The Cincinnati Reds could be getting their ace back sooner than expected.
Speaking with reporters on Saturday, manager Terry Francona said Hunter Greene (elbow) continues to progress really well and will hopefully make some starts before the All-Star break. Francona also said that Greene's next step in his rehab will be throwing live batting practice.
Prior to the start of the season, the right-hander experienced stiffness in his right elbow. Greene ultimately underwent surgery in March to remove spurs and loose bodies in his right elbow, forcing him to miss the start of the season.
Injuries have certainly plagued the Reds' rotation this year. Nick Lodolo also missed the start of the season for Cincinnati due to a blister on his left finger. Upon his return, Lodolo has struggled, logging a 5.21 ERA in five starts. Rhett Lowder has also been on the IL since May 13 with a right shoulder injury. However, he is expected to return soon.
As for Greene, his return could be a huge spark for the Reds' rotation, especially since he has solidified himself as the ace of their staff over the last couple of seasons. Since the start of the 2024 season, the 26-year-old has posted a 2.76 ERA, a 29.2% strikeout rate, and an 8.1% walk rate over 258 innings of work. Greene is also in the middle of a six-year, $53 million extension he inked with the Reds in April 2023.
After throwing live batting practice, the hope is that Greene will begin a rehab assignment and play a pivotal role for the Reds during the second half of the season. Cincinnati currently sits in last place in the very competitive NL Central, but has a record of 31-31.
