Every year, according to Tim Nehring, you need at least one prospect to deliver on his promise at the major league level. This past season, several tried and a couple succeeded. Those that helped:

Jeff Keppinger
A largely forgotten man after being traded for in late March, all Keppinger did was lead the International League in hitting, then proceed to tear the cover off the ball for the parent club as well, slugging .360 in 45 games. He can play 2B, SS, and 3B fairly well and has shown a penchant for both the big hit and timely at-bats. He's older for a prospect (27) and many see shades of Jon Nunnally and Chris Stynes, plaus the fact that he's really got no position aside from super-sub at this point at the big league level. Still, a great, great year from the former Bulldog.

Josh Hamilton
We all know his story of redemption and talent. Hamilton's been a revelation at the major league level, hitting .290 with pop and speed, while playing passable defense in any of the three OF postions. He's still relatively young yet (26) and looks to be a part of the Cincinnati club for years to come.

Jared Burton
After initially being banished to the back-end of the beleaguered Reds' bullpen, Burton burst on the scene as the set-up man for Weathers when Petey Mack took over. He's responded, recording a solid mid 2.70's ERA with a stellar BA against lower than .200. He's another 26-year-old and he's had troubles with the BB, but Burton's shone in limited time.