Don't expect the Reds catching situation to resolve itself anytime soon

The Cincinnati Reds have made adding a veteran catcher to the roster a priority this offseason. After seeing Tyler Stephenson go down with injuries multiple times in 2022, the front office has put an emphasis on finding a competent backup.

The Reds reportedly have interest in a reunion with Tucker Barnhart. Cincinnati dealt their longtime backstop to the Detroit Tigers last fall, but Barnhart is a free agent and is looking for a new home.

However, while the Reds are interested in adding a catcher this winter, don't expect a resolution to the problem anytime soon. Some other things will have to work themselves out before Cincinnati dives into he free agent market.

Don't expect the Reds catching situation to resolve itself anytime soon.

The most recent report involving the Cincinnati Reds' pursuit of Tucker Barnhart comes with the caveat that the two-time Gold Glove Award-winner would like to find a starting job before settling as a backup.

With that in mind, Barnhart may be waiting for the market to setle before making a decision on his future. Catchers like Willson Contreras and Christian Vasquez are likely to land starting jobs through free agency. Omar Narvaez is another name to watch, as is Austin Hedges.

There's also the trade market. The Toronto Blue Jays have three capable catchers and only enough room for two. Alejandro Kirk, Danny Jensen, or Gabriel Moreno may be dealt this offseason. The rebuilding Oakland A's may also be looking to deal Gold Glove catcher Sean Murphy.

So, with those aforementioned backstops all looking for starting jobs of their own, it may be a little while before Tucker Barnhart makes the decision to enter a spring training battle to be a team's starting catcher or settle on being a backup.

There are other catchers the Cincinnati Reds could pursue this offseason that could be considered a serviceable backup to starter Tyler Stephenson. Former Reds Curt Casali and Austin Romine come to mind. Gary Sanchez is also available.