Hunter Greene's rehab start offers hope after missing out at the trade deadline

Over the past two months, the Cincinnati Reds showed intentions of being buyers at the MLB trade deadline.

The Reds' boast one of the most exciting lineups in baseball, but their pitching has had its struggles in both the rotation and bullpen. According to FanGraphs, Reds pitchers are 26th in ERA, trailing the Oakland A's, Colorado Rockies, Kansas City Royals, and Washington Nationals.

After examining the market, the Reds decided to stay with what they have for the time being. Cincinnati added left-handed pitcher Sam Moll, but did not make any noteworthy upgrades at the trade deadline.

Hunter Greene's rehab start offers hope after missing out at the trade deadline.

In an interview with Bally Sports' Jim Day, Cincinnati Reds General Manager Nick Krall stated there was not a deal to be made at the deadline considering what the club would have to give up in return. The Reds are going to count on their returning starters to help this team reach the postseason.

Krall is referring to relievers Tejay Antone, Casey Legumina and Vladimir Gutierrez; all of whom are currently on rehab assignments in Arizona. Additionally, Nick Lodolo hopes to return to the rotation in late August, while Hunter Greene just finished his first rehab start.

According to Charlie Goldsmith of the Cincinnati Enquirer, Hunter Greene has an estimated return date of August 20th. Greene has been sidelined since June 17th and has been working his way back from a hip injury.

On August 1, he was sent to Arizona to pitch in the Arizona Complex League game on a rehab assignment. Greene threw two scoreless innings while allowing just one hit and striking out three batters.

The lack of additions at the trade deadline showed the Cincinnati Reds were all-in with their own talent returning rather than looking to overpay for a two-month rental. With Luke Weaver scheduled for two more starts and the recent performance of Ben Lively, the Reds should have August 20 circled on their calendars for the return of Hunter Greene.