The Reds are going to take some more time and a closer look at the lower back pain that resulted in Tyler Stephenson being scratched from a game.

The Reds are sending Tyler Stephenson to get an MRI on his back to make sure nothing serious is going on, according to MLB.com's Mark Sheldon. Stephenson, 28, appeared in 138 games for Cincinnati last season and is expected to play a big role again this season.

Today's Cincinnati Reds exhibition game against the Athletics was moved up to 3:05 p.m. (ET) because of rain in the evening forecast.

Steer, who has never been on the injured list in his professional career, appears to be at least a long shot for the opening roster. But if he’s ready on time, it brings the 13-man hitting side of the Reds roster into greater clarity, if not an infield that could include him at first base to start the season.

Cincinnati is 13-13-1 vs the Athletics in the Cactus League. The Reds are 6-1-1 at Goodyear Ballpark this spring. Nick Lodolo, who will make his third start of the spring today ag