Tyler Stephenson
YEARTEAMGABRHitsRBIDTHRBBSOSBCSEAVGOBPSLUG
2022Ark Angels132511801327532012741082230.2580.3600.391
2023Ark Angels502173866291501115540010.3040.3520.525
2024Ark Angels98245265529132424700010.2240.2990.343
2025Ark Angels20791115105048240100.1900.2640.405
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 29 2025Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against San Diego. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson started the previous nine games but will hit the bench Sunday while in the midst of an 0-for-12 slump. Jose Trevino will work behind the plate and bat seventh in the series finale versus the Padres.
Jun 18 2025Stephenson is absent from the lineup for Wednesday's game versus the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get a routine day off after he started the last four contests, with three coming at catcher. Jose Trevino will replace him behind the dish and bat sixth.
Jun 14 2025Stephenson went 2-for-5 with a double, a grand slam and a second run scored in Saturday's 11-1 win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The backstop gave the Reds a 6-1 lead when he drove the first pitch he saw from Jack Flaherty in the fifth inning over the left-field fence. Stephenson has produced multiple hits in three of his last five games, and through 10 June contests he's batting .317 (13-for-41) with three doubles, two homers, six runs and 10 RBI.
Jun 11 2025Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get some rest for Wednesday's matinee after he started at catcher in both of the first two games of the series in Cleveland. Jose Trevino will spell Stephenson behind the plate in the finale.
Jun 8 2025Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson had started 11 straight games at either catcher or designated hitter, so he was overdue for a day off. Jose Trevino will be behind the plate Sunday, while Gavin Lux handles DH duties.
Jun 7 2025Stephenson went 3-for-5 with a double, an RBI single and a run scored in Saturday's 13-1 win over Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson contributed to the Reds' eight-run fourth frame with an RBI single that brought Will Benson home. It's the third time Stephenson has logged three hits, all of which have come over his last 11 outings. Over that span, he has gone 14-for-42 (.333) with four home runs and 10 RBI.
Jun 4 2025Stephenson went 1-for-4 with a two-run homer in Tuesday's win over the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson got the Reds on the board in the fourth with a two-run homer to right to even up the game. He now has four homers in his last eight games while racking up nine RBI over that span.
May 31 2025Stephenson went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run in Friday's 6-2 win over the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson's two-run blast in the fourth inning turned out to be the game-winning hit. He's gone deep in three of the last four games, going 8-for-16 during that stretch, and has reached base safely in seven consecutive contests.
May 29 2025Stephenson went 3-for-4 in Wednesday's 3-2 loss to Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson recorded his second three-hit effort in the last three games and has hit safely in four of the last five. He's 9-for-22 (.409) with four extra-base hits during that span, which increased his average 70 points from a season-low .173 to .243.
May 28 2025Stephenson went 1-for-3 with a walk and a solo home run in Tuesday's 7-2 win over Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson gave the Reds an early lead with his solo shot in the second inning, his second straight game with a home run. He's had a rough start after spending the first few weeks of March/April on the injured list, but Stephenson has come on recently, going 6-for-18 with four extra-base hits and five RBI over his last five games. He's batting .214/.321/.414 through 20 contests this season.
May 26 2025Stephenson went 3-for-5 with a two-run home run and an additional RBI in Monday's 2-1 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was the first three-hit game of the season by Stephenson, who also racked up a season-high three RBI. Monday also marked the 28-year-old backstop's first long ball since May 4, and he's now slashing .209/.312/.373 with two big flies, five doubles, nine RBI and eight runs scored through 77 plate appearances this season. Stephenson is still searching for a rhythm at the plate after missing the onset of the year due to an oblique strain, but he continues to operate as Cincinnati's primary catcher.
May 25 2025Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson started the previous six games but will take a seat Sunday after going 3-for-20 with two doubles, an RBI, three runs and 10 strikeouts during that stretch. Jose Trevino will step in behind the plate to catch for Nick Lodolo in the series finale.
May 24 2025Stephenson went 1-for-4 with a double, an RBI, a run scored and three strikeouts in Friday's 13-6 loss to the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson helped build the Reds' lead in the fifth inning when he doubled in a run and eventually scored. It was his second consecutive game with an extra-base hit, a positive sign for Stephenson, who is batting .186 this season. When he makes contact, it's been positive for the catcher/DH, who has a 54.8 hard-hit percentage, but that's been offset by a 41.2 percent strikeout rate (28 Ks in 68 PAs).
May 17 2025Stephenson isn't in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has gone just 4-for-20 with nine strikeouts across his last five games and will step out of the starting nine Saturday, allowing Jose Trevino to start behind the plate and bat eighth.
May 14 2025Stephenson is not in the Reds' starting lineup against the White Sox on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get a breather Wednesday after going 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in Tuesday's 5-1 loss to the White Sox. Jose Trevino will start behind the dish and bat sixth.
May 11 2025Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's likely just a standard rest day for Stephenson, who started nine straight games after being reinstated from the injured list May 2. The 28-year-old has enjoyed a good start to the campaign with three doubles, a homer and a .794 OPS through 36 plate appearances. Jose Trevino will step in to catch righty Chase Petty on Sunday.
May 4 2025Stephenson started at designated hitter and went 1-for-3 with a walk and a solo home run in Sunday's 4-1 loss to the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson finished off a productive opening series after missing the first five weeks of the season with an oblique injury. He had a pair of doubles and two RBI in his season debut Friday before whacking his first homer Sunday. He's operated as the designated hitter in two of his first three games back off the IL.
May 3 2025Stephenson started at designated hitter and went 2-for-3 with a walk, two doubles, two RBI and two runs scored in Friday's 6-1 win over the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was activated off the 10-day injured list and made his season debut after rehabbing an oblique injury. He caught several innings while on a rehab assignment, and having him DH was likely a way to slowly integrate Stephenson back into action. He was often used as a DH in past seasons to get his bat in the lineup as much as possible.
May 2 2025The Reds activated Stephenson (oblique) from the 10-day injured list Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is set to make his season debut after missing the first month-plus of the campaign with a left oblique strain. The Reds will carry three catcher for now, as Jose Trevino and Austin Wynns have both played well. Stephenson will be at the top of the catcher depth chart for the Reds but could be eased back into primary catcher duties.
May 1 2025Stephenson (oblique) went 0-for-3 with two walks and a run scored for Triple-A Louisville on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson started at catcher and caught nine innings for the third time this week, including back-to-back days Tuesday and Wednesday. He's expected to make at least one more start during the Bats' doubleheader Thursday before the Reds make a decision regarding his activation, MLB.com reports. Stephenson is up to 28 plate appearances while on his rehab assignment.
Apr 21 2025Stephenson (oblique) worked out with Triple-A Louisville this weekend and is expected to begin a rehab assignment Tuesday, C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has been on the 10-day injured list since late in spring training and hasn't played in a game since mid-March. That length of absence suggests he'll require a significant amount of at-bats before rejoining the Reds roster -- maybe 20-to-30 at-bats over a week. As a comparison, the Rangers' Wyatt Langford missed the minimum 10 days and returned Sunday from a less-severe oblique injury after only six at-bats (two games).
Apr 15 2025Reds manager Terry Francona said Tuesday that Stephenson (oblique) could begin a rehab assignment in one week, Charlie Goldsmith of the Dayton Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson strained his left oblique back in mid-March but appears to nearly be game-ready. He will require a handful of rehab contests to knock the rust off but should be ready for his season debut before the end of April if all goes well.
Apr 7 2025Stephenson (oblique) received more good news after undergoing an MRI on Monday, and he'll begin to be more aggressive in his recovery, Pat Brennan of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is continuing to fight through a left oblique injury, but another MRI showed that he's moving in the right direction. The Reds have yet to disclose a concrete timetable for a return, though he'll likely need to see at least a handful of at-bats in the minors before being activated from the 10-day injured list.
Mar 31 2025Stephenson (oblique) underwent an MRI last Wednesday that showed his injury was 80 percent healed, C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is scheduled to undergo a second MRI while the Reds on the road -- the trip runs from April 3 to 9 -- and there are no plans for him to travel with the club. In the meantime, Jose Trevino and Austin Wynns will continue to serve as the team's catchers.
Mar 26 2025The Reds placed Stephenson (oblique) on the 10-day injured list Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will be eligible for activation April 3, but it's unclear if he'll be ready to make his season debut by then while he continues to recover from a low-grade left oblique strain. He didn't appear in any Cactus League or exhibition games after suffering the injury in mid-March, so Stephenson will likely need at least a brief minor-league rehab assignment to pick up some at-bats before the Reds are comfortable bringing him back. In the meantime, Cincinnati will lean on Jose Trevino as its primary backstop, while Austin Wynns serves as the No. 2 option behind the dish.
Mar 23 2025Stephenson (oblique) showed improvement after being examined by a team doctor Friday, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson, who will open the regular season on the injured list, sustained a left oblique strain during spring training. He's been cleared to begin rotational exercises and is scheduled to undergo another MRI on Wednesday. If the MRI comes back clean, Stephenson can start doing additional exercises, which could include baseball activities. With Stephenson sidelined, Jose Trevino moves into the starting job at catcher with Austin Wynns serving as the backup, assuming the Reds don't add anyone from outside the organization in the coming days.
