Chase Burns is turning heads with his dominant performance, sparking talk of a promotion—maybe even two.
That would place the Reds’ top prospect straight into the Major Leagues. But Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall is urging caution.
“We’re not quite there yet,” Krall said Thursday. “It all depends on his development.
He’s done a great job, but there are still things to work on.”
Currently ranked as the Reds’ No. 1 prospect and No. 11 overall by MLB Pipeline, Burns has been lights-out at Double-A Chattanooga, posting a 1.54 ERA in seven starts.
He’s walked just four while striking out 49 batters over 35 innings.
In his latest outing against Columbus (Ga.), the 22-year-old righty delivered another gem—no runs, two hits, one walk, and four strikeouts.
That followed a 10-strikeout performance over five innings against Rocket City. Burns was the second overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft out of Wake Forest.
Krall praised Burns’ progress: “He’s dominated Double-A so far. You can’t ask for more.”
Before being promoted to Chattanooga, Burns made three starts for High-A Dayton, recording a 3.09 ERA with 20 strikeouts in just under 12 innings.
The Reds have precedent for moving top arms quickly—Rhett Lowder reached the big leagues after only 22 minor league starts last year, posting a 1.17 ERA in six outings.
But unlike last season’s injury-driven urgency, Cincinnati had planned for more pitching depth in 2025—though that’s now being tested again.
Lowder has been sidelined with a forearm issue and an oblique strain, while Carson Spiers continues to rehab a shoulder injury in Arizona.
Veteran Wade Miley, also rehabbing from Tommy John surgery, has a Sunday deadline to opt out of his minor league deal if not promoted.
If Miley departs and injuries persist, Burns could quickly climb the depth chart.
While the Reds are committed to developing him patiently—he’s only two months into his professional career—his performance may force their hand.
“He just needs to keep building up his pitch count, polish some areas, and stick to his routine,” Krall said. “He’s made significant progress, and if he keeps improving, the next step will come.”
