Jul 21, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jake Fraley (27) celebrates after hitting a double during the third inning against the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

Cincinnati Reds Explain Why They Made Questionable Roster Decision

Originally posted on Cincinnati Reds on SI
By James Rapien | Last updated Aug 17, 2025 11:45 AM ET

The Reds designated Jake Fraley for assignment on Sunday ahead of their series finale against the Brewers.

Manager Terry Francona explained the move on Sunday morning.

“Through conversations and there's some that are kind of private, and some that I can't explain, but just came to the I think the idea that kind of giving Jake a chance to go play," Francona told reporters. "Where maybe he thinks he deserves to play, which I understand, is maybe better than him sitting the bench here.”

Fraley posted a .232/.332/.387 slash line this season with six home runs and 23 RBI in 67 games.

It was one of multiple moves Cincinnati made before their matchup with the Brewers. They recalled Will Benson and Connor Phillips from Triple-A. They also optioned Joe La Sorsa to Louisville.

The Reds are hoping to avoid being swept on Sunday. They have a 64-60 record after dropping back-to-back games to the Brewers.

"We haven't played clean and that was one of the points we talked about before the series because how fast they are and how aggressive they are," Francona said on Saturday night. "We haven't done that. That hurt us. Both nights."

Reds DFA Jake Fraley, recall Will Benson. Tyler Stevenson with a banged up left thumb available as a catcher but Francona would like to stay away from him for the day. Fraley hyperextended knee checked out OK. Francona says this is a chance to give Fraley an opportunity to find a…
— Mike Petraglia (@Trags) August 17, 2025