CINCINNATI -- If Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson needed any further assurance about the condition of his fractured left thumb, there was no better indication than catching hard-throwing right-hander Chase Burns in a two-inning simulated game on Tuesday.
“I caught Burns’ live and he was throwing 101, so that was kind of a big test,” Stephenson said. “So yeah, the thumb’s good. It feels good to be back. Ready to go out there and compete.”
Stephenson was activated from the 10-day IL on Friday and catcher Will Banfield was optioned to Triple-A Louisville. In a corresponding move, right-hander Joe La Sorsa was outrighted to Louisville.
The timing of Stephenson’s return couldn't be any better for the Reds who begin a crucial three-game series with the Mets on Friday.
“He feels good,” Reds manager Terry Francona said. “He’s not going to catch seven days in a row, but he’s good.”
Stephenson began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Louisville on Wednesday and went 1-for-3 with a two-run home run to center field during a 6-5 win over St. Paul in 10 innings. He also caught for seven innings before exiting the game. Stephenson DH’d on Thursday and went 1-for-2.
Stephenson's thumb was fitted with a custom-made protective sleeve that fits in his glove to reduce discomfort while catching. He plans to continue to wear the sleeve.
“At least for the near future, for sure,” Stephenson said. “Haven’t had any issues with hitting. It’s more of a pain tolerance thing. As of now, I haven’t felt anything. The biggest thing with injuries is getting over the mental hurdles.”
Stephenson did reveal a souvenir from his time in Louisville: A bruise on his left side after being hit by a pitch on Thursday. But he’s no worse for wear.
The Reds have been without Stephenson since Aug. 20. In 72 games for the club this season, Stephenson is batting .226 with a .706 OPS, nine homers and 36 RBIs. In his absence, Jose Trevino has taken most of the starts behind the plate with Banfield backing up.
Stephenson’s return affords Trevino a much-needed rest and gives the Reds a veteran bat and backstop against the Mets, the team they’re chasing for the final NL Wild Card spot.
“Big opportunity,” Stephenson said, of this weekend’s series. “It’s what we play for, to be in meaningful games this time of year. Play well and we kind of control our own destiny. We’ve been through a lot this year. There’s no [better] group of guys, really, to go out there and do this thing. We’re excited.”