Reds Catcher and Angels Pitcher Clash in Salary Arbitration

Tyler Stephenson and Reid Detmers argue for higher salaries in MLB arbitration hearings

Feb. 9, 2026 at 9:47pm

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Cincinnati Reds catcher Tyler Stephenson and Los Angeles Angels pitcher Reid Detmers have gone to salary arbitration hearings, with Stephenson asking for $6.8 million and the Reds arguing for $6.55 million, while Detmers argued for $2,925,000 and the Angels for $2,625,000. Decisions on the cases are expected on Tuesday, as players lead 5-1 in cases so far this year.

Why it matters

Salary arbitration is an important process in Major League Baseball, allowing players and teams to negotiate contracts and avoid lengthy legal battles. The outcomes of these cases can have significant impacts on team budgets and player careers.

The details

Stephenson, 29, hit .239 with 13 home runs and 50 RBIs in 88 games last year, missing time due to a strained oblique and a broken thumb. Detmers, 26, moved to the bullpen in 2022 and went 5-3 with a 3.96 ERA and 3 saves in 61 relief appearances. Both players are seeking raises after productive seasons.

  • The hearings for Stephenson and Detmers took place on Monday, February 10, 2026.
  • Decisions on the cases are expected to be announced on Tuesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Tyler Stephenson

A 29-year-old catcher for the Cincinnati Reds who hit .239 with 13 home runs and 50 RBIs in 88 games last season.

Reid Detmers

A 26-year-old pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels who went 5-3 with a 3.96 ERA and 3 saves in 61 relief appearances in 2022.

Cincinnati Reds

The Major League Baseball team that employs Tyler Stephenson.

Los Angeles Angels

The Major League Baseball team that employs Reid Detmers.

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What they’re saying

“Catcher Tyler Stephenson argued his salary arbitration case against the Cincinnati Reds on Monday and left-hander Reid Detmers had his hearing with the Los Angeles Angels.”

— AP News

What’s next

Decisions on the Stephenson and Detmers cases are expected to be announced on Tuesday, February 11, 2026.

The takeaway

Salary arbitration is a critical process for MLB players and teams to negotiate fair contracts. The outcomes of these cases can have significant impacts on team budgets and player careers, making the decisions highly anticipated within the baseball community.