RADIO
Robert Stephenson Hoping To Compete For No. 5 Starter Role
7 years agoIt was just two years ago that Cincinnati Reds right-hander Robert Stephenson was regarded as one of the team's top pitching prospects. Unfortunately for him, he did not come as advertised in the 2016 season, struggling with his control and accuracy in his eight big league starts. The right-hander got a longer look in 2017, pitching in 25 games for the Reds (11 starts and 14 relief appearances). He wound up with a 5-6 record, 4.68 ERA, 86 strikeouts, and 53 walks in 84 2/3 innings of work. Stephenson has a live arm, with a fastball that can reach the upper 90s and solid secondary stuff. He is expected to battle with Amir Garrett and Sal Romano for the No. 5 starter role in the Reds rotation in Spring Training. If he wins the job, Stephenson's stuff keeps him on the fantasy radar and if he is ever able to cut down on his walk rate, he could wind up being a useful fantasy asset. If not, his future could ultimately be in the bullpen. Be on the lookout for any signs of improved command this season and be ready to snap him up off waivers if so.