Mar 14 2025Stephenson will open the season on the 10-day injured list after being diagnosed with a low-grade oblique strain, Gordon Wittenmyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson underwent tests for what had been described as a back injury, but an MRI revealed a strain to his oblique. That the strain is considered minor gives Stephenson a chance to keep his IL stint brief, but oblique issues can linger. With Stephenson out, Jose Trevino will open the season as the Reds' top catcher. Cincinnati has just two catchers on its 40-man roster, which leaves non-roster invitee Austin Wynns as a good bet to be the No. 2 backstop when camp breaks.
Mar 13 2025Stephenson will undergo an MRI on his injured back Thursday, Pat Brennan of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson had to be scratched from Wednesday's Cactus League lineup against the Rangers. Reds manager Terry Francona downplayed the injury at the time, but it seems Stephenson hasn't bounced back as quickly as hoped, necessitating the MRI. Francona said the team should have an update on Stephenson's condition later Thursday or Friday.
Feb 28 2025New Reds manager Terry Francona doesn't intend to use Stephenson as a first baseman on days he's not catching, Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will still get some reps at DH when Jose Trevino is behind the plate, but Francona wants to keep Stephenson off the field when he's not catching. The practical consequence of this is that Stephenson could get a handful fewer plate appearances, especially with the Reds carrying a legitimate backup in Trevino.
Jan 9 2025Stephenson agreed to a one-year, $4.925 million contract with the Reds on Thursday to avoid arbitration, Ari Alexander of KPRC 2 Houston reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson receives a $2.4 million raise in his second year of arbitration eligibility after slashing .258/.338/.444 and setting new career highs with 19 homers, 69 runs scored and 66 RBI in 2024. The Reds' offseason acquisition of Jose Trevino shouldn't cut too much into Stephenson's playing time, and the 28-year-old still projects as one of the better offensive backstops in the majors.
Sep 20 2024Stephenson went 3-for-5 with a home run, a double, five RBI and three total runs scored in Friday's 8-3 win over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson opened the scoring with a solo home run off Mitch Keller in the first inning before driving in three more runs with a bases-clearing double in the third. Stephenson would pick up a fifth RBI with his third hit in the fourth. The 28-year-old catcher has gone 8-for-14 over his last five games, boosting his slash line to .265/.344/.459 on the season with 19 homers, 64 RBI and 67 runs scored across 486 plate appearances.
Sep 19 2024Stephenson is absent from Thursday's lineup versus Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson started the first two games of the series and had made six straight starts overall, but he'll be given some rest during Thursday's afternoon contest. Luke Maile will do the catching for the Reds.
Sep 11 2024Stephenson is not in the lineup for Wednesday's game in St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson had started eight of the last nine contests, including the series opener Tuesday, but he'll begin Wednesday's contest on the bench. Luke Maile will handle catching duties for the Reds.
Sep 8 2024Stephenson is not in the starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will take a seat Sunday after going 1-for-6 with three strikeouts over the first two games of the series. Luke Maile will start behind home plate and bat ninth against Mets right-hander Luis Severino.
Sep 5 2024Stephenson went 2-for-4 with three RBI in Wednesday's 12-5 win over the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson capped the scoring in the Reds' nine-run first inning with a two-run single and later singled in a run in the third. The three-RBI game elevated him to a career-high 58 for the season.
Aug 31 2024Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Saturday versus Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After going 0-for-4 with a strikeout in the second game of Friday's twin bill, Stephenson will sit down against Frankie Montas and the Brewers on Saturday. Luke Maile will get the starting nod at catcher instead and bat ninth.
Aug 30 2024Stephenson is absent from the lineup in the first game of Friday's doubleheader against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll get a breather for the afternoon contest but should catch the second game of the twin bill. Luke Maile will be behind the dish for the early game.
Aug 29 2024Stephenson went 3-for-5 with a solo home run and an additional RBI in Thursday's 10-9 win over the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson extended his hitting streak to 13 games, a span in which he's gone 20-for-51 (.392) with three homers, five doubles, 10 RBI and 13 runs scored. This was his fifth multi-hit effort during the streak. Stephenson is up to a .265/.341/.478 slash line with 18 homers, 55 RBI, 62 runs scored, 23 doubles and one stolen base over 113 contests this season. He's been held hitless just four times over 23 games in August.
Aug 23 2024Stephenson went 2-for-3 with a solo home run, a walk and an additional run scored in Friday's 6-5 loss to the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson launched his sixth August home run 436 feet in the top of the first inning. The catcher has hit safely in nine of his past 10 games, going deep three times and driving in seven runs. On the season, he is hitting .254 with 17 homers, 51 RBI and 56 runs scored across 393 plate appearances.
Aug 22 2024Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup for Thursday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is currently enjoying a seven-game hitting streak, during which he's gone 9-for-29 with a home run and five RBI. He'll get a breather Thursday while Luke Maile catches for Nick Lodolo and bats ninth.
Aug 18 2024Stephenson is not in the starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson went 3-for-7 with two doubles and one RBI across the first two games of the series. Luke Maile will start behind home plate and bat ninth against Kansas City right-hander Brady Singer.
Aug 11 2024Stephenson went 2-for-3 with a solo home run during Sunday's 4-3 win over the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson took DL Hall yard for a solo homer with two outs in the fifth inning, putting Cincinnati ahead 3-2. The long ball was Stephenson's fourth in August, and he's batting 10-for-32 (.313) with nine RBI during the month. He's slashing .248/.327/.454 on the year.
Aug 9 2024Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup for Friday's game versus the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stepehnson will get a breather during Friday's series opener after going 6-for-18 with a homer and four RBI during Cincinnati's four-game set against Miami. Luke Maile will do the catching for right-hander Carson Spiers and bat ninth.
Aug 6 2024Stephenson went 2-for-5 with a solo home run and a second RBI in Tuesday's 8-2 win over the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson got the scoring started Tuesday with a 418-foot blast off Max Meyer to lead off the second inning. It's the 14th long ball of the year for the 27-year-old backstop, setting a new career high. Stephenson's gone 9-for-27 (.333) with three homers in his last eight games. He's slashing .243/.320/.443 through 337 plate appearances this season with 42 RBI and 46 runs scored across 337 plate appearances.
Aug 4 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson had started at either catcher or designated hitter in each of the Reds' last 10 games, so he'll be getting a well-deserved day off while Cincinnati and San Francisco wrap up their series with a game that begins at 12:05 p.m. ET. Luke Maile will check in behind the dish in place of Stephenson, who ended a 10-game streak without an extra-base hit by slugging two home runs in Saturday's 6-4 win.
Aug 3 2024Stephenson went 2-for-4 with a pair of home runs and four RBI in Saturday's 6-4 win against San Francisco. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson kicked off the scoring with a solo shot in the second inning and added a three-run blast in the fourth. The homers were the first extra-base hits of any kind for the backstop over his past 11 games, and the four RBI were twice as many as he had accounted for over his previous 15 contests combined. This was Stephenson's second multi-homer performance of the campaign, and with his two long balls Saturday he's at 13 on the season, tying the career-high mark he established last year.
Jul 24 2024Stephenson is not in the lineup for the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader in Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson went 1-for-3 with two walks and two runs while catching all nine innings of the Reds' 9-4 win in the first game of the day, so his absence from the lineup from the nightcap is expected. Austin Wynns will start behind the plate for the Reds in Game 2.
Jul 21 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson went 1-for-6 with a solo home run and two walks while starting behind the plate in the first two games of the series, but he'll be given the afternoon off as the Reds look to avoid a three-game sweep in Washington. Austin Wynns will draw the start at catcher Sunday.
Jul 11 2024Stephenson went 2-for-5 with two home runs and five RBI in Thursday's 8-1 win over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson's three-run shot in the third inning was all the Reds needed, but he added another homer -- a two-run blast -- in the seventh. It was quite a series for the catcher, who mashed four home runs and drove in eight over the three-game set. The 27-year-old backstop is up to 10 home runs in 76 games, putting him on pace to wipe out the career-high 13 swatted in 2023.
Jul 10 2024Stephenson went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and a double in Wednesday's 6-5 loss to the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has feasted on Colorado pitching, going 6-for-13 with five extra-base hits over the first three games of this week's series. Prior to Tuesday, he had gone 22 games without a multi-hit effort. The catcher is now at a .245/.318/.425 slash line with eight homers, 29 RBI, 34 runs scored, 16 doubles and one stolen base over 75 contests.
Jul 7 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After catching in the first two games of the series and going 1-for-8 with a double and two RBI, Stephenson will get a breather for the finale. Austin Wynns checks in for Stephenson behind the plate.
Jul 4 2024Stephenson is not in the lineup for Thursday's game against the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was behind the dish for the first two games of the series, so it makes sense to give him a breather for Thursday's matinee. Luke Maile will do the catching for Frankie Montas.
Jul 3 2024Stephenson started at catcher, batted fifth and went 0-for-3 with a walk in Tuesday's 5-4 win over the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson's availability to play was thrown into doubt after the Reds transferred him from the paternity list to the family medical emergency list. The transfer gave the Reds the option to not activate Stephenson for Tuesday, but the catcher was ready to go.
Jul 2 2024The Reds activated Stephenson (personal) from the family medical emergency list Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was away from the club for a few days following the birth of his child but is back for the start of its series in New York against the Yankees. Austin Wynns was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.
