MAJOR OOST: Reds Catch A Big Break Behind The Plate: Cincinnati Adds Veteran Gold Glove Catcher To Bolster Depth And Stability

In a move to bolster their catching depth following the departure of Austin Wynns, the Cincinnati Reds have signed veteran backstop Jacob Stallings to a minor league contract, the team announced Monday. Stallings, a former Gold Glove winner, is expected to report to Triple-A Louisville immediately, though he could be called up quickly if the need arises at the major league level.

Stallings, 34, brings a wealth of experience to a Reds organization that suddenly finds itself thin behind the plate. With Tyler Stephenson and Jose Trevino currently healthy, Stallings won’t be rushed into a major league role, but his presence offers Cincinnati much-needed insurance in case of injury. The Reds designated Austin Wynns for assignment over the weekend, and he was subsequently traded to the Oakland Athletics for cash considerations.

A former Pittsburgh Pirate and Miami Marlin, Stallings has played in 394 big league games across parts of eight seasons. He owns a career slash line of .234/.306/.336, but it’s his defense that has long been his calling card. Stallings won the NL Gold Glove Award in 2021, thanks to elite framing metrics, strong leadership, and his ability to handle pitching staffs with confidence and poise.

Cincinnati’s catching depth at the minor league level has been a growing concern. Prospects like Mat Nelson, Logan Tanner, and Alfredo Duno remain years away from contributing in the majors, and Triple-A options such as Will Banfield and P.J. Higgins have yet to prove themselves as viable big league backups. Stallings gives the club a trustworthy alternative should the Reds be forced to carry a third catcher again this season.

This signing also signals a proactive approach from the front office, which appears unwilling to let its contending season be derailed by a lack of roster depth. With the Reds still in the thick of the National League Central race, small but savvy moves like this could pay dividends later in the summer. Stallings’ calm presence and experience in high-leverage situations might become crucial down the stretch.

While there’s no immediate plan to add Stallings to the 26-man roster, that could change quickly if injuries strike. For now, the veteran will serve as a stabilizing force in Louisville and a valuable mentor to the organization’s young arms. If and when his number is called, the Reds can be confident they have a reliable glove ready to step in.