Reds place Hunter Greene on IL but provide encouraging timetable for return

Hunter Greene's Thursday MRI revealed a Grade 1 right groin strain that will send the Cincinnati Reds ace to the injured list. Fans had a feeling this was coming even after the team provided a positive update on his status after Wednesday night's game.

"He'll miss even a start or two. We don't have a move tonight. We're talking through some things. With Monday off, we'll talk through it more" manager Terry Francona said.

The injury appeared to come while Greene was warming up for the fourth inning Wednesday night against the Atlanta Braves. The 25-year-old struck out six and allowed two hits over his three innings of work before the injury.

This isn't what Reds fans wanted to see, but cautiously approaching the injury is best. A Grade 1 groin strain is somewhat minor, but could obviously worsen if Greene elected to push through. "...All things considered, he's going to be ok. We've got to take care of it," Francona said before Thursday night's series finale in Atlanta.

Which Reds prospect will replace Hunter Greene in starting rotation?

Cincinnati concludes its seven-game road trip in Houston on Sunday, when Greene's replacement will likely be recalled, but who will it be? Chase Petty is the likely option, but Reds fans still have a sour taste in their mouths after his disastrous MLB debut on April 30 against the Cardinals.

Petty allowed nine runs and seven hits over 2 1/3 innings but bounced back in his next start in Triple-A. The Reds' sixth-ranked prospect and 97th overall (according to MLB.com) threw six no-hit innings and struck out eight on Tuesday night in Louisville.

Another option is Lyon Richardson, who was recently recalled from Triple-A and started four games with Cincinnati in 2023. The 25-year-old has been relegated to bullpen duties so far this season, but could provide a start or two if needed.

Regardless of the replacement, the flamethrower Greene will be missed. The righty is potentially en route to his second straight All-Star Game appearance and has dominated in 2025. His 2.36 ERA leads the staff, while his 0.81 WHIP and 61 strikeouts are top three in MLB. Don't worry, though, because it shouldn't be long before he's ready to return. Give him two weeks and that puts him on trck to face the Cubs during the series from the 23-25 of May.