Jul 1 2024The Reds transferred Stephenson (personal) from the paternity list to the family medical emergency list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson had been away for the last three games while on the paternity list. By rule, players can miss 3-to-7 days while on the family medical emergency list, whereas he would have to be activated ahead of Tuesday's game against the Yankees had he remained on the paternity list. Luke Maile and Austin Wynns will handle catching duties for Cincinnati while Stephenson is away.
Jun 28 2024Stephenson was placed on the paternity list Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was scratched from Thursday's game to be present for the birth of his child and, as expected, was placed on the paternity list Friday. By rule, he can miss up to two additional games.
Jun 27 2024Stephenson was scratched from Thursday's lineup against the Cardinals, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was scratched moments before first pitch to be present for the birth of his child. He'll likely be placed on the paternity list and will miss between one and three additional games. Luke Maile took over behind the dish.
Jun 24 2024Stephenson started at catcher and went 1-for-4 with a double, an RBI and a run scored in Sunday's 7-4 loss to the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was back in the starting lineup after being held out for two games with an undisclosed injury, although he did pinch hit Saturday. The Reds had called up catcher Austin Wynns on Friday, but Stephenson's injury was not serious, and Wynns was sent back to Triple-A Louisville on Sunday.
Jun 23 2024Stephenson (undisclosed) is starting at catcher and batting fifth Sunday against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson missed two consecutive starts due to an undisclosed injury, though he was able to appear as a pinch hitter during Saturday's loss. He'll now return to his usual place behind the dish and look to turn things around after recording just two hits in his last 10 games.
Jun 22 2024Stephenson fouled out in his only plate appearance during Saturday's 4-3 loss to the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has been dealing with an undisclosed injury, but managed to pinch hit in the ninth inning for Luke Maile. While Stephenson wasn't well enough to start Saturday's contest, it's certainly encouraging that he was able to take an at-bat.
Jun 21 2024Reds manager David Bell said Friday that Stephenson is day-to-day with an undisclosed injury, Chris Renkel of Local 12 in Cincinnati reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson caught on Monday and served as the team's designated hitter Tuesday but has now missed two straight starts sandwiched around Thursday's team off day. It's not clear exactly what Stephenson is dealing with, but the Reds brought up Austin Wynns as protection at catcher.
Jun 19 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll take a seat for the afternoon game after making starts at catcher and designated hitter in the first two contests of the series in Pittsburgh. Luke Maile will check in for Stephenson behind the plate Wednesday.
Jun 16 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll get a breather for the series finale after he had started at catcher in each of the Reds' previous four games. Luke Maile will spell Stephenson behind the plate.
Jun 9 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's a well-deserved day off for Stephenson, who started the previous nine games and posted a .905 OPS during that stretch. Luke Maile will take over behind the plate Sunday and bat eighth.
Jun 8 2024Stephenson started at catcher, batted fifth and went 1-for-3 with a double and two RBI in Friday's 3-2 win over the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson, who had his hand checked out after getting hit by a pitch Thursday, was back in the starting lineup Friday at his usual catching position. He delivered a two-out, two-run double in the fourth inning to give the Reds a 2-0 lead. The double extended Stephenson's hit streak to eight games, during which he's 12-for-31 (.387) with five RBI and eight runs.
Jun 6 2024X-rays on Stephenson's right hand came back clean Thursday, C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was hit by a pitch in the sixth inning and remained in the game. He apparently had some lingering effects, however, as he got X-rays after the contest. The team may give him an extra day of rest during its weekend series against the Cubs, but Stephenson appears to have avoided serious injury.
Jun 4 2024Stephenson went 2-for-5 with a home run, two RBI and an additional run scored in Monday's 13-3 win over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Reds busted out in a big way in Colorado, setting new season highs in hits and runs. Stephenson's teammates did most of the damage before the catcher finished the rout with a two-run homer in the ninth inning. It was his sixth home run of the season and first in 13 games.
May 29 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will take a seat for the day game after he went 0-for-4 with a strikeout while catching all nine innings of Tuesday's 7-1 loss to St. Louis. Luke Maile gets the starting nod behind the dish in the series finale.
May 26 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against Los Angeles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get a break after catching in Cincinnati's first two games of its series against the Dodgers. Luke Maile will fill in at catcher and will bat eighth as the Reds go for the series sweep.
May 23 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After catching in both of the past two days, Stephenson will get a breather Thursday as the Reds and Padres wrap up their series with an afternoon game. Luke Maile will replace Stephenson as the Reds' starting catcher.
May 19 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson went 5-for-11 with a homer and three RBI in the first three games of the series but will receive a breather in the finale. Luke Maile will take over behind the plate for Cincinnati.
May 17 2024Stephenson went 2-for-4 with a solo home run in Friday's 7-3 loss to the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has four multi-hit efforts over his last five games, and each of those two-hit games has included one knock for extra bases. His homer Friday was his second of the month and fifth of the season. The catcher is up to a .264/.342/.472 slash line with 14 RBI, 18 runs scored, one stolen base and seven doubles through 120 plate appearances on the year.
May 15 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll get a breather for Wednesday's afternoon game after starting behind the plate both of the past two days while going 4-for-9 with two doubles and three runs. Luke Maile will get the starting nod behind the plate in the series finale.
May 12 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's series finale against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson started behind the plate in each of the first two games of the series, going 1-for-7 with one walk and three strikeouts. Luke Maile will start at catcher for the series finale Sunday, while Mike Ford serves as the designated hitter.
May 9 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was behind the plate for both of the past two days and the Reds are closing out their series in Arizona with an afternoon game, so he'll receive a breather Thursday. Luke Maile will serve as the Reds' starting catcher in his place.
May 8 2024Stephenson went 1-for-4 with a solo home run in Tuesday's 6-2 loss to the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson's ninth-inning home run was way too late for the Reds, who logged just three hits and lost their sixth consecutive contest. Cincinnati's middle-of-the-order bats have not produced of late, which has prompted manager David Bell to move Stephenson to cleanup in the three starts since he returned from a hand injury last week.
May 5 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson started the first two games of the series but will sit for the finale after going 0-for-6 with a walk. Luke Maile is catching for Nick Lodolo and batting ninth.
May 4 2024Stephenson went 0-for-3 in Friday's 3-0 loss to the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson missed the last four games while dealing with a hand injury resulting from a hit-by-pitch last Saturday. He had been available off the bench if needed.
May 3 2024Stephenson (hand) will start at catcher and bat cleanup in Friday's contest versus the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has been held out all week as a precaution with soreness in his right hand as a result of a hit-by-pitch. He's ready to roll now, following the Reds' off day Thursday.
May 2 2024The Reds expect Stephenson (hand) to return Friday against the Orioles, Gordon Wittenmyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is hitting .231/.338/.415 with three homers and 10 RBI, but his Statcast metrics (20.4% barrel rate, 93.4 mph average exit velocity) suggest better results could be forthcoming. Moreover, Stephenson has been considerably better than his backup Luke Maile, who is hitting just .163/.250/.256 so far on the season.
May 1 2024Stephenson (hand) remains out of the lineup for Wednesday's game in San Diego. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He hasn't played since exiting Saturday's game versus the Rangers following a hit-by-pitch on the right hand. The Reds have an off day Thursday, so they could be aiming for Stephenson to return to action Friday against the Orioles. Luke Maile will catch again Wednesday in Stephenson's place.
Apr 30 2024Stephenson (hand) isn't in the Reds' lineup for Tuesday's game against the Padres, Jeff Sanders of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson hasn't started a game since being hit in the hand by a pitch during Saturday's game against the Rangers, though he was available off the bench for Monday's contest and presumably is also available if needed Tuesday. In the meantime, Luke Maile will pick up another start behind the plate and bat eighth.
Apr 29 2024Stephenson (hand) didn't play in Monday's 5-2 victory over the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has now missed two consecutive matchups after being struck on the right hand by a pitch Saturday against the Rangers. Luke Maile drew the start behind the dish Monday and could continue to see playing time until Stephenson is cleared to return.
Apr 28 2024Stephenson (hand) is out of the lineup for Sunday's game at Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager David Bell said Stephenson's removal from Saturday's contest after being hit by a pitch on the hand was precautionary, but the backstop will still take at least one day to recover. Luke Maile is working behind the plate in the series finale versus the Rangers.
Apr 27 2024Reds manager David Bell said the removal of Stephenson from Saturday's game versus the Rangers following a hit-by-pitch on the right hand was precautionary, Gordon Wittenmyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It doesn't sound like Stephenson even needed to undergo any testing. It's possible the Reds will choose to hold him out Sunday, particularly because it's an afternoon game, but Stephenson is expected to be fine.
Apr 25 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get a well-deserved breather for Thursday's day game after he started in each of Cincinnati's last seven games, with six of those starts coming behind the plate. Luke Maile will get the nod at catcher Thursday and form a battery with starting pitcher Nick Martinez.
Apr 20 2024Stephenson went 1-for-4 with a grand slam in Saturday's 7-5 win over the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Patrick Sandoval loaded the bases in the first inning and Stephenson cashed in with his first career grand slam. As Mark Sheldon of MLB.com notes, Stephenson has been one of the best hitters in baseball at making hard contact so far this year, ranking at the very top of the league in barrel percentage entering play Saturday. The results weren't there early on this season, but Stephenson now has three home runs in his last seven games.
Apr 13 2024Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup for Saturday's game against the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get a day off Saturday after going 1-for-4 with a home run and two runs scored during Friday's blowout victory. Luke Maile will start behind the dish instead while batting eighth.
