August 14, 2025 1:57 PM : Atlanta released Stephens on Thursday.
Analysis: Stephens has pitched well at Triple-A Gwinnett this season, posting a 2.57 ERA and 42:15 K:BB over 49 innings, so it's possible he exercised an opt-out clause in his minor-league contract. The 31-year-old has been used almost exclusively as a reliever during his time in the majors, but he's made some starts this season at Gwinnett. In his final appearance for Gwinnett last Friday, Stephens struck out si batters over five innings of one-run ball.