This short-form article has been updated at 12:50 pm 5/2/25.
Commonly referred to as “QB1” among the Reds faithful, Catcher Tyler Stephenson is eligible to come back to the Cincinnati Reds after a rehab stint with the AAA Louisville Bats. Tyler was diagnosed with a pretty serious oblique injury, and the Reds, large in part to their immense production they’ve got from their catching duo, have taken their sa-wee-eee-t time with Stephenson. Be sure to subscribe to our Newsletter!
The Louisville Struggle.
Even though he’s eligible, he may not feel ready. His brief stats from his rehab stint would suggest he’s still way off on timing. In 28 ABs, he’s slashing .107/.265/.515. We all know that’s not Tyler Stephenson, so much could suggest his timing is still way off from the months he sat idle. He has 1 HR, which adds to his 3 total hits. He’s walked 6 times, and also struck out 9 in those 28 ABs as well.
Much could say he’s not ready yet, and I think he would even agree. Tyler is a perfectionist and knows it’s a performance based game. He does not want to hurt the team by not being ready. The Reds’ catching situation is arguably the best it’s been in a decade, Tyler Stephenson is a must on this team, but it’s not right now.
We believe he will opt to take some more ABs in Louisville, and that’s what the team is thinking too. All that matters is that he’s healthy. Nati Sports’ brass is putting their money on Tyler rejoining the Reds for their Atlanta series starting on Monday; Georgia is Tyler’s home state and one of his favorite stops. Expect to see Tyler back with the Reds on Monday.
Well, we were wrong, kinda! The Reds had to put Austin Hays on the IL again, and thus they are bringing Tyler Stephenson back. Tyler has been activated for Friday’s game against the Washington Nationals.