Apr 10 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will give way to Luke Maile behind the plate after catching in both of the first two games of the series with Milwaukee. Through 10 games this season, Stephenson is hitting a respectable .259 but has yet to provide a home run and has been limited to three RBI and three runs.
Apr 7 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is on the bench for the series finale after he caught all nine innings of Saturday's 9-6 win while going 1-for-3 with a walk. Luke Maile will catch for starting pitcher Andrew Abbott on Sunday.
Apr 5 2024Stephenson is absent from the lineup for Friday's game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It looks to be a routine day off for the Reds' starting catcher. Luke Maile will be behind the plate Friday while Stephenson gets some rest.
Apr 1 2024Stephenson is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson and Luke Maile have now made two starts apiece at catcher through the Reds' first two games, but the former still appears to be viewed as the team's No. 1 option behind the dish.
Mar 30 2024Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Saturday against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson went 1-for-4 with an RBI to begin the season Thursday, and he'll take a seat Saturday to give Luke Maile his first start of the year. The 27-year-old Stephenson still projects to start behind the dish most days for the Reds in 2024.
Feb 17 2024Stephenson is preparing to be the Reds' primary catcher in 2024, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That's essentially what Stephenson was in 2023, but a series of injuries in 2022 limited him to 50 games that season and had a cascading effect the following year. The most serious injury was to his collarbone, which may have contributed to Stephenson losing 150 points of OPS. The injuries also caused lost time behind the plate that he could have used to gain game-calling experience. That lost experience led to more starts during the Reds' postseason push for Luke Maile in 2023. The plan for 2024 is different than last spring, when manager David Bell tried creating a rotation of three catchers that had Stephenson working as a designated hitter -- he started 42 games at DH. The trick for the 27-year-old Stephenson is to maintain a middle-of-the-order bat while improving behind the plate and working with pitchers.
Jan 11 2024Stephenson agreed to a one-year, $2.525 million deal with the Reds on Thursday, avoiding arbitration, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson avoided concussions in 2023 en route to a career-high 517 plate appearances -- the first time he's topped 402 plate appearances in a season. He slashed .243/.317/.378 with 13 home runs in 142 games, but given the Reds' improved depth, he will likely see significantly fewer starts at designated hitter (43 games in 2023) in 2024.
Sep 30 2023Stephenson went 1-for-5 with a two-run home run and an additional run in Friday's 19-2 win over St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson's 13th home run of the season was the Reds' third of the fourth inning and sixth and final long ball of the night, leaving the team one shy of matching a single-game franchise record. Though the Reds are one of the few teams in baseball still competing for a playoff spot in the final series of the regular season, Stephenson isn't necessarily a lock to start behind the dish Saturday and Sunday. He and Luke Maile have been splitting work at catcher of late, with the latter starting four games to Stephenson's three over the past seven contests.
Sep 26 2023Stephenson is out of the lineup Tuesday at Cleveland. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Luke Maile will start at catcher and bat ninth for the Reds as they take on the Guardians and right-hander Lucas Giolito. Stephenson went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in Sunday's series finale versus the Pirates and carries a disappointing .698 OPS through 504 plate appearances this season.
Sep 24 2023Stephenson went 2-for-4 with a home run, a double, a walk and three total RBI in Saturday's loss to the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was part of an early offensive outburst by the Reds, hitting a solo homer in the first inning and adding a two-run double in the second. He had been struggling coming into the contest, going 4-for-34 over his previous 10 contests. Despite the recent struggles, Stephenson has recorded career-best marks with 12 homers and 53 RBI over 137 games this season.
Sep 22 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Friday against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is just 2-for-22 across his last six games, and his offensive woes will now cause him to miss his second start in a row. Luke Maile will start behind the plate Friday and bat ninth.
Sep 20 2023Stephenson is not in Wednesday's lineup against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After starting six straight games, Stephenson will head to the bench for this day game after Tuesday's night game. Luke Maile, who is recovered from a bruised hand, is starting behind the dish and hitting ninth.
Sep 13 2023Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Luke Maile will do the catching for Connor Phillips. Stephenson and Maile have alternated starts behind the plate for the last eight contests.
Sep 10 2023Stephenson is not in the lineup for Sunday's game versus the Cardinals, Gordon Wittenmyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson and Luke Maile have alternated starts behind the ploate over the past five games, and that trend will continue Sunday after Stephenson went 1-for-4 with a double, an RBI and a run in Saturday's contest.
Sep 8 2023Stephenson is out of the lineup Friday against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Luke Maile will catch and bat ninth versus the Cardinals and lefty Drew Rom. This appears to be a routine day of rest for Stephenson, who has gone 7-for-12 with a homer, two doubles and four RBI over his last four games.
Sep 5 2023Stephenson is not in the lineup Tuesday versus Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson went 5-for-7 with a homer, two doubles and four RBI between Sunday's series finale against the Cubs and Monday's series opener against the Mariners, but he'll grab some rest Tuesday as Luke Maile takes a turn behind the plate for Cincinnati.
Sep 3 2023Stephenson went 3-for-3 with a two-run homer and an additional RBI in Sunday's loss against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson put the Reds ahead 4-3 in the second inning with a two-run blast off Jameson Taillon. It was Stephenson's 11th homer of the year, setting a new career high, and his third in his last 13 games. Overall, the 27-year-old catcher is slashing .252/.333/.382 with 51 runs scored and 47 RBI this season.
Sep 2 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Saturday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson went 1-for-3 with a walk in Game 1 of Friday's doubleheader before sitting out the nightcap, and he'll get a breather Saturday as well. Luke Maile will fill in behind the dish and bat ninth.
Sep 1 2023Stephenson is not in the starting lineup for Game 2 of Friday's doubleheader with the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will head to the bench after he went 1-for-3 with a walk and a strikeout in the team's 6-2 loss to Chicago in Friday's matinee. Luke Maile will start behind the plate and bat ninth in the nightcap.
Aug 30 2023Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will take a seat for the day game after he went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts while catching all eight innings of Tuesday's 6-1 loss. Luke Maile will handle the catching duties for the Reds in the series finale.
Aug 28 2023Stephenson is not in the lineup for Monday's game against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson posted a .988 OPS over his last 10 games, but he has not started three days in a row behind the plate all season, so it comes as no surprise that he is getting a breather after opening behind the plate the past two days.
Aug 26 2023Stephenson went 3-for-4 with a triple, a double and one RBI in Saturday's 8-7 extra-innings win over the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was a home run shy of the cycle in his first multi-hit effort since Aug. 1. He's hit a paltry .231 (12-for-52) across 18 games this month, slightly worse than his .247 average for the season. The catcher remains the Reds' top option behind the plate with a .700 OPS, 10 home runs, 44 RBI, 50 runs scored, 15 doubles and two triples through 116 contests. He's also been caught on his only attempt to steal a base this season.
Aug 25 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Friday against Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get a breather Friday after picking up a hit in six of his last seven games. Luke Maile will fill in behind the dish and bat ninth in Stephenson's place.
Aug 23 2023Stephenson went 1-for-5 with a two-run home run in a 7-3 win over the Angels in the second game of Wednesday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson went deep in the fourth inning to put the Reds ahead 3-1. The catcher has homered twice over his last three games to get to 10 long balls on the year. He's slashing .241/.324/.362 with 42 RBI, 50 runs scored, 13 doubles, one triple and no stolen bases over 113 contests as the Reds' primary backstop.
Aug 21 2023Stephenson entered as a pinch hitter and went 1-for-2 with a solo home run in Sunday's 10-3 loss to Toronto. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson homered as a pinch hitter for Luke Maile in the seventh inning and finished out the game behind the plate. The blast was Stephenson's ninth and first in 12 games. The Reds primary catcher has hits in four straight games but has struggled overall since the All-Star break, recording a .203/.276/.304 line over 25 contests.
Aug 20 2023Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Blue Jays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll take a seat for the series finale after starting behind the plate Friday and Saturday while going 2-for-6 with a walk between the contests. Luke Maile will start at catcher and form a battery with starting pitcher Hunter Greene.
Aug 16 2023Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is slashing a woeful .180/.254/.246 since the All-Star break, and his ongoing struggles at the dish appear to have resulted in him moving into more of a timeshare at catcher with Luke Maile. The two backstops have now alternated starts behind the plate over the past eight games.
Aug 13 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup for Game 2 of Sunday's doubleheader against Pittsburgh. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts during the Reds' Game 1 loss, and he'll catch a breather to end the day. Luke Maile will take over behind the dish and bat ninth.
Aug 11 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Friday agaisnt the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is just 1-for-16 with six strikeouts across his last five games, so he'll take a day off Friday to regroup. Luke Maile will fill in behind the plate and bat ninth.
Aug 8 2023Stephenson is not in the lineup Tuesday against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Luke Maile will start at catcher and bat ninth versus the Marlins and left-hander Braxton Garrett. Stephenson has slashed just .192/.263/.269 in 57 plate appearances since the All-Star break and carries a disappointing .687 OPS on the year.
Aug 5 2023Stephenson is not in the lineup for Saturday's game versus the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has a .528 OPS in 15 games since the All-Star break and will hit the bench Saturday for the second time in the past three games. Luke Maile will receive another start behind the plate for Cincinnati.
Aug 3 2023Stephenson is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has a .547 OPS in 14 games since the All-Star break and will head to the bench Thursday after starting the previous two contests. Luke Maile will work behind the plate and bat ninth in the series finale at Chicago.
