Reds catcher Mesoraco says he's healthy, hip is 'no problem'

Mar 10, 2014; Surprise, AZ, USA; Cincinnati Reds catcher Devin Mesoraco (39) after the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Expectations for Cincinnati Reds catcher Devon Mesoraco had some high expectations entering the 2015 season.

In 2014, the now 27-year-old was an All-Star, hitting .273 with 25 home runs and 80 RBI. His 2015 season was cut short, however, after a hip impingement caused him to have surgery after just 23 games.

That hip injury is now looking like a thing of the past -- he told the Cincinnati Enquirer that he's been practicing pain-free:

Following Mesoraco's injury, Brayan Pena received the lion's share of innings behind the plate, playing in 108 games. Pena, though, has since signed with the St. Louis Cardinals, leaving the Reds without a veteran option at catcher. Tucker Barnhart, just 24 last season, appeared in 81 games and seems like a good bet to split time with Mesoraco until he can prove he's fully healthy.