Goodyear, Arizona – Cincinnati Reds fans are bracing for potentially significant time without their ace pitcher, Hunter Greene, as he prepares for arthroscopic surgery to address issues in his right elbow. The 26-year-old right-hander is expected to undergo the procedure on Wednesday, March 11th, performed by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles. This development casts a shadow over the Reds’ promising season outlook and raises questions about their pitching depth as they aim to build on their 2024 playoff appearance.
The diagnosis reveals the presence of bone spurs and loose bodies within Greene’s elbow, discovered after he reported stiffness following his spring training debut on February 28th. Whereas the exact timing of the initial discomfort isn’t fully clear, team officials indicated the issue had been present, intermittently, since the latter part of the 2025 season. Greene received injections to manage the pain and continue pitching during the Reds’ push for a postseason berth, but the underlying problem persisted. An MRI last Friday confirmed the need for surgical intervention, and Dr. ElAttrache’s subsequent evaluation solidified the diagnosis. The team is optimistic that the surgery will provide a long-term solution, allowing Greene to return to full strength.
Greene’s Injury History and the Road to Recovery
This isn’t Greene’s first encounter with injury concerns. In 2025, he was twice sidelined with a right groin strain, first on May 9th and again after a brief return in late May, keeping him out until August 13th. Despite these setbacks, he managed a career-low 19 starts and 107 and two-thirds innings pitched. However, even with limited appearances, Greene showcased his exceptional talent, averaging 99.5 mph with his four-seam fastball – the highest average velocity in Major League Baseball among pitchers with at least 1,250 pitches thrown. He also recorded 296 pitches of 100 mph or greater, second only to Mason Miller of the Oakland Athletics, who threw 422.
The current prognosis indicates a recovery timeline of 14 to 16 weeks, potentially allowing Greene to return to the mound sometime in July. Reds President of Baseball Operations, Nick Krall, emphasized the positive aspect of the situation, stating, “It’s definitely good news compared to what it could have been. You’re thinking the worst.” Crucially, the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) – often the focus of concern in elbow injuries – appears to be intact, avoiding the need for a more extensive Tommy John surgery. Dr. ElAttrache previously performed Tommy John surgery on Greene when he was in the minor leagues in 2019.
Impact on the Cincinnati Reds’ Pitching Rotation
Greene’s absence will undoubtedly create a significant void in the Reds’ starting rotation. Last season, he posted a 7-4 record with a 2.76 ERA, playing a pivotal role in the team’s Wild Card berth – their first playoff appearance since 2020. His ability to consistently generate strikeouts, evidenced by 169 punch-outs in 150 and one-third innings pitched in 2024, will be sorely missed. The team will now rely on a combination of established and emerging pitchers to fill the gap.
Andrew Abbott, Nick Lodolo, Brady Singer, Chase Burns, and Rhett Lowder are expected to form the core of the starting five as the season begins. These pitchers will need to step up and demonstrate their ability to consistently deliver quality starts. The Reds will also be closely monitoring the development of their pitching prospects, potentially calling upon them to contribute as the season progresses. The depth of the pitching staff will be tested, and the performance of these individuals will be critical to the team’s success.
A Look at Potential Replacements
Chase Burns, a highly touted prospect, will likely see an increased role in Greene’s absence. Burns has demonstrated impressive stuff and command during spring training, and the Reds are eager to see how he performs at the major league level. Similarly, Rhett Lowder, another promising young pitcher, could be given an opportunity to showcase his talent. The team will need to carefully manage the workload of these young pitchers to avoid overexertion and potential injuries.
Veterans Andrew Abbott and Nick Lodolo will be expected to anchor the rotation, providing stability and experience. Brady Singer, acquired in a trade, will also be a key contributor. The Reds’ coaching staff will operate closely with these pitchers to refine their mechanics and develop strategies to maximize their effectiveness. The success of the pitching staff will depend on their ability to work together and support each other.
Beyond the Immediate Impact: Long-Term Implications
While the news of Greene’s surgery is undoubtedly disappointing, the fact that it’s a relatively minor procedure – compared to Tommy John surgery – offers a glimmer of hope. The Reds are optimistic that he will produce a full recovery and return to his previous form. However, the injury does put an end to any Cy Young Award aspirations he might have had for the 2026 season. The team will need to adjust its expectations and focus on building a competitive roster that can contend for a playoff spot even without their ace for an extended period.
The Reds’ front office will also need to assess their long-term pitching needs. This injury highlights the importance of developing a deep and talented pitching pipeline. The team may consider acquiring additional pitching depth through trades or free agency, depending on their performance in the early part of the season. The goal is to ensure that they have enough quality arms to compete at a high level, both now and in the future.
Krall acknowledged Greene’s discomfort had been present towards the end of the 2025 season, with injections used to allow him to finish strong during the playoff push. However, the issue resurfaced before spring training, leading to the MRI and subsequent diagnosis. He also noted that Greene had difficulty throwing his offspeed pitches in his last spring training outing, indicating the elbow was already affecting his performance.
The Reds’ single-game tickets for the 2026 season are currently on sale, offering fans the opportunity to support the team as they navigate this challenging situation. The organization remains committed to providing an exciting and competitive product on the field, and they are confident that they can overcome this setback and achieve their goals.
As Hunter Greene begins his rehabilitation, the Cincinnati Reds face a crucial test of their depth and resilience. The team’s ability to navigate this adversity will be a key factor in determining their success in the 2026 season. Updates on Greene’s progress will be provided as they become available, and fans are encouraged to stay tuned for further developments.
The next major update regarding Greene’s recovery is expected in approximately four weeks, following an initial assessment of his progress post-surgery. Fans can find the latest information on the Cincinnati Reds official website and through team social media channels. We encourage you to share your thoughts and support for Hunter Greene in the comments below.