Aug 2 2023Stephenson went 2-for-5 with a home run, two RBI and an additional run scored in Tuesday's 20-9 loss to the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson belted his eighth home run of the season in the sixth inning. The homer was his first in 20 games, while the RBI was his first in 16 games. Stephenson is slashing .251/.332/.368, well off his pace from last season when he had an unsustainable .409 BABIP.
Jul 31 2023Stephenson is not in Monday's lineup against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson hit .211 with one home run, 10 runs and four RBI in 57 July at-bats. Luke Maile will start behind the dish and hit ninth.
Jul 29 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Saturday against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will catch a breather after going 1-for-6 across his last two games. Luke Maile will start behind the dish in Stephenson's place and bat ninth.
Jul 25 2023Stephenson is not in the lineup Tuesday versus the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Luke Maile will catch Andrew Abbott in what has become a regular tandem. Stephenson carries a relatively unremarkable .252/.334/.365 batting line through 94 games (368 plate appearances) this season with Cincinnati.
Jul 23 2023Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get a breather for the matinee game after he started behind the dish both of the past two days. Luke Maile will catch for starting pitcher Luke Weaver in the series finale.
Jul 20 2023Stephenson is not in the lineup for Thursday's game against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's a day game after a night game, offering the prime opportunity to give Stephenson some rest. Luke Maile will be catching Andrew Abbott.
Jul 18 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Tuesday versus the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is 0-for-21 across his last seven games, so he'll receive a day off Tuesday to regroup. Curt Casali will fill in behind the plate and bat ninth.
Jul 15 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Saturday against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After going 0-for-3 with a pair of strikeouts during Friday's contest, Stephenson will get a breather Saturday. Luke Maile will take Stephenson's place behind the dish and bat ninth.
Jul 7 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Friday against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is 5-for-16 with a homer, four RBI and six runs scored since the beginning of July. He'll catch a breather Friday while Luke Maile starts behind the dish while batting ninth, and Will Benson will serve as Cincinnati's designated hitter.
Jul 2 2023Stephenson went 1-for-1 with a two-run homer in Sunday's 4-3 victory over the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After initially getting the day off, Stephenson was called upon in crunch time, entering the game as a pinch hitter with two outs in the ninth inning. He delivered his seventh home run of the season -- surpassing his 2022 total -- and drove in Stuart Fairchild to give Cincinnati a 4-2 lead and the eventual victory. Through 79 games, Stephenson boasts the third most runs scored and the sixth most RBI amongst catchers while slashing .258/.334/.382.
Jun 27 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Tuesday against Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After going 5-for-15 with two runs scored across his last four games, Stephenson will get a breather Tuesday. Luke Maile will start behind the plate and bat ninth.
Jun 24 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Saturday against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is 5-for-19 with an RBI and a run scored across his last five games. He'll get a breather Saturday as Curt Casali takes over behind the plate and bats ninth.
Jun 20 2023Stephenson is not in the lineup Tuesday against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Curt Casali is starting at catcher and batting ninth versus the visiting Rockies and right-hander Noah Davis. Joey Votto will serve as the Reds' designated hitter and bat sixth. Stephenson has gone 0-for-8 with three strikeouts over his last two games and holds a disappointing .681 OPS on the year.
Jun 7 2023Stephenson went 3-for-5 with two RBI in Tuesday's 9-8 win over the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson recorded base knocks in the first, seventh and ninth innings, while his two RBI came from his hit in the opening frame. Tuesday marked hist first multi-hit game since May 27 and his second three-hit effort this year. The 26-year-old has just 15 extra-base hits in 238 plate appearances this year, leading to a .105 ISO, which is currently in the bottom 20 of the league among all qualified hitters. He now owns a slash line of .246/.332/.351 with three homers, 24 RBI, 26 runs and a 24:66 BB:K.
Jun 5 2023Stephenson went 1-for-3 with a solo home run in Monday's 2-0 win over Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Offense was scarce in the contest, and Stephenson accounted for one of two total runs with his fourth-inning solo blast. The long ball was his first since May 13, a span of 19 games. Stephenson has struggled since that previous homer, batting .189 with 24 strikeouts and just 14 hits over 74 at-bats.
Jun 3 2023Stephenson isn't in the Reds' lineup Saturday against Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is just 2-for-19 at the plate across his last five games, so he'll get a day off Saturday to regroup. Curt Casali will take over behind the dish and bat ninth.
May 21 2023Stephenson is not in the starting lineup Sunday versus the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will take a seat after he went 0-for-7 with three punchouts over the first two games of the series. Luke Maile will take over behind the plate and bat ninth in the series finale with New York.
May 17 2023Stephenson is out of the starting lineup against the Rockies on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will take a seat for Wednesday's battle against the Rockies after going 1-for-8 with two runs scored over the first two games of the series. Luke Maile will get the start behind the plate and bat ninth.
May 2 2023Stephenson is out of the lineup Tuesday against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson seems certain to get it going at some point, but he went 0-for-4 in Monday's series opener at San Diego and is batting just .265/.348/.324 with zero home runs through 29 games this season. Curt Casali is catching for the Reds on Tuesday and Henry Ramos is taking a turn in the designated hitter role.
Apr 27 2023Stephenson went 2-for-3 with a double and a run scored in Wednesday's win over the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson scored the first run in Wednesday's contest, doubling to lead off the second inning before coming around on a Henry Ramos triple. Stephenson, who served as Cincinnati's DH in the win, has gone 9-for-26 with three doubles in his last eight contests. The 26-year-old catcher has yet to homer this year, though he's still slashing .286/.381/.345 with 10 runs and 10 RBI through 97 plate appearances. While Stephenson is the Reds' primary catcher, he should continue to see a fair amount of time at DH and first base in an attempt to ensure he stays healthy following an injury-hampered 2022 campaign.
Apr 1 2023Stephenson went 2-for-4 with a double and two runs scored in Saturday's win over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a 1-for-4 showing in the opener, Stephenson followed up with two more hits Saturday, including his first extra-base knock of the season. He was in the cleanup spot against lefty Rich Hill just as he was Thursday against right-hander Mitch Keller. However, this time he was at first base, and he will continue to get starts at first occasionally even when Joey Votto (shoulder) returns. The Reds need Stephenson's bat in the lineup.
Feb 16 2023Stephenson is expected to catch about 65 games for the Reds this season, manager David Bell told Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The plan is for Stephenson to catch four out of every 10 games and also make three starts at designated hitter and two at first base during that span. Bell said that the team already has every game planned out, although circumstances can obviously change. Just 65 games seems like an awfully low number for your starting catcher, but it should certainly give Stephenson a better shot to stay healthy after he was limited to just 50 contests in 2022. It's welcomed news for his fantasy outlook. The Reds also have Curt Casali, Luke Maile and Austin Romine, so they have other options at catcher. Stephenson's season ended last year with a fractured clavicle, but he enters camp without restrictions.
Jan 27 2023Reds manager David Bell said Friday that he wants Stephenson (collarbone) in the lineup for 140-150 games this season, Bobby Nightengale of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: That helps to explain why the Reds have stacked up an experienced cast of veteran backup catchers -- Curt Casali, Luke Maile, and Austin Romine -- over the course of the winter. Stephenson is expected to see a lot of time at DH and first base to aid in ensuring that he can handle a larger overall workload. The 26-year-old was limited to 50 games in 2022 due to a range of different ailments, but it was a broken collarbone that officially ended his season in August. He's averaged an .823 OPS with 15 home runs and 73 RBI for every 162 games played when healthy.
Nov 16 2022Stephenson (collarbone) announced Wednesday via his personal Twitter account that he's resumed taking batting practice. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson's 2022 campaign came to an end in late July, when he suffered a broken right collarbone that later required surgery. The fact that he's swinging a bat again suggests he's nearing the finish line in his recovery from surgery, but he'll still need to complete a throwing program before he's fully cleared for catching duties in spring training. When healthy last season, Stephenson displayed the upside of a top-tier fantasy catcher, as he hit .319 with six home runs, 35 RBI and 24 runs in just 183 plate appearances.
Aug 6 2022Stephenson isn't expected to return this season after undergoing surgery to stabilize his fractured right collarbone Thursday, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will be eligible to return from the 60-day injured list for the final two weeks of the season, but that was reportedly a long shot even before his surgery. The Reds haven't officially ruled him out for the remainder of the year, but the team has little incentive to rush him in a lost season and seems content to let him rest and heal. With Aramis Garcia (finger) also out, the Reds are going with Michael Papierski and Austin Romine behind the plate.
Aug 5 2022Stephenson underwent surgery Thursday to stabilize the fracture in his right clavicle,C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to Rosecrans, the procedure is designed to alleviate some of the pain and discomfort in Stephenson's right shoulder, but his timeline for a return shouldn't be affected. The Reds placed Stephenson on the 60-day injured list earlier this week, making him ineligible to return until at least the final two weeks of the season.
Aug 1 2022Stephenson will undergo surgery on his broken collarbone, C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was announced earlier in the day that Stephenson was transferred to the 60-day injured list, and that was simply a precursor to the latest update on his status. It's unclear exactly how long Stephenson will need to recover from the procedure, but he will not be eligible to be activated from the injured list until Sept. 21.
