Hunter Greene Returns as Reds Starter Wednesday

The Reds activate their ace from the injured list ahead of a key stretch drive and a tough schedule.

Hunter Greene Returns as Reds Starter Wednesday

Greene's return date to the Reds rotation is set for Wednesday with a start against the Phillies after more than two months on the injured list due to a right groin strain. He has built his workload in four minor league appearances, including a 79-pitch, 5 1/3 inning outing for Louisville on Friday. Manager Terry Francona said he is probably not there yet to throw 100 pitches, but the ramp up and the maintained velocity provided the team with confidence to activate him.

The Reds are weighing rotation changes with Greene back. Either Chase Burns or Nick Martinez could move to bullpen duties, and Nick Lodolo's blister has kept him sidelined. If healthy, the likely rotation would be Greene, Lodolo, Andrew Abbott, Brady Singer, and Zack Littell, giving Cincinnati extra depth to handle a busy period while Lodolo returns from his issue and the bullpen absorbs the workload.

Greene's comeback illustrates a push to balance youth with depth in a tight playoff chase. The team must manage innings carefully to avoid setbacks, especially with a schedule that includes strong opponents and the continued recovery timeline for Lodolo.

Depth in the rotation provides flexibility for Francona, but it also raises questions about roles and usage. If Greene stays healthy, Cincinnati gains an edge by stabilizing a staff that can adapt to injuries and short starts, while still keeping a strong bullpen ready for late-inning work.

Highlights

Cincinnati will watch Greene's workload closely as the stretch begins.