Matt Ponatoski chooses between Reds and Kentucky Wildcats

Matt Ponatoski, the former Moeller High School football and baseball standout who was selected in the 18th round of the 2026 MLB Draft by the Cincinnati Reds, did not sign with Cincinnati before a 5 p.m. deadline for draft picks, and apparently will fulfill his commitment to play quarterback in addition to baseball for the Kentucky Wildcats.

>Ponatoski is listed as a freshman QB on UK's football roster.

>Reds director of scouting Joe Katuska said the team drafted Ponatoski as a pitcher.

>Ponatoski said in June the MLB draft remained his first option.

>In June, Ponatoski led Moeller to an appearance in the state title game in baseball, where the Crusaders lost to St. Xavier.

>Over the weekend, Kenny Ishikawa, selected by the Reds in the 13th round of the draft, announced via Instagram he's decided to start his professional baseball career for the Reds "after a great deal of thought … and careful consideration."

>Ishikawa's signing left the Reds with just two unsigned picks: Ponatoski and 15th-rounder David Hinojosa, who reportedly committed to Wake Forest.

>This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Matt Ponatoski chooses between Reds and Kentucky Wildcats