Jul 23 2022Stephenson (shoulder) was placed on the 10-day injured list Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson sustained a broken right clavicle Friday against the Cardinals when he was hit in the shoulder by a foul ball and doesn't have a timetable for his return. He'll be forced to spend more than the minimum of 10 days on the IL, and a better recovery timetable will likely come into focus once he resumes baseball activities. Aramis Garcia (elbow/illness) will likely serve as the primary catcher once he's healthy, but Michael Papierski and Mark Kolozsvary will serve as the top two options behind the dish while Stephenson and Garcia are sidelined.
Jul 22 2022Stephenson suffered a broken right clavicle Friday against St, Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was hit in the shoulder by a foul ball and he was unable to complete a throw to first base a few pitches later. No timetable has been announced for his return, though he'll likely miss a large portion of the rest of the campaign.
Jul 15 2022Stephenson isn't in the lineup Friday against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson started in the last five games and hit .450 with a homer, a double, four RBI and three runs. Michael Papierski will take over behind the dish and bat ninth.
Jul 10 2022Stephenson went 3-for-5 with a two-run homer in Sunday's 10-5 win over the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson took Shane Baz deep as part of the Reds' seven-run third frame. He's gone 5-for-9 in two games since returning from a month-long stint on the injured list. The 25-year-old improved his season slash line to .320/.372/.493 with six home runs and 33 RBI through 164 plate appearances. Since the start of June, Stephenson is 14-for-35 (.400) with four extra-base hits in nine games.
Jul 9 2022Stephenson (thumb) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson sustained a fractured thumb June 9 but will rejoin the Reds exactly a month after the injury occurred. The 25-year-old went 4-for-15 with a double, a run, an RBI and eight strikeouts over four rehab games at Triple-A Louisville and should reclaim an everyday role now that he's back to full health. Mark Kolozsvary was sent down to make room for Stephenson on the active roster.
Jul 7 2022Reds manager David Bell said Stephenson (thumb) will play two more games during his rehab assignment with Triple-A Louisville before returning from the 10-day injured list, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is expected to start at catcher in one of the games and designated hitter in the other, though it's unclear if the Reds plan on having him play both of the next two days or if he'll get a day off in between. Regardless, Stephenson look like he could be back in action for the Reds no later than Sunday, assuming he experiences no setbacks with his fractured right thumb. Once reinstated from the IL, Stephenson will take over as the Reds' No. 1 catcher, pushing Aramis Garcia back into a reserve role.
Jul 4 2022Stephenson (thumb) could return during the Reds' current homestand, according to Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is set to begin a rehab assignment Monday night, and if all goes as planned in the days ahead, he could be back with the big club by the end of next weekend.
Jul 1 2022Stephenson (thumb) is expected to start his rehab assignment with Triple-A Louisville on Monday, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is nearing a return from the broken thumb he suffered June 9, but he'll likely have to make several rehab starts before rejoining the big league club. He's currently tracking to return just ahead of the All-Star break.
Jun 30 2022Stephenson (thumb) is expected to begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A Louisville in the coming days, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson took part in batting practice Wednesday and is close to returning to game action with the minor-league club. The 25-year-old has been on the injured list since June 9 due to a fractured right thumb and will likely require several rehab games before rejoining the Reds, but he seems to be trending toward a return sometime in early July.
Jun 29 2022Stephenson (thumb) participated in batting practice on the field at Great American Ball Park on Wednesday, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager David Bell recently said he hopes Stephenson will begin a rehab assignment within the next week, and the catcher's participating at batting practice Wednesday is an encouraging sign for his outlook. The 25-year-old will likely need to advance to facing live pitching before being cleared for game action in the minors.
Jun 25 2022Manager David Bell said Saturday that he hopes Stephenson (thumb) could begin a rehab assignment in the next week to 10 days, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson sustained a fractured right thumb June 9 and initially carried a return timetable of 4-to-6 weeks, but he appears to be slightly ahead of schedule in his recovery. He shed his cast this week and will likely resume baseball activities in the coming days as he prepares for a minor-league rehab assignment.
Jun 22 2022Reds manager David Bell said Wednesday that Stephenson no longer needs a cast to protect his fractured right thumb, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though the skipper noted Stephenson is "healing properly," the backstop remains without a clear timeline to resume baseball activities. When he first sustained the thumb injury June 9, Stephenson was projected to miss 4-to-6 weeks, so fantasy managers shouldn't count on him returning from the 10-day injured list until shortly before the All-Star break in a best-case scenario.
Jun 21 2022Stephenson (thumb) is expected to have his cast removed within the next few days, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Depending on the feedback he receives from his surgeon once the cast is removed, Stephenson could be able to resume light baseball activities by next week. The 25-year-old was projected to miss around 4-to-6 weeks when he first fractured his thumb June 9, and that timeline is still believed to be in place.
Jun 10 2022Stephenson (thumb) was placed on the 10-day injured list Friday, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was hit in the right hand by a foul ball Thursday, ultimately fracturing his thumb. He is expected to miss 4-to-6 weeks while recovering and Chris Okey was called up to replace him on the big-league roster.
Jun 9 2022Stephenson sustained a fractured right thumb during Thursday's loss to the Diamondbacks and is expected to miss 4-to-6 weeks, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson had a strong start to the 2022 season, slashing .305/.361/.468 with five home runs, 31 RBI, 21 runs and a stolen base over 42 games. He missed a week and a half earlier in the year due to a concussion but is now facing an absence of at least a month due to the thumb injury. Aramis Garcia should serve as the Reds' primary catcher in Stephenson's absence, while the team will also presumably call up another backstop from the minors.
Jun 8 2022Stephenson is out of the lineup Wednesday against Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has logged four consecutive multi-hit performances, and he went 9-for-16 with a home run, two doubles, seven RBI and four runs during that time. However, he'll get a breather while Aramis Garcia starts behind the plate and bats ninth.
Jun 7 2022Stephenson went 2-for-5 with a two-run home run and an additional RBI during Tuesday's 14-8 win versus Arizona. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson contributed an RBI single during the second inning and provided some key insurances runs in the eighth with a two-run homer. The 25-year-old continues to produce as one of the top catchers in baseball this season with a .309/.366/.475 slash line, five home runs and 31 RBI in 41 games.
Jun 2 2022Stephenson is not in the starting lineup for Thursday's contest with the Nationals, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will take a seat Thursday after starting six straight games, going 6-for-24 with three RBI and four runs over that span. Aramis Garcia will start at catcher and bat eighth in the series opener.
May 25 2022Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson started in each of the Reds' last seven games and was behind the plate for six of those contests, so he'll get a well-earned breather Wednesday. Aramis Garcia will catch for starting pitcher Luis Castillo.
May 17 2022Stephenson (head) will catch and bat fifth Tuesday against the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson left Saturday's game against the Pirates after taking a foul ball off his mask, but he passed concussion tests. He sat out Sunday but is ready to reclaim his regular role following Monday's scheduled off day.
May 15 2022Stephenson (head) cleared concussion testing and is available off the bench Sunday against the Pirates, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has already suffered one concussion this season and three for his career, so it's good news he's cleared the testing protocols after taking a foul ball off his mask Saturday. He's out of the lineup Sunday and will also have the Reds' scheduled day off Monday to rest up for the upcoming three-game set with the Guardians, which begins Tuesday. Aramis Garcia is starting behind the plate Sunday and batting seventh.
May 14 2022Stephenson left Saturday's game against the Pirates after taking a foul ball off his facemask, but manager David Bell said afterward that Stephenson passed initial concussion tests, Charlie Goldsmith of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports. "The report (Saturday night) is no concussion," Bell said. "[Stephenson] was examined by the doctors here. We'll have him re-evaluated just to be sure, but that's a real relief in a big way. That's very scary. We caught a break there." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: As Goldsmith notes, Stephenson has suffered three concussions in his playing career, including one earlier this season in a collision at home plate with the Padres' Luke Voit. Another one in such a short span could be devastating, so even if Stephenson's follow-up tests are clear as well, the Reds may look to ease his workload behind the plate for a stretch. In light of his concussion history, it's reasonable to think Stephenson could end up replacing Joey Votto as the team's primary first baseman in time.
May 13 2022Stephenson went 3-for-4 with a solo home run, an additional RBI and an additional run scored during Thursday's 4-0 win over the Pirates. He also struck out once. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson opened the scoring with an RBI single in the second and extended the Reds' lead to 2-0 with a solo shot in the fourth. Over his last three games, Stephenson has eight hits, seven RBI and four runs scored.
May 11 2022Stephenson went 3-for-5 with two doubles, four RBI and two runs during Wednesday's 14-11 win over Milwaukee. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson started the scoring with an RBI double during the the opening frame, and he with another double in the second to put the Reds up 7-0. It's his seventh multi-hit game and second three-hit effort of the campaign. The 25-year-old has a .322/.397/.559 slash line with three home runs, five doubles, 17 RBI and 11 runs through 20 games.
May 7 2022Stephenson isn't starting the second game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get a breather after he went 3-for-4 with two doubles, four RBI, a run and a strikeout in Saturday's matinee. It's worth noting that he took a foul ball off the helmet, but he was able to remain in the game, and the Reds haven't indicated that his absence from the nightcap is due to an injury. Aramis Garcia will start behind the plate and bat ninth.
May 5 2022Stephenson went 2-for-4 with a solo home run, an additional RBI and an additional run scored during Thursday's 10-5 loss to the Brewers. He struck out once. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson opened the scoring with an RBI single in the first inning and eventually came around to score on a Colin Moran single. The slugger also rocked a solo shot off Brewers starter Adrian Houser in the fourth inning, but he was one of the few bright spots for the Reds during another brutal loss. It was Stephenson's fourth multi-hit game of the season and brings his season slash line to .263/.356/.500.
May 4 2022Stephenson isn't starting Wednesday against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson returned from a concussion in Tuesday's series opener against Milwaukee and went 0-for-4 with four strikeouts. Aramis Garcia will start behind the dish and bat ninth.
May 3 2022Stephenson (concussion) was activated off the injured list Tuesday and will bat fifth and start behind the plate against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson wound up missing two weeks after colliding with Luke Voit at home plate. He's ready to go without having played in any rehab games and will look to get back to the form he showed prior to his injury, when he hit .267/.378/.467 in 11 games. Mark Kolozsvary was optioned to clear a roster spot.
Apr 24 2022Manager David Bell said Sunday that he's unsure if Stephenson (concussion) will be ready to return from the 7-day injured list in time for the Reds' series in Colorado that begins Friday, C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since he was placed on the 7-day injured list retroactive to April 20, Stephenson is technically eligible to return for the final two game of the Reds' home series with the Padres on Wednesday and Thursday, but Bell's comments imply that the backstop won't clear the concussion protocol by then. Stephenson doesn't sound like he's a lock to make it back for the weekend either, potentially making Aramis Garcia an attractive short-term pickup both in leagues that start one or two catchers. Though he's out of the lineup Sunday against the Cardinals, Garcia started each of the Reds' last four games and went 4-for-11 with two runs.
Apr 19 2022Stephenson was diagnosed with a concussion and will be placed on the 7-day injured list Wednesday, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson suffered the injury while tagging out Luke Voit in a collision at home plate during the opening frame of Tuesday's loss to the Padres, and he'll be out for at least a week while going through the concussion protocol. Aramis Garcia should step in as Cincinnati's primary backstop in the meantime, and the team will need to promote another catcher to serve as the backup.
Apr 15 2022Stephenson will be on the bench for Friday's game against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has handled a heavy workload behind the plate thus far this season, starting six of the first seven games prior to his day off Friday. He's gotten off to a good start offensively, homering twice and posting a .910 OPS in 25 plate appearances. Aramis Garcia will take over Friday, catching Vladimir Gutierrez.
Apr 13 2022Stephenson went 2-for-3 with a two-run home run in Wednesday's loss to the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The catcher launched his second homer of the season in the eighth inning by connecting on a Nick Sandlin fastball, driving in Tyler Naquin. With former teammate Tucker Barnhart now with the Tigers, Stephenson has stepped in the everyday role at backstop. Now as the primary starter, Stephenson will look to build off of a strong 2021 campaign where he went yard 10 times, drove in 45 runs and produced a .286 batting average over 132 games.
Apr 10 2022Stephenson went 1-for-3 with a walk and a solo home run in Sunday's win in Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson got himself on the board with a fifth-inning long ball off Sean Newcomb. The backstop is looking to build on his strong 2021 campaign, and he's off to a nice start -- he's batting .300 in the early going. Stephenson has hit fifth in the order in all three games he's started so far.
Apr 9 2022Stephenson will hit the bench Saturday against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson has a clear role as the Reds' primary catcher this season with Tucker Barnhart now a Tiger, but, like any catcher, he'll get a fair amount of days off. He'll hit the bench after going 2-for-6 with three RBI in the first two games of the year, with Aramis Garcia taking over behind the plate.
Apr 5 2022Stephenson has batted fifth in the last three spring training games that he's played in, all games with what appears to be the Reds' most likely Opening Day starters. He's hitting .393/.514/.500 in 35 spring training plate appearances. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: In all three instances, Stephenson was hitting against right-handed starters, reinforcing the notion that he's more than a platoon starter, but the Reds' primary catching option, locked in behind Joey Votto.
Nov 3 2021Stephenson currently resides atop the Reds' depth chart at catcher after Cincinnati dealt Tucker Barnhart to the Tigers on Wednesday, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though he lacks the defensive polish of Barnhart, a two-time Gold Glove winner, Stephenson should represent a significant upgrade offensively from the Reds' long-standing No. 1 backstop. Even while slotting second on the depth chart for most of last season, Stephenson still earned himself regular starts at Barnhart's expense against left-handed pitching, typically slotting into the heart of the lineup on those occasions. Overall, Stephenson slashed .286/.366/.431 with 10 home runs, 56 runs and 45 RBI, with his 111 wRC+ ranking fourth among the 15 catcher-eligible players that accrued at least 400 plate appearances. The Reds will presumably add another defensive-minded veteran catcher to the roster this offseason, but in the likely event he faces lesser competition than Barnhart and receives an uptick in playing time in 2022, the 25-year-old Stephenson could have a legitimate case for being viewed as a top-five fantasy option at the position.
Sep 26 2021Stephenson went 3-for-5 with a home run, a double, two runs scored and three RBI in Sunday's 9-2 win over Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson put the Reds on the board with his two-run shot in the fifth inning and later brought home another run with a sacrifice fly. He's up to 10 homers and 44 RBI alongside a .798 OPS this season. Stephenson entered Sunday's game in a 29-game drought without a home run, going 16-for-69 (.232) during that span.
Sep 22 2021Stephenson (undisclosed) was reinstated from the COVID-19 injured list Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson landed on the COVID-19 IL on Monday, but his brief absence suggests that he didn't test positive for the virus. The 25-year-old is in the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Pirates, C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports.
Sep 20 2021The Reds placed Stephenson on the injured list without a designation Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Stephenson typically starts against left-handed pitchers, he wasn't included in the lineup for Cincinnati's series opener Monday with the Pirates, who are starting southpaw Dillon Peters. Stephenson's move to the IL explains why he was absent from the lineup, and the lack of a designation attached to his name implies that he's been ruled out for a reason related to COVID-19. Cincinnati called up Mark Kolozsvary from Triple-A Louisville to serve as the No. 2 catcher behind Tucker Barnhart while Stephenson is on the shelf.
Sep 8 2021Stephenson is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With four starts in the Reds' previous six games, Stephenson has seen an uptick in playing time lately, but that's mostly been a byproduct of Cincinnati facing a lefty-heavy slate. Stephenson will be on the bench for the second game in a row with the Reds matching up another righty (Alec Mills) in the series finale, affording No. 1 backstop Tucker Barnhart a turn behind the plate.
Aug 15 2021Stephenson went 1-for-1 with a two-run homer in Sunday's 7-4 win over the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was out of the lineup for the second time in the last three games, but he entered the contest in the eighth inning and blasted his ninth home run of the season. The 24-year-old is in the midst of a power surge across his last three appearances, and he's gone 5-for-9 with three home runs, four RBI and four runs during that time.
Aug 14 2021Stephenson went 1-for-3 with a solo home run in Saturday's 6-1 loss to the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He spoiled a bid for a combined no-hitter, much less a combined shutout, by taking Archie Bradley deep to lead off the eighth inning. Stephenson has homered in consecutive starts, giving him eight long balls on the season, and he's batting an impressive .323 (10-for-31) through 11 games in August.
Aug 12 2021Stephenson went 3-for-5 with a solo home run in Thursday's win over Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson took Edgar Santana deep in the ninth inning for his seventh homer of the year. He also picked up a double and a single en route to a season-best six total bases. It's been perhaps overshadowed by the breakouts of teammates Jesse Winker and Jonathan India, and the second-half resurgence of veteran Joey Votto, but the 24-year-old Stephenson has emerged as an important bat in the Reds lineup, slashing .287/.373/.429 with 35 RBI in 295 plate appearances.
Aug 8 2021Stephenson (hamstring) went 1-for-4 with a double, an RBI and a run scored in Sunday's 3-2 win over Pittsburgh. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The catcher's scoring contributions came in the fourth inning when he drove in a run on a fielder's choice and scored on a Kyle Farmer double. Stephenson missed two games with the hamstring injury, but he should go back to splitting time with Tucker Barnhart behind the plate. Through 281 plate appearances, Stephenson has a .282/.370/.419 slash line, six home runs, 34 RBI, 44 runs scored and 15 doubles.
Aug 6 2021Manager David Bell announced Friday that Stephenson (hamstring) won't need to go on the injured list, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson left Thursday's game with what was initially described as a hamstring cramp, and further evaluation confirmed that he didn't suffer any sort of more serious injury. Given Bell's update, Stephenson could have a chance of being available off the bench Friday, and the backstop should be ready to start behind the plate when next called upon.
Aug 5 2021Stephenson left Thursday's game in the sixth inning with a hamstring cramp, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The exit was termed precautionary, which makes sense given the label as a cramp. Assuming Stephenson isn't dealing with anything more serious, he should be back in action soon. Tucker Barnhart replaced Stephenson behind the plate.
Aug 4 2021Stephenson went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBI in Wednesday's 6-5 win over the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He hit an RBI single in the third inning, then crushed an 86 MPH changeup to center field for a seventh-inning home run. Stephenson has provided some solid production as Cincinnati's backup catcher, as he's hitting .313 with 12 RBI in 67 at-bats since the beginning of July. On the season, the 24-year-old is slashing .282/.372/.419.
