The Reds announced today that they have added another catcher to the roster, signing veteran Austin Wynns in free agency. In a subsequent move, the club designated Outfielder TJ Hopkins for assignment.
The #Reds today signed C Austin Wynns to a one-year Major League contract and designated for assignment OF TJ Hopkins.
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) December 14, 2023
Wynns spent the 2023 season with three different teams, starting with the San Francisco Giants. He became a free agent in April of 2023 and signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He was placed on waivers in May and claimed by the Colorado Rockies.
In 51 games last season, Wynns slashed .208/.268/.277 and hit one home run. He also drove in 10 runs and had one steal. Wynns joins Tyler Stephenson and Luke Maile as catchers on the Reds active roster.
Wynns' deal is reportedly for $950,000 if he makes the big league club. If he's in Triple-A Louisville, that drops to $300,000 according to Mark Sheldon of MLB.com.
Welcome to Reds Country, @AustinWynns! pic.twitter.com/L7QQLnbhXL
— Cincinnati Reds (@Reds) December 14, 2023
Hopkins was a 9th round pick by the Reds in 2019. He appeared in 25 games for the Reds last season.
Hopkins had an excellent season in AAA Louisville, where he hit .308, slugged 16 home runs, and drove in 55 RBI.
In his 41 at-bats with the Reds, Hopkins managed just seven hits.
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