Earlier this week, the Reds promoted Randy Wynnes to make a spotstart for Nick Lodolo after the birth of his child (paternity leave) – yesterday he was Designated For Assignment, eventually cleared waivers, and now has been outrighted to Louisville where he’s expected to remain. So…this is where it gets interesting. The Reds are now at 39 players on the roster. You should sign up for our email list using the popup or the form below! Stay up to date on everything Reds!
Who Are The Reds’ Options?
The Reds, since they’re subtracting from their pitching, can go several different ways. They could either end up reinstating a position player, or they could go the other route and add a pitcher. There’s prominent every day Reds players currently on rehab assignments, and one that is simply on the IL. None of these guys are on the 60 day IL, so that leaves room to add a player to the roster.
Christian Encarnacion-Strand went on the IL late last week with back spasms. He’s known to of got an epidural to help with his pains, but his status is still unknown as of now. It’s unclear if he’s been swinging the bat or not.
Tyler Stephenson started a rehab stint this week in Louisville, and has been both hitting and catching, labeling himself as “healthy” – could it be him that is recalled from AAA and slotted into the lineup? We were told he’d be ‘babied’ and that they’d take their time with him, the right thing to do, especially as Austin Wynns & Jose Trevino have been balling out.
Sam Moll also started a rehab assignment on 4/22 with Tyler Stephenson and pitched last night with increased velocity and more strikes being thrown. I’d think that he is the most likely candidate to be recalled and reinstated sooner rather than later, Stephenson will probably be getting his feet under him further. All of these guys, but none needing to be added to the 40…so that brings us to what really matters here…
The Next 40 Man Move?
The Reds have a spot open, and there’s a guy in AAA that has been absolutely shredding the competition and has been HOT that plays the outfield. His name is Ivan Johnson. There’s a possibility the Reds will use their open 40 man spot on him, and give him a chance, should somebody get hurt. The Reds do not need to add anyone else to their 40 man roster as of now, and no one on the 60 day IL is set to be reactivated, so this is a good chance for Ivan to be added.
As of now, Ivan Johnson, in 18 games so far in 2025 and 62 ABs, is slashing .323/.425/.532 with a .957 OPS. Ivan is a switch hitting OFer, primarily playing LF, who can definitely bank on the Reds calling his number soon if he continues this trend. Right alongside him is Tyler Callihan who also seems to be knocking on the door, but Tyler is already on the 40. As always, Nati Sports will let you know who gets added as soon as it comes out!
