Terry Francona Sends Message After Reds’ Unexpected Decision

Reds' Jake Fraley Designated for Assignment

Fraley was pulled from the game due to injury, and the Reds immediately decided to DFA him. In a game where the Reds used everyone on their bench besides the backup catcher, Fraley gave it all he could before having to leave the field in extra innings.

Red manager Terry Francona explained the decision on Sunday.

"Giving Jake a chance to play where maybe he thinks he deserves to play, which I understand, is maybe better than having him sit the bench here," Francona said, according to Brian Giesenschlag.

While he had his lowest batting average since 2021, Francona made it clear that this was not an easy decision.

"It's a big deal and we take it that way," he added.

The lefty made his MLB debut in 2019 with the Seattle Mariners. He came to Cincinnati in 2022. Fraley played 100+ games in each of his last two seasons with the team. He was batting .232 this season in 67 games.

August 16 was the left fielder's first bit of action in five days. He's only played in seven games this month as he came off the bench in three of those appearances. The seven-year veteran continues to slump as he's just 1-17 in the month of August.

Joe La Sorsa was the pitcher sent to AAA after the Reds' extra innings loss. Connor Phillips was recalled in his place. Will Benson, an outfielder will be the one to replace Fraley.

Benson was the Cleveland Guardians' No. 14 overall pick back in 2016. He's had a few stints on the Reds roster this season. With Fraley DFA'd, Benson will have more opportunities to increase his .224/.269/.415 slash line.