Reds' Stephenson to start season on IL due to oblique strain

The Cincinnati Reds will begin the 2025 campaign without their starting catcher after Tyler Stephenson was diagnosed with a low-grade oblique strain on Friday, according to Gordon Wittenmyer of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Stephenson experienced back soreness Wednesday, which forced the Reds to scratch him from their spring training contest against the Texas Rangers. An MRI revealed the oblique injury.

The 28-year-old backstop was set to earn most of the reps behind the plate for the Reds, who are attempting to win their first division crown since 2012.

Stephenson had a solid year for Cincinnati in 2024, posting a .782 OPS (112 OPS+) with 19 home runs, 26 doubles, and 66 RBIs. His 3.0 fWAR ranked fifth in the majors among qualified catchers.

Offseason acquisition Jose Trevino should shift to a starting role with Stephenson sidelined.