Jul 25 2021Stephenson went 3-for-3 with a pair of walks, an RBI and a run scored in Sunday's 10-6 loss to St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The catcher has recorded multiple hits in four of his last six starts, although the other two games in that sample were 0-fers. All three of Stephenson's hits Sunday were singles. The 24-year-old is slashing .288/.378/.419 with five home runs, 27 RBI and 39 runs scored across 251 plate appearances. He remains the favorite for playing time behind the dish versus left-handed pitching, but he has drawn starts four times versus right-handers in the last eight games.
Jul 6 2021Stephenson went 3-for-5 with a run scored in Tuesday's 7-6 loss to Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All three of the catcher's hits were singles, and he scored on a Joey Votto triple in the third inning. Stephenson continues to show well when he's in the lineup, as he's posted a .281/.381/.432 slash line with five home runs, 22 RBI and 34 runs scored through 215 plate appearances. With Jesse Winker out of the lineup Tuesday, Stephenson hit second, but he'll likely bat farther down the order in most circumstances.
Jun 28 2021Stephenson is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Reds included Stephenson in the lineup in four of the past six games, but all but one of those starts came when the opposition brought lefty pitchers to the hill. Stephenson looks like he'll be stuck in a short-side platoon role while both Tucker Barnhart and Joey Votto are healthy.
Jun 11 2021Stephenson went 1-for-3 with a solo home run, a pair of walks and two runs scored in Friday's 11-5 win over Colorado. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson got the start behind the dish Friday, and he supplied a solo shot in the fifth inning. The catcher is slashing a solid .267/.368/.420 with four homers, 17 RBI and 21 runs scored across 152 plate appearances. Tucker Barnhart has posted similar numbers this year, which will likely leave Stephenson in a backup role.
Jun 10 2021Stephenson is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson had started 17 of the Reds' previous 19 games, with most of those opportunities coming at first base. However, with Joey Votto returning from the injured list Tuesday, Stephenson's time as an everyday player for the Reds could be over. Stephenson should still get a handful of starts per week when Votto and top catcher Tucker Barnhart require rest, but the 24-year-old's expected downturn in playing time could make it difficult to justify holding him in most leagues. Compared to most catcher-eligible players, Stephenson has been quite productive this season with a .268 average, three home runs, 19 runs and 16 RBI across 146 plate appearances.
Jun 9 2021Stephenson went 2-for-4 with two doubles and three RBI on Wednesday against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson began the productive effort with an RBI double in the first inning. He followed that up three frames later by driving in two runners with another extra-base knock. Though it's come in bunches, Stephenson now has seven RBI in his last 10 games. In that same span, he's collected nine hits across 31 at-bats. For the season, Stephenson is hitting .268/.363/.402 with three home runs, 19 runs scored and 16 RBI across 146 plate appearances.
Jun 5 2021Stephenson isn't starting Saturday against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson will get a breather after he went 2-for-4 with a home run, two RBI and a walk Friday. Mike Freeman will start at first base and bat eighth.
May 29 2021Stephenson went 1-for-4 with a double and two RBI in Saturday's loss against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson provided all the offense the Reds were able to muster with a two-run double in the top of the sixth inning, scoring Eugenio Suarez and Jesse Winker. The backstop is hitting a decent .260 with a .713 OPS on the season.
May 23 2021Stephenson will start at first base and bat cleanup Sunday against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 24-year-old is in the lineup for the fifth straight game, with two of his starts coming at catcher and three coming at first base. With all of Joey Votto (thumb), Mike Moustakas (heel) and Nick Senzel (knee) on the shelf, Stephenson looks like he'll have a fairly clear path to regular playing time in the short term until the Reds claim some health. Given that he's eligible at catcher and owns an .826 OPS over 109 career MLB plate appearances, Stephenson looks worthy of rostering in most formats while he's getting steady work.
May 19 2021Stephenson is starting at first base and batting cleanup in Wednesday's game against the Giants. He doesn't have a first-base mitt of his own and has to borrow one from teammate Mike Moustakas, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Joey Votto out and Moustakas available for pinch-hit duty only, the Reds have had to get creative with their lineups. Most of the time Kyle Farmer has been starting at first. Stephenson gives them an opportunity to perhaps find a little extra power.
May 13 2021Stephenson went 1-for-2 with a two-run home run during Thursday's loss to the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson finally got the Reds on the board with an eighth-inning long ball while pinch hitting against Lucas Gilbreath. Unfortunately, the deficit was still too much for Cincinnati to overcome. Stephenson now has two homers this season while batting .305/.349/.441.
May 2 2021Stephenson is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson had caught two of the Reds' previous three games, going 3-for-8 between those contests. Though he boasts the more potent bat among the Reds' two catchers, Tucker Barnhart's superior defense should continue to earn him the overwhelming share of starts behind the dish.
Apr 10 2021Stephenson is playing roughly one-third of the time at catcher behind Tucker Barnhart, though manager David Bell suggested that ratio could change later, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson is off to a great start with the bat (5-for-12 with a homer), but so is Barnhart, and Barnhart is the better defensive catcher. As the season progresses, and the Reds face more left-handed starters, Stephenson could work himself into more playing time.
Apr 5 2021Stephenson will return to a bench role for Monday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Tucker Barnhart is back behind the plate for the series opener with Pittsburgh, Stephenson may have earned himself a larger share of playing time following a huge game Sunday. Stephenson posted a team-high three hits in the Reds' 12-1 win over the Cardinals, coming around to score three times while also driving in a run. Barnhart's defensive prowess is probably enough to keep him locked in atop the depth chart, but Stephenson's combination of power and on-base skills would likely make him one of the more intriguing fantasy catchers if he can capture a regular role at any point in 2021.
Mar 16 2021Stephenson looked good blocking balls in the dirt in Tuesday's spring training loss to the Rockies, Bobby Nightengale of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Reds were hesitant to play Stephenson behind the plate last season because of his defense, especially in comparison to the defensive skills of starter Tucker Barnhart. At the plate Stephenson went 0-for-2 with a walk Tuesday and is only 4-for-19 this spring, albeit with three walks. With Curt Casali gone, Stephenson is the clear backup to Barnhart right now.
Sep 14 2020Stephenson hit a two-run home run in a pinch-hit at-bat in Game 1 of Monday's doubleheader against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson was called on with a runner on and two outs, and he delivered his second long ball of the 2020 season. Since being called up Sept. 8, he's 3-for-9 with four RBI and a walk.
Sep 8 2020Stephenson was recalled by the Reds on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The talented young backstop made his MLB debut back in late july, going 2-for-2 with a homer in his lone game. He doesn't have a clear path to playing time behind the plate down the stretch, with Tucker Barnhart and Curt Casali both healthy, but the Reds likely didn't call him up just to have him stuck on the bench, so he's likely to find his way into the lineup occasionally over the final three weeks.
Jul 29 2020Stephenson was optioned to Cincinnati's alternate camp site Wednesday, Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson made one appearance during his time with the big club and went 2-for-2 with a walk, a home run, two RBI and two runs scored. Mike Moustakas was reinstated from the injured list in a corresponding move.
Jul 27 2020Stephenson went 2-for-2 with a walk, a home run, two runs scored and two RBI in Monday's 8-7 loss to the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Curt Casali got the start but came out of the game in the seventh inning with the Reds down 7-1, allowing Stephenson to make his major-league debut in a seemingly low-pressure spot. Instead, the 23-year-old keyed a Cincy comeback that fell just short as he launched a solo homer on the second pitch he saw in the bottom of the frame. He then singled in the eighth to kick off a two-out rally and drew a bases-loaded walk off Craig Kimbrel in the ninth to bring the Reds within one run. Casali has started every game to begin the season, but Stephenson's impressive performance should put him in the mix for more work behind the plate.
Jul 26 2020Stephenson was added to the 30-man roster Sunday, C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 23-year-old will take the roster spot of Mike Moustakas (illness), who was placed on the injured list Sunday. Tucker Barnhart (paternity) is away from the team, but Stephenson is still unlikely to see significant opportunities with Curt Casali and Kyle Farmer still on the roster.
Mar 15 2020The Reds optioned Stephenson to Triple-A Louisville on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cincinnati's top catching prospect wasn't a serious threat to crack the Opening Day roster with all of Tucker Barnhart, Curt Casali and Kyle Farmer ahead of him in the organizational pecking order. The 2015 first-round pick will likely spend the majority of the season at Louisville honing his receiving skills, but Stephenson could get a look in the majors at some point if the Reds are eager to phase out Barnhart in favor of a higher-upside offensive option behind the dish.
Feb 28 2020Stephenson went 2-for-2 with a homer, double, walk and four RBI in Thursday's spring training win over the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Stephenson finally put together a healthy minor league season in 2019 and followed that up with a nice campaign in the Arizona Fall League. He's expected to begin the year in Triple-A Louisville, but if Tucker Barnhart continues to falter at the plate, there's a window for Stephenson to get a chance to take over the job by the summer.
Jul 20 2018Stephenson went 4-for-5 with a pair of home runs and five RBI for High-A Daytona in its 9-6 win over Bradenton on Thursday.The hit and RBI totals matched career highs for the 21-year-old backstop, who is now slashing .282/.361/.451 across 391 plate appearances on the season. At 6-foot-4 and 225 pounds, Stephenson is quite large for a catcher, but his big frame hasn't hindered him too much defensively thus far in his development. The Reds will continue to bring the 2015 first-round pick through the system slowly and likely won't prepare him for a role with the big club until 2020.