Once promising Reds fan favorite takes uncertain step after years of painful setbacks

Among their cast of major league free agents, the Cincinnati Reds are set to lose key contributors this offseason like Nick Martinez, Zack Littell, Miguel Andujar, and others.

However, big league players aren't the only ones who reach the open market once their contracts or service-time related control expire; minor-league free agency receives far less buzz than its major league counterpart, but franchises have to replenish the organizational depth they lose every year somehow.

The Reds have 20 minor-league free agents this year, including a few notable players who received time in Cincinnati at one point or another in recent seasons. Relievers Alex Young and Buck Farmer are among the group, as is first baseman Edwin Rios, who led the farm system in home runs in 2025 with 26.

However, arguably the most notable player among that crop is reliever Tejay Antone, who has been trying to return to the big leagues following his third Tommy John surgery, a feat that only Jonny Venters and Jason Isringhausen have accomplished in the past. Now, it appears that Antone will continue that journey elsewhere.

Tejay Antone reaches free agency, unceremoniously ending tenure with Reds

Antone, who underwent three distinct elbow surgeries in 2017, 2021, and 2024, was once one of the most promising arms in the organization. In 36 games (69.0 innings) between 2020-21, the right-hander logged a 2.48 ERA and 3.0 WAR while striking out 32.3% of opposing hitters.

He rocked an impressive four-pitch mix highlighted by a fastball that could brush the upper-90s back then, though his velocity had fallen following his second TJ surgery. At his best, Antone was a fireballing reliever who could generate swings and misses with the best of them, but the human body can only take so much.

Antone actually began his comeback attempt this year, logging 15 innings between Dayton, Chattanooga, and Louisville. As expected, he struggled, surrendering a 10.20 ERA and nine walks in his limited duty, though he did rack up 15 strikeouts while flashing some of the old stuff that once made him so promising.

As the Reds battled for a playoff spot down the stretch, there was never room on the roster to give him a chance to return to Cincinnati, though Antone deserves all the credit in the world for pursuing yet another comeback attempt at 31 years old.

Of course, free agency, even of the minor league variety, doesn't guarantee that Antone has thrown his last pitch in the Reds' organization. He could always re-sign with the only franchise he's ever known, even if that feels unlikely at this stage.

Regardless of where he goes next, all Reds fan should be cheering for "Captain Hook" to get another chance in the majors.