Reds have catcher of the future, but what about the present?

The Cincinnati Reds face a vacancy at primary catcher this winter with longtime backstop Tyler Stephenson entering free agency. While top prospect Alfredo Duno represents the franchise's long-term future at the position, president of baseball operations Nick Krall emphasized that the 20-year-old still requires minor league development and will not be rushed to the majors for Opening Day 2027.

Cincinnati's current internal options on the 40-man roster include Jose Trevino and Will Banfield. To bridge the gap until Duno is ready, the Reds could target short-term deals via free agency or trades, with external options such as Carson Kelly and Austin Hedges, while a reunion with Stephenson also remains possible.