Reds shouldn’t let their new philosophy cost them Tyler Stephenson

Writer Brandon Glick argues that the Cincinnati Reds should retain impending free-agent catcher Tyler Stephenson, despite the club's offseason shift toward a "hit over power" philosophy. General manager Nick Krall plans to revamp the offense after Cincinnati ranked last in batting average, on-base percentage, and wRC+. While Stephenson has struggled with strikeouts, Glick contends his defensive continuity remains crucial for the team.

According to the column, Stephenson offers vital familiarity for young rotation pitchers like Chase Burns and Andrew Abbott. With top prospect Alfredo Duno not yet major-league ready and alternative free agents either costly or limited offensively, Glick believes re-signing Stephenson on a short-term deal provides the ideal bridge behind the plate.