Reds want catcher Hernandez back, but at a smaller price

Ramon Hernandez(notes) can return to the Cincinnati Reds if he's willing to take a pay cut.

The Cincinnati Enquirer reports the club wants to keep the veteran catcher, who can become a free agent, but that it won't pick up its $8.5 million option to do so. General manager Walt Jocketty tells the newspaper he has spoken with Hernandez's agent and has "made some progress" in negotiations.

"We'll try to work something out," Jocketty tells the newspaper.

Hernandez batted .258 for the Reds this season with five home runs and 37 RBIs in 287 at-bats.

Cincinnati's other catching options are Ryan Hanigan(notes), Corky Miller(notes) and Craig Tatum(notes). Hanigan would be the front-runner to replace Hernandez as the No. 1 catcher.

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