Tyler Stephenson back from IL as Cincinnati Reds make moves ahead of New York Mets series

Just in time for their big showdown against the New York Mets, the Cincinnati Reds activated starting catcher Tyler Stephenson from the injured list and slotted him in the seventh spot of the starting lineup for the series opener.

Stephenson has missed the past three weeks because of a fracture at the tip of his left thumb and will catch with a custom-made protective sleeve over the thumb, under his glove.

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Stephenson was fitted for the sleeve two weeks ago and has fared well using it during bullpen sessions and a two-game minor-league rehab stint.

Rookie catcher Will Banfield was optioned to Triple-A Louisville in the corresponding move.

Additionally Friday, the Reds announced that left-hander Joe La Sorsa has declined an outright assignment to the minors after clearing waivers and elected to become a free agent.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati Reds activate Tyler Stephenson from IL ahead of Mets series