The Cincinnati Reds have finalized a one-year contract with catcher Tyler Stephenson valued at $4.925 million to avert arbitration. This agreement comes amidst speculation regarding a potential long-term deal, but resolving the contract before arbitration is seen as a positive outcome for all parties involved.

In the previous MLB season, Stephenson made a notable impact, achieving a .258 batting average, .338 on-base percentage, and a .444 slugging percentage, along with 19 home runs and 66 runs batted in. As the team navigates through managerial changes and offseason strategies, securing Stephenson's services is a key step in keeping their roster competitive.

FanGraphs has unveiled its projections for the Cincinnati Reds in 2025, suggesting the team is likely to hover around a .500 win-loss record. Elly De La Cruz is expected to be the standout performer, projected to achieve an fWAR of 5.0 with a batting line of .263/.335/.472, including 25 home runs and 54 stolen bases. Matt McLain, returning from shoulder surgery, is anticipated to be the second-best player with an fWAR of 4.0 and a batting average of .254.

While the catching duo of Tyler Stephenson and Jose Trevino is projected to contribute significantly with a combined fWAR of 3.6, the overall lineup is seen as underwhelming. The third base position, manned by Noelvi Marte, Santiago Espinal, and Jeimer Candelario, is forecasted to have the lowest fWAR on the team at just 0.7. On the pitching front, Hunter Greene is projected to maintain a solid performance, with a record of 8-7 and a 3.62 ERA.

However, the Reds' bullpen is viewed negatively, with a combined fWAR of -0.3, highlighting a need for improvement. The projections echo fan sentiments, indicating the necessity for the Reds to bolster their roster if they aim to contend effectively in 2025.

The New York Yankees have traded catcher Jose Trevino to the Cincinnati Reds, acquiring right-handed reliever Fernando Cruz and catcher Alex Jackson in return. Trevino, who has been a solid defensive player and won a Gold Glove in 2022, struggled offensively last season but will serve as a backup to Tyler Stephenson in Cincinnati.

On the Yankees' side, Cruz brings a promising strikeout rate and a strong splitter, aiming to enhance the team's bullpen. Jackson, with a low OPS+, adds depth to the catching position.

The Cincinnati Reds have bolstered their roster by acquiring veteran catcher Jose Trevino from the New York Yankees. Trevino, known primarily for his defensive skills, had a challenging season, posting a .215 batting average with eight home runs and 28 RBIs in 74 games.

In the trade, the Reds sent reliever Fernando Cruz and catcher Alex Jackson to New York. Cruz struggled this season with a 4.86 ERA, while Jackson had limited success at the plate. The Reds also feature Tyler Stephenson, who had a breakout year, further enhancing their catching depth.

The New York Yankees have strengthened their bullpen by trading catcher Jose Trevino to the Cincinnati Reds for reliever Fernando Cruz. Cruz, who recorded 109 strikeouts in 66 2/3 innings last season, brings significant strikeout potential to the Yankees' relief corps.

In addition to Cruz, the Yankees recently acquired Devin Williams, enhancing their pitching depth. Trevino, a former All-Star, had a solid tenure with the Yankees but will now support the Reds' young pitching staff.