The Cincinnati Reds made several roster changes today ahead of their critical three-game series against the New York Mets. Catcher Tyler Stephenson has been activated from the injured list and will rejoin the 28-man roster, replacing struggling catcher, who has been optioned back to Triple-A Louisville. Meanwhile, right-handed pitcher Joe La Sorsa, who was designated for assignment earlier this week, has cleared waivers and has been outrighted to Louisville.
Stephenson is returning to the Reds after being sidelined since August 15th due to a fractured left thumb. After a three-week recovery period, he began a rehab stint with Louisville on Wednesday, appearing in two games. In his first game, he caught seven innings and went 1-for-3, launching a 428-foot home run in his first at-bat. In his second appearance as the designated hitter, he went 1-for-2 but was hit in the ribs by a cutter during his final plate appearance.
Will Banfield, who had been called up to fill in for Stephenson, is heading back to the minors. During his stint with the Reds, he started just two games and appeared off the bench in five others. He recorded his first MLB hit—a single against the Cardinals on August 29th at Great American Ball Park. In total, he went 1-for-10 at the plate, with six strikeouts and no walks.
As for La Sorsa, now that he’s been outrighted, he has the option to either accept the assignment to Louisville or elect free agency. His decision hasn’t been announced yet, but considering the timing and his recent waiver status, staying in Triple-A and continuing to earn a paycheck through the end of the season may be the more practical choice.
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