Reds may have a clear path to keep Tyler Stephenson after all, but the price just went up

Tyler Stephenson's contract situation with the Cincinnati Reds has been well documented over the years. For whatever reason, the Reds and Stephenson were never able to find common ground on an extension, and Cincinnati's so-called QB1 is scheduled to become a free agent in a matter of weeks.

According to FanSided's MLB insider Robert Murray, Stephenson is expected to draw a lot of interest on the free agent market this offseason. Furthermore, both the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees had conversations with the Reds about trading for Stephenson at the August 3 deadline, but Cincinnati's asking price was said to be "unrealistic."

Nevertheless, Murray didn't rule out a return to the Reds this offseason, citing Stephenson's ties to the organization — the only one he's ever played for during his professional career. Still, if a bidding war for his services is set to unfold this winter, Cincinnati seems likely to look elsewhere.

Reds won't get into a bidding war for Tyler Stephenson

There've been times in the past when the Reds have allowed fan-favorites and clubhouse leaders to linger on the active roster longer than they probably should. Recent examples include TJ Friedl, Will Benson, and even Jonathan India.

Stephenson certainly fits the mold of a fan-favorite and clubhouse leader, though his production cannot be discounted (.241/.323/.404 with 15 home runs, 54 RBI, and a 101 OPS+). In fact, it's why he's likely to be a hot commodity in free agency this offseason.

But Stephenson's price tag (and the presence of top prospect Alfredo Duno) will likely keep the Reds from making an aggressive play for him in free agency. It's anyone's guess what the veteran backstop will command on the open market, but a two or three-deal worth $10 million AAV isn't an outrageous estimate. For the Reds, however, that money can be better spent addressing more pressing needs.

Cincinnati has several holes up and down the roster, not the least of which includes two or three starting pitchers, multiple bullpen arms, a pair of platoon outfielders, and a third baseman. Add all that up, and it's difficult to see the Reds handing over an eight-figure salary to a catcher with Jose Trevino under contract and Duno quickly ascending through the farm system.

So while Murray's reporting may not have closed the door to a Stephenson reunion, it certainly seems as though the market will push him to a new destination in 2027.

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