The Cincinnati Reds lost several catchers to free agency across Double-A, Triple-A, and the major leagues after the 2024 season, leaving them with only Tyler Stephenson on the 40-man roster. To address the need for depth, particularly in the upper levels of the minor leagues, the Reds signed Alex Jackson to a minor league contract as free agency began. They’ve since added another catcher, Will Banfield, on a similar deal.
Banfield, 25, was selected by the Miami Marlins in the 2nd round of the 2018 draft from Brookwood High School. He has worked his way through the Marlins’ farm system, spending the 2023 season at Double-A Pensacola, where he had his best year in the minors, hitting 23 home runs and posting a .258/.302/.472 line.
In 2024, Banfield spent the full season at Triple-A Jacksonville, but his power didn’t carry over as he slashed .247/.297/.379 with nine home runs in 371 plate appearances, along with 24 walks and 105 strikeouts. Throughout his career, he has had a lower walk rate and a tendency for strikeouts.
Banfield has shown some promise against left-handed pitching, hitting .306/.330/.482 against them in 2024, compared to a more balanced split in 2023. Defensively, Banfield is most notable for his abilities behind the plate. He’s a strong receiver with good athleticism and an impressive arm. In Jacksonville, his average pop time to second base was 1.95 seconds, which is considered above average and better than any Reds catcher in 2024.
The Reds are likely to sign additional catchers this offseason, possibly adding a more proven backup through free agency or trade. However, the signings of Banfield and Jackson provide the Reds with some added depth, similar to the acquisition of Austin Wynns the previous year.
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