The Cincinnati Reds may be on the verge of getting a major reinforcement just in time for one of their most important series of the season. Manager Terry Francona offered an encouraging update on ace right-hander Hunter Greene during a recent appearance on MLB Network Radio, signaling that Greene is on track to return from the injured list in time for this weekend’s pivotal showdown against the Chicago Cubs.
Greene, who has been sidelined with a minor groin injury, recently threw a successful bullpen session on the game mound—an important milestone in his rehab process. Francona sounded optimistic, saying, “He came through that real well, so I think we’re all set for when we get back to Cincinnati. I think we play the Cubs and he’ll be ready to slot in there, which is really good news for us.”
That’s not just good news—it could be a game-changer.
The Reds are currently riding a four-game winning streak, the best in baseball, as they face the Pirates on the road. But all eyes are already turning toward the weekend when Cincinnati hosts the division-leading Cubs. Greene’s return would not only boost the rotation, but also inject serious momentum into a Reds team fighting to climb the NL Central standings.
Before the injury, Greene was in elite form. In 45 2/3 innings, he compiled a 4-2 record with a 2.36 ERA, 61 strikeouts, and a minuscule 0.810 WHIP. When healthy, he’s been one of the most dominant arms in the National League. A timely return now would mean Greene only missed three starts—a manageable absence given the long grind of the season.
Assuming Greene is ready to go Friday, the Reds could roll out a weekend rotation of Greene, Andrew Abbott on Saturday, and Nick Lodolo for Sunday’s finale. That trio offers as much upside as any in the division, and it’s the kind of firepower Cincinnati will need with two of their next four series coming against the Cubs.
The stakes couldn’t be much higher. With both the Cardinals and Cubs ahead in the standings, the Reds must capitalize on every opportunity to gain ground. Francona’s update on Greene couldn’t come at a better time. If the 24-year-old righty returns in form, it could shift the tone—not just of this upcoming series, but of the Reds’ season as a whole.
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