Tyler Callihan, a third-round pick by the Cincinnati Reds in the 2019 draft, was pulled from the Louisville Bats’ game against the Memphis Redbirds after receiving a call from manager Pat Kelly, informing him he was being called up to the majors. “It was unbelievable,” said the 24-year-old Jacksonville native. “It’s something you work your whole life for. I was excited to share the moment with my Triple-A teammates.” He quickly got in touch with his family—his parents booked flights immediately, and his wife, already in Louisville, drove up. He expected around ten supporters in attendance for his MLB debut in the first game of a doubleheader against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Reds manager Terry Francona slotted Callihan into the starting lineup, batting eighth and playing left field—though he’s also capable at second and third base. “He’s been really solid in Triple-A,” Francona said. “He gives us versatility, and he’s a good kid. He’ll start the first game, and with a couple of lefties pitching, he might sit later, but it’s exciting to see him contribute.”
Callihan, who hit .263 in the Arizona Fall League to make up for time lost to injuries, was slashing .303/.410/.528 with four doubles, two triples, four homers, and 12 RBIs in 24 games for Louisville. In his debut, he flew out to left and grounded out before being pinch-hit for by Santiago Espinal in the eighth inning of a 1-0 game.
Austin Hays missed the first game due to a sore hamstring suffered Monday night while running the bases. Francona explained, “The MRI showed minor inflammation. If he feels good, we’ll try to avoid the IL, but we’re managing it carefully. It’s similar to what Matt McLain dealt with recently.” Additionally, Jeimer Candelario was placed on the 10-day IL after his MRI revealed an issue. Francona added, “We’re not sure of the exact timeline—we just want to let things settle and see how he progresses.”
