Reds Make Roster Announcement Ahead of Astros Series originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Cincinnati Reds reinstated first baseman Christian Encarnacion-Strand from the injured list Friday and designated catcher Austin Wynns for assignment in the corresponding move.
Encarnacion-Strand had been sidelined since April 17 due to lower back inflammation. After a lengthy rehab assignment, he’s been cleared to return to the Reds’ active roster.
Advertisement
Before the injury, the 25-year-old slashed .158/.183/.198 with two home runs in 57 at-bats. However, he showed encouraging signs at the plate during his rehab stint with Triple-A Louisville, going 12-for-37 (.324) with two home runs over 10 games.
Mar 29, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds first baseman Christian Encarnacion-Strand (33) runs the bases after hitting a solo home run in the sixth inning against the San Francisco Giants at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images© Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
Wynns, 34, had been part of a three-catcher setup since Tyler Stephenson returned from the injured list on May 2. The Reds kept Wynns on the roster longer than expected, reportedly out of concern he might be claimed off waivers if exposed.
In 18 games with Cincinnati, Wynns hit .400 with a 1.142 OPS, three home runs, and 11 RBIs, but saw limited playing time following Stephenson’s return.
Advertisement
With Encarnacion-Strand back in the fold, the Reds open a weekend seires against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Great American Ball P
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 6, 2025, where it first appeared.