A device that is useful for managing moisture content within a fuel cell assembly (24) includes a hydrophilic layer (46) between a solid reactant distribution plate layer and a hydrophobic layer (38) adjacent to a catalyst layer (34). In disclosed examples, the hydrophilic layer (46) is positioned relative to the reactant distribution plate to have a flow field configuration similar to that of the reactant distribution plate so that the hydrophilic layer does not interfere with reactant flow through the hydrophobic layer to the catalyst layer. A disclosed example includes a reactant distribution plate comprising a solid, non-porous material and the hydrophilic material to establish the hydrophilic layer (46). In another example, the hydrophilic layer (46) is applied to, secured to or positioned against of ribs of the reactant distribution plate.