Cincinnati designated Jake Fraley for assignment after a knee hyperextension in the 10th that followed an error in left, paired with Tyler Stephenson's left-thumb issue and a squeezed bench. Fraley, 30, had slashed .232 with six homers and 23 RBIs in 67 games this season for Cincinnati. The Reds recalled Connor Phillips and Will Benson from Louisville and optioned left-hander Joe La Sorsa, signaling a shift to give more chances to the outfield depth and a younger arm for the staff. The move comes as Cincinnati weighs lineup protection with Stephenson banged up and seeks practical bench balance, a decision manager Terry Francona described as a sleep-depriving, life-changing call.

In fantasy terms, Fraley’s DFA could clear ABs for Benson and may unlock more playing time for Phillips as a potential sparkplug at the plate, while also injecting fresh bullpen options with La Sorsa out. Cincinnati’s move to lean on the farm and a rising prospect pool while navigating a pennant race indicates a pivot toward upside depth rather than short-term reclamation. With the Brewers perched first in the division, the Reds’ reshuffle matters for daily fantasy and DFS rosters as the club aims to maximize available talents and bridge through a tight schedule.