The Cincinnati Reds are expected to promote top pitching prospect Chase Burns for a start in their upcoming series against the New York Yankees.
Burns, a 22-year-old righty, has climbed the minor league ladder quickly since being drafted second overall from Wake Forest last year. He’s posted a 7-3 record with an impressive 1.77 ERA across 13 starts at three different minor league levels this season, including two appearances for Triple-A Louisville.
“It’s hard to find a reason not to give him the opportunity,” Reds manager Terry Francona said on Sunday. “We’ve challenged him with a lot, and he’s handled it all well.”
With the rotation short-staffed due to injuries to Hunter Greene and Wade Miley, Cincinnati is turning to Burns to step in. Nick Lodolo is set to open the series on Monday, with the 6-foot-3 Burns likely making his MLB debut on Tuesday.
Francona noted the excitement surrounding the move, praising the front office for helping the team remain competitive. The Reds, entering Sunday at