CINCINNATI – The Reds could soon welcome back catcher Tyler Stephenson as they prepare for a pivotal three-game series against the Mets this weekend. Stephenson, recovering from a fractured left thumb, began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Louisville on Wednesday. He went 1-for-3, hitting a two-run home run, and caught seven innings before being lifted from the game.
“There’s a chance he comes back Friday,” manager Terry Francona said. “Because he really hasn’t been gone that long. We’ll see.” Stephenson is set to serve as designated hitter for Louisville on Thursday.
Stephenson has been sidelined since August 20 (retroactive to the 17th). While he didn’t feel discomfort while batting, catching remained an issue. A custom protective sleeve in his glove has since eased that problem. In 72 games this season, he is batting .226 with nine home runs and 36 RBIs. In his absence, Jose Trevino has handled most of the catching duties, with rookie Will Banfield backing him up.
On Tuesday, Stephenson successfully caught rookie pitcher Chase Burns during a simulated game. Burns, out since August 8 with a Grade 1 right flexor strain, has also been making progress. The 22-year-old threw a bullpen session on Saturday before facing hitters on Tuesday, and he’s scheduled to do so again this weekend.
Burns, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 Draft, has shown flashes of promise despite an 0-3 record and 5.24 ERA in eight starts. He has struck out 57 batters in 34 1/3 innings, recording double-digit strikeouts in four of his last five outings before the injury.
Although his role could shift once the rotation is healthy, Burns emphasized his focus on returning to help Cincinnati’s playoff push. “I feel like I’ve been learning a lot,” he said. “I want to get back in there and help the team win. Try to make this playoff push.”
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