Reds may have a clear path to keep Tyler Stephenson after all, but the price just went up

Drew Koch of Blog Red Machine reports that while Cincinnati Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson is scheduled to become a free agent, an offseason return has not been entirely ruled out according to MLB insider Robert Murray. Both the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees reportedly engaged in trade talks for Stephenson ahead of the trade deadline, but Cincinnati's asking price was deemed unrealistic.

Koch argues that a potential free agency bidding war will likely push Stephenson out of Cincinnati, with estimates projecting a two- or three-year deal worth $10 million annually. Given the presence of top prospect Alfredo Duno and alternative roster needs across pitching and outfield depth, Koch believes the Reds will refrain from making an aggressive play to re-sign him.