Reds Hot for MLB's Next Big Thing

Reds fans know talent when they see it, and they're loving Jay Bruce
By Katherine Thompson,  Newser Staff
Posted Jun 19, 2008 8:19 AM CDT
Reds Hot for MLB's Next Big Thing
Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jay Bruce is interviewed prior to his major league debut against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Tuesday, May 27, 2008, in Cincinnati.    (AP Photo/Al Behrman)

Forget Ken Griffey Jr. The Reds outfielder to keep an eye on is rookie Jay Bruce, the 21-year-old whose shirt sold out within 24 hours at the Great American Ball Park store. In his debut week, Bruce reached base in 22 of 33 tries, with 15 hits and 12 runs scored, SI reports. And he's a nice guy, too.

Even straight out of high school, Bruce had the talent that made some scouts call him the next Griffey. Junior himself is impressed with the rookie's hot start, saying that "He's doing a good job of taking the spotlight. After all the hype, I guess the fans are kind of excited to see him here." (More baseball stories.)

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