What does Bubba Thompson's latest waiver claim signal?

Former Rangers outfielder, Bubba Thompson, has been claimed once again by the Cincinnati Reds. After being designated for an assignment and later traded earlier this offseason, this move may seem puzzling for Reds fans at first. However, upon further investigation, it is easy to see why the move was made.

The first issue Reds fans may have with the move revolves around the cost. To make the claim, Cincinnati DFA'd RHP Levi Stoudt. Levi was a third round pick in 2019, and was a top-30 prospect in the Reds system to begin last year. However, between Triple-A and the big leagues last season, he struggled mightily. Levi posted a 6.23 ERA across 82.1 innings in Louisville and an even worse 9.58 ERA across 10.1 innings in Cincinnati. The risk of losing a pitcher with upside is never good, but Stoudt may end up clearing waivers.

Another reason Stoudt may have been DFA'd is the log jam of pitching that is currently set to begin the year in Louisville. Both Brandon Williamson and Connor Phillips will most likely begin their seasons in Triple-A, to go with an already crowded system. Don't be surprised if Stoudt is traded within the next week.

Going into the 2024 campaign, the last open roster spot in Cincinnati appears to be for the the last bench bat. This spot will most likely go to a right handed outfielder to split platoon duties with lefties Jake Fraley, TJ Friedl, and Will Benson. Spencer Steer will already spend most of his starts in left-field, but another righty is important for days that left handed pitchers are on the mound. As the roster currently stands, the competition for this last spot will be between Stuart Fairchild, Blake Dunn, Rece Hinds, Jacob Hurtubise (hits lefty), and now Bubba Thompson.

Last season Bubba Thompson slashed an underwhelming .170/.237/.283 across 53 at bats with 4 stolen bases. An offensive repeat like this will not be enough for Bubba to make the team, but he does offer important tools for a bench bat. Bubba has elite speed and is a plus defender. Both tools could provide help for David Bell late in games this year. Additionally, if he can manage to hit anywhere near the .259/.313/.410 that he slashed in Triple-A last season, his tools will allow him to make regular appearances throughout the season.

Although a roster spot is not guaranteed for Bubba, he should have a real chance to win the job as the last outfield bench bat. Stuart Fairchild is still the favorite given his playing time last year, but Bubba is just as likely a candidate as Blake Dunn, Rece Hinds, or Jacob Hurtubise. It'll be important to keep an eye out this Spring Training on the competition for this last bench spot which has just become even more competitive.