The Cincinnati Reds’ trade for Jose Trevino from the New York Yankees has taken on new significance following an injury to Tyler Stephenson. Trevino, a Gold Glove Award-winning catcher, was initially acquired as a competent backup but now finds himself in a more prominent role. While Trevino’s defensive skills and veteran experience are valuable, his weak hitting could pose challenges. However, if the Reds can make a savvy short-term move to add another catcher, they might mitigate these concerns. Trevino’s ability to work with the young rotation and his potential to help get the starters on a roll could be crucial in navigating through this challenging period.
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The Cincinnati Reds’ acquisition of Gold Glove Award-winning catcher Jose Trevino from the New York Yankees this offseason initially seemed like a solid, if not extraordinary, move. Even though the Reds had to part with high-leverage reliever Fernando Cruz, the addition of Trevino appeared to be a prudent decision. However, with the recent injury to Tyler Stephenson, the trade has taken on a new significance.
When the Reds traded for Trevino, they envisioned him as a competent backup catcher whose defensive skills and veteran experience would be invaluable to their young pitching staff. Stephenson’s injury, however, has thrust Trevino into a more prominent role. Trevino has averaged 81 games over his past three seasons, and his power could be more effective at Great American Ball Park than it was at Yankee Stadium. His patient approach at the plate, often placing him in the top quarter of the league in strikeout rate, could provide more opportunities for the Reds’ speedy players to steal bases.
Reds Catcher Jose Trevino Steps into the Spotlight
On the downside, Trevino is generally a weak hitter, with a career 75 OPS+ (where 100 is average), and he has hit under .220 in each of the past two seasons. This, combined with the loss of Stephenson and any potential lingering effects when he returns, could pose significant challenges for the Reds. However, if Cincinnati can make a savvy short-term move to add another catcher to pair with Trevino, they might be able to mitigate these concerns.
The situation became more critical when Trevino exited a game last week following a foul tip off his hand. Fortunately, the latest reports indicate that there was no fracture, and Trevino is considered day-to-day. According to Gordon Wittenmyer:
“Looks like Reds C Jose Trevino will avoid IL. CT scan showed no fracture. He’s considered day to day, but said Saturday before the scan: ‘I could play today.'”
Despite the challenges, having Trevino as the primary catcher working with the young rotation could be beneficial. If he can help get the starters on a roll, the rotation has a chance to be formidable, and Stephenson’s eventual return could further bolster the team.
While this wasn’t the original plan for the Reds, Trevino’s experience and leadership could be crucial in navigating through this challenging period. As a former All-Star and a veteran who has been in similar situations before, Trevino has the potential to help pull the team through.
