CINCINNATI -- Former Reds manager Dusty Baker often said relievers don't wear out -- they rust out from lack of use. New to bullpen work, Reds starting pitching prospect Robert Stephenson pitched Tuesday following six days off and wasn't very effective.
Stephenson allowed four earned runs and four hits with two walks and two strikeouts, while throwing 53 pitches over 2 2/3 innings. All of his runs and hits surrendered in the seventh inning came with two outs.
"It's definitely been a little bit of a challenge," Stephenson said of learning to be a reliever on Wednesday.