Reds: Roster prediction after the 2023 All-Star break

This is sure to get a lot of groans from the Reds fanbase, but there's a method to the madness. Remember, the MLB trade deadline is just a couple weeks after the All-Star break.

Carrying three catchers hasn't made sense for quite some time. One could make the argument that, as a whole, the one catcher who's underperforming the most is actually Tyler Stephenson. Stephenson's bat and defense have not been up to par this season, but the Reds are not going to option the backstop to Triple-A.

Luke Maile has been a pleasant surprise, and while Curt Casali's bat has offered little to nothing, his veteran presence and ability to handle this group of young pitchers cannot go unnoticed. Look for one of these two veterans to possibly be moved at the trade deadline.

Kevin Newman could easily be optioned when the Reds make the decision to recall Elly De La Cruz. But Newman's recent surge and success against left-handers may force Jose Barrero to make the 90-minute drive down I-71 while Cincinnati hangs on to the veteran.

Wil Myers has not lived up to the $7.5-million deal he signed before the 2023 season, but there's still time for the former San Diego Padres outfielder to turn things around. Look for Cincinnati to continue to give Myers chances to showcase his talents as the season progresses, though he's currently on the IL.

All four players listed as bench players could be trade targets by the end of July. Once the Cincinnati Reds are able to move on from one of their catchers or Myers, look for the team to finally promote Christian Encarnacion-Strand to the major leagues.