What's Happening?
Tyler Stephenson, catcher for the Cincinnati Reds, is testing a thumb guard fitted for his catcher's mitt as he recovers from a thumb injury. According to MLB.com, Stephenson played catch and blocked softer practice balls on Monday, showing encouraging signs of progress. He is scheduled to take batting practice on Friday. The Reds are currently in contention for a wild-card spot, trailing by just 2.5 games. Stephenson's return to game action could be pivotal for the Reds as they aim to secure a postseason berth.
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Why It's Important?
Stephenson's potential return is significant for the Reds, who are in the midst of a competitive race for a wild-card spot. His presence could bolster the team's lineup and defensive capabilities, providing a much-needed boost as they vie for playoff qualification. The outcome of his recovery and subsequent performance could influence the Reds' chances of advancing to the postseason, impacting team morale and fan engagement.
What's Next?
Stephenson is set to take batting practice on Friday, which will be a crucial step in determining his readiness for game action. The Reds will closely monitor his progress, as his participation could be a deciding factor in their playoff aspirations. If Stephenson is cleared to play, he may join the team for upcoming games, potentially influencing their performance in the final stretch of the regular season.
