite raw power that is especially impressive for someone his age, and his ability to drive the ball with authority stands out. When he squares it up, the results are often loud and impactful. He shows a solid understanding of the strike zone, demonstrating patience beyond his years. However, his swing can be long at times, featuring a sizable load and plenty of built-in leverage.
The issue, however, has been remaining healthy and showing what he can do behind the plate.
Injuries have interrupted Duno’s early development. Arm soreness kept him from catching during the 2023 Dominican Summer League season, and a broken rib cut short his 2024 campaign at Low-A Daytona. He was limited to just 21 games behind the plate before spending the remainder of the season on the 60-day…