The Cincinnati Reds announced that pitcher Hunter Greene will have a procedure this week to remove bone spurs in his pitching elbow. The surgery is expected to sideline Greene until at least July, raising questions about its impact on the team’s pitching rotation as the season progresses. The Hunter Greene elbow procedure brings a mixture of concern and cautious optimism among fans and analysts.
Positive Outlook Despite Time Away from the Mound
Harold Reynolds of MLB Network expressed encouragement regarding the news, noting that the situation could have been more severe. Reynolds pointed out that the procedure is less invasive than the Tommy John surgery Greene had previously undergone.
“He had a Tommy John surgery a few years back. This is better news. It’s not a full season. It’s not all the recovery and everything else. Bone chips. Glad to have them removed and go do that.”
– Harold Reynolds, MLB Network Analyst
Though Greene’s absence is significant, the Reds remain optimistic about their pitching depth throughout the early and middle parts of the season.
Reds’ Pitching Depth Remains Stable During Greene’s Absence
Entering spring training, Cincinnati’s pitching roster was viewed as one of the team’s strengths. Even with Greene sidelined, prospects such as Rhett Lowder and Chase Burns are positioned to take on key roles, potentially as the team’s No. 4 and No. 5 starters. Other pitchers, including Brandon Williamson, Jose Franco, and Chase Petty, are also available to fill gaps if needed.
In light of Greene’s procedure, the Reds named Andrew Abbott as their Opening Day starter. Abbott has shown steady improvement since entering the major leagues, highlighted by an All-Star selection in 2025 and an impressive sub-three ERA that season.
Balancing Immediate Challenges with Future Prospects
Greene’s team will undoubtedly feel his absence, particularly given his talent and previous role in the rotation. However, if Cincinnati can navigate the coming months without substantial setbacks, Greene’s return later in the season could provide a crucial boost for the stretch run.
The Reds are relying on a blend of emerging pitchers and experienced arms to maintain competitiveness, hoping their depth will keep the season on track until Greene is ready to contribute again.
Implications for Cincinnati Reds’ 2026 Campaign
This procedure highlights the ongoing challenges the Reds face in managing their pitching staff’s health while staying competitive. The timeline for Greene’s return places emphasis on the development of other starters during the first half of the year.
With a balanced rotation and rising prospects waiting in the wings, the Reds are positioned to endure this period of adjustment. If the Hunter Greene elbow procedure leads to successful healing without further complications, Cincinnati’s pitching could strengthen at a pivotal point in the season, potentially influencing their postseason chances.
#MLBNHotStove reacts to the reported news of Hunter Greene being sidelined until July with an elbow injury. pic.twitter.com/a7IYbRTnBF
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) March 10, 2026
