Reds Await Greene Return as Bullpen, Offense Struggle

The Cincinnati Reds are preparing for a pivotal return in their rotation as Hunter Greene begins a rehab assignment in the Arizona Complex League on June 18. The ace right-hander, who missed the first half of the season due to elbow surgery, is expected to return before the All-Star break. His return could provide much-needed stability to a rotation that ranks among the worst in baseball by fWAR.

Greene, who was taken off the 60-day injured list after surgery in March, is scheduled for four rehab starts before rejoining the team. Manager Terry Francona previously indicated that Greene could return as early as June 7-9 against the Phillies or June 10-12 versus the Cubs. If he returns for one of those series, he would make his second start after the All-Star break. Greene’s previous performance, 29.2% strikeout rate and 2.76 ERA in 45 starts from 2024-25, suggests he could immediately elevate the Reds' pitching staff.

With Greene sidelined, Chase Burns has stepped in admirably, posting a 2.14 ERA and 29.6% strikeout rate over 75 2/3 innings. That strikeout rate ranks third among qualified starters, just ahead of NL Cy Young winner Paul Skenes. However, the rest of the rotation leaves much to be desired. Brady Singer, Nick Lodolo, and Rhett Lowder have combined for a 4.10 ERA or worse, with Singer and Lodolo below replacement level by fWAR.

The Reds' bullpen is also dealing with injuries. Pierce Johnson and Emilio Pagán will throw live batting practice on Monday and Friday, respectively. Johnson, who had a 3.27 ERA in 22 innings before going on the IL, is expected to return as a middle reliever. Pagán, out with a Grade 2 hamstring strain, is likely to return in early July and will reclaim his closer role once he's back.

On the offensive side, catcher Jose Trevino was activated from the 10-day IL on Tuesday after missing a month due to a hamstring strain. P.J. Higgins was optioned to Triple-A, and Higgins' 4-for-16 performance in place of Trevino did little to justify his continued presence on the 26-man roster. The Reds could designate Higgins for assignment if a 40-man spot is needed.

In other roster news, utilityman Sam Haggerty has joined the Reds’ Triple-A affiliate on a minor league deal. Haggerty was released by the Rangers after being designated for assignment last week. The switch-hitter has a 119 wRC+ against left-handed pitching but has struggled this season with a 12 wRC+ in 47 plate appearances.

The Reds face the Braves on Thursday and will look to improve their 33-36 record with a healthier rotation and improved bullpen. Whether the additions can turn their season around remains to be seen.