Peyton Holt: From Open Tryout with the Monarchs to Affiliated Ball with the Reds Organization

When you refuse to give up on a dream, there is no telling what will happen.

For Peyton Holt, the 24-year-old utility player attended an open try out last month with the independent Kansas City Monarchs of the American Association and made the team despite the spring roster already being set.

After clubbing two home runs, five RBI, and drawing 11 walks over 13 games with Kansas City, while impressing defensively at third base and in the outfield, today the Cincinnati Reds purchased his contract.

It was the next step in his baseball dreams, expressing gratitude to the entire Monarchs organization.

“This was the ultimate goal, and I’m blessed to get the chance to go play for an MLB team,” Holt said in a press release. “I can’t give enough thanks to the guys here, the coaches,” Holt said. “I’m really grateful for the experience I’ve had here, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Kansas City manager Joe Calfapietra recognized Holt’s talents from the very beginning, and he could not be happier for his former player.

“We’re so excited about Peyton Holt getting this opportunity. From the beginning at the open tryout, you knew he was deserving,” Calfapietra said. “It’s a lot of hard work, and when it happens, it’s special.”

Peyton played two years at the University Arkansas, earning a Southeastern Conference (SEC) All-Defensive Team honor in 2024. He also spent that summer with the Fredrick Keys of MLB Draft League, hitting a home run and driving in three runs in 67 at-bats in 22 contests.

“I can’t give enough thanks. I’ve had a lot of fans, especially from back home, that have supported me since college. I really appreciate everybody giving me support,” Holt said, “It’s been a journey, for sure, and I’m just blessed to be able to have a chance to go play.”

Holt is the third Monarch to sign with an affiliated team in 2025. Infielder Matt Higgins, who trained with Kansas City in spring camp, was signed by the Philadelphia Phillies before the Monarchs’ season began. Pitcher Josh Bortka, a Kansas City native, signed with the Twins on May 15th.

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— Jerry Del Priore