The Cincinnati Reds have re-signed right-handed pitcher Tejay Antone, bringing back the veteran reliever on a minor league contract, according to multiple reports. Antone, a fan favorite in the organization, carries a 2.47 career ERA for the Reds — a mark that makes him an attractive piece despite his recent injury history.
At 32 years old, Antone has had a rocky road: he’s undergone three Tommy John surgeries, most recently on his right elbow. But the Reds are banking on his bounce-back ability and proven effectiveness when healthy. His 2.47 ERA reflects the success he’s had in relief work at the major-league level.
The new deal is a minor league contract, which gives Cincinnati flexibility and minimal financial risk while offering Antone a chance to fight for a spot on the 40-man roster. For the Reds, the move is all about upside; for Antone, it’s an opportunity to reclaim his role in the bullpen.
Antone made his major league debut with Cincinnati in 2020 and quickly emerged as a valuable bullpen arm. Across his time with the club, he has shown an ability to miss bats and generate weak contact, traits that make him particularly effective when he’s at full strength.
Still, his recent injury history is hard to overlook. After undergoing his third Tommy John surgery, Antone appeared in only a small number of minor-league games last season, showing understandable inconsistency as he attempted to work his way back. That makes this contract something of a “prove-it” opportunity.
Reds leadership appears comfortable with that balance of risk and potential reward. Should Antone show positive signs in spring training, he could give Cincinnati a low-cost boost to a bullpen that has needed more stability and veteran experience.
Antone has long expressed how much pitching for the Reds means to him, referring to the city and organization as “home.” A successful comeback this season would not only strengthen Cincinnati’s relief corps but also mark a gratifying personal milestone in his long road back.
As the Reds prepare for the upcoming season, the decision to bring back Antone reflects their approach of combining young, developing arms with experienced veterans who offer upside. If Antone can stay healthy and regain his prior form, this signing could prove to be one of the more quietly impactful moves of the offseason.
