Home » Sports » MLB » Chicago Cubs

MLB exec sees Tyler Stephenson as potential Cubs replacement for Carson Kelly

Jim Bowden sees longtime Cincinnati Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson as a potential Chicago Cubs replacement for Carson Kelly should he leave via free agency.

By Jake Misener · Cubbies Crib

Published: Saturday, 31 October 2026 at 8:00 PM

Key Things to Know

Jim Bowden identifies free-agent catcher Tyler Stephenson as a potential replacement for Carson Kelly with the Chicago Cubs.
Jake Misener reports the Cubs' preferred free agency choice remains re-signing Carson Kelly.
Bowden projects Stephenson could sign a two-year, $16 million free-agent contract.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Athletic's Jim Bowden views free agent catcher Tyler Stephenson as an ideal replacement for the Chicago Cubs if Carson Kelly signs elsewhere. Jake Misener of Cubbies Crib writes that while re-signing Kelly is likely the Cubs' primary preference, Stephenson represents a viable alternative in a weak free-agent catching class.

Stephenson caught 116 games for the Cincinnati Reds in 2026, posting a .727 OPS and a career-high 2.5 bWAR while also offering utility at first base. Bowden projects Stephenson could secure a two-year, $16 million contract in free agency.

Read the full article on Cubbies Crib

MLB exec sees Tyler Stephenson as potential Cubs replacement for Carson Kelly

More Chicago Cubs News

Never Miss a Sports Update