Reds sure sound ready to move on from Tyler Stephenson

The Cincinnati Reds appear unlikely to re-sign catcher Tyler Stephenson as he enters free agency, according to Blog Red Machine's Abigail Miskowiec. Writer Abigail Miskowiec reports that Reds president Nick Krall is shifting offensive strategy away from power hitting toward on-base and small-ball skills, making a reunion with Stephenson improbable.

Miskowiec highlights Stephenson's 27.4% strikeout rate in 2026 and suggests the Reds pursue free agents Ryan Jeffers or Carson Kelly to bridge the gap until prospect Alfredo Duno is ready.