Robert Stephenson’s return to the big leagues didn’t go as hoped. Not for him, not for his team, and not for anyone longing to see if the Reds’ 2011 first-round draft pick could finally figure out a way to stay.



Against the Mets in Flushing, Stephenson’s first Reds start since last Sept. 29 lasted just four innings. His stat line was like the road team’s 8-0 getaway day loss itself: Mostly forgettable – three runs, three hits and four strikeouts in 76 pitches – but it is the five walks allowed that stand out, because Stephenson walks a lot of guys.



In 25 appearances, including 11 starts, for the Reds last season, Stephenson walked an astounding 5.6 batters per nine innings. In his eight 2016 starts for the Reds, he walked 4.6 guys per nine. The league average for walks per nine innings allowed by each team is 3.3.



It’s not like he’s avoided handing free passes in the minors, either. As he rose through the...