Austin Wynns' hot streak should force Reds to re-think failed Tyler Stephenson idea

Tyler Stephenson may need to start taking some ground balls at first base while he's on his rehab assignment with the Louisville Bats. Reds catcher Austin Wynns' hot-streak continued with a solo shot against the Miami Marlins on Wednesday afternoon. Wynns has earned more playing time behind the plate, and it has caused a ripple effect that might push Stephenson back to first base.

Wynns took Marlins' starter, and former Cy Young Award-winner, Sandy Alcantara deep during the second inning of Wednesday's series finale against the Marlins. He's now hitting a ridiculous .500 on the season with an absurd 1.413 OPS, three home runs, and 10 RBI.

Wynns is out of minor league options, and there's no way the Reds will be able to pass a hot-hitting catcher—who's better known for his defensive acumen—through waivers. Cincinnati cannot afford to designate Wynns for assignment, meaning the Reds will have to carry three catchers.

Austin Wynns' hot streak should force Reds to re-think the idea of Tyler Stephenson at first base

The Reds could also pivot, however, in a different direction and give Stephenson some reps at first base. Cincinnati tried this to no avail back in 2023 when Joey Votto opened the season on the IL. Stephenson played just eight games at first before the Reds moved him back behind the plate. He also logged a number of starts as the team's designated hitter that year.

Offensively, the Reds can't get much worse at first base. Heading into play on Wednesday, Cincinnati's first basemen were hitting a collective .138/.186/.277 with 24 strikeouts. That group of hitters includes the scuffling bats of Spencer Steer, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and Jeimer Candelario.

As Steer continues to progress in his throwing program after being sidelined due to a shoulder injury, he's expected to make some starts in the outfield. Encarnacion-Strand is currently on the IL and his timeline to return is foggy at best. Candelario can play third base, though most of Reds Country would just prefer he rides the bench.

In short, there is an avenue for Stephenson to log playing time at first base, catcher, and DH. If that's not in the cards, then Reds fans will likely see Terry Francona drop the notion of moving Stephenson to first base and split his time behind the plate and at DH.

This wasn't supposed to happen, but baseball has a way of creating chaos amid unexpected circumstances. One thing is clear, however, whether or not Stephenson sees time at first base, Wynns isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

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