Full Breakdown
Cincinnati Reds' Hunter Greene to Undergo Elbow Surgery, Expected to Miss Season's First Half
3/11/2026, 12:33:51 PM
Hunter Greene's Injury and Surgery Details
Cincinnati Reds right-hander Hunter Greene, a key player for the team, is set to undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow to remove bone chips and loose bodies. The procedure, scheduled for March 13, 2026, is expected to sideline Greene for approximately 14 to 16 weeks, potentially keeping him out until July. This injury follows Greene's previous discomfort, which he managed during the latter part of the 2025 season while helping the Reds reach the postseason.
Greene's elbow issues were first noted after he reported stiffness following his spring training debut on February 28, 2026. An MRI revealed the need for surgery after Greene had previously received an injection to alleviate discomfort in October 2025. Reds president of baseball operations Nick Krall confirmed that Greene's ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) remains intact, which is a positive sign compared to more severe injuries.
Impact on the Reds' Rotation
The absence of Greene, who has been a standout pitcher with a 2.76 ERA and 132 strikeouts in 107 2/3 innings during the 2025 season, poses a significant challenge for the Reds as they aim for a successful 2026 campaign. Greene's performance has been pivotal, and his loss is felt deeply within the organization. Manager Terry Francona acknowledged, "We will miss him. There is no getting around that," while emphasizing the team's depth in pitching.
With Greene out, the Reds will rely on left-hander Andrew Abbott, who has been named the Opening Day starter, along with Nick Lodolo and Brady Singer. Young prospects like Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder are also expected to step up in the rotation. The Reds have expressed confidence in their pitching depth, which they believe can help mitigate the impact of Greene's absence.
Official Statements and Responses
Nick Krall remarked on the situation, stating, "It's definitely good news compared to what it could have been," highlighting the intact condition of Greene's UCL. Greene himself expressed frustration over the injury but acknowledged the necessity of the procedure for his long-term health. He stated, "It's important that this procedure take place now instead of trying to pitch through it, not be sharp on the mound and risk further injury."
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the optimism surrounding Greene's recovery, some fans and analysts have expressed frustration regarding the timing of the surgery, noting that Greene's elbow issues had persisted since the previous season. Critics argue that the Reds should have acted sooner to prevent a more severe injury.
What's Next for the Reds
As the Reds prepare for the 2026 season, they will need to adjust their rotation plans significantly. Greene's surgery places him on the 60-day injured list, allowing the team to make necessary roster adjustments. The Reds will focus on maintaining competitiveness in the National League Central while awaiting Greene's return, which is crucial for their playoff aspirations.
In summary, while Greene's surgery is a setback for the Reds, the organization remains hopeful that their depth in pitching will help them navigate the early part of the season without their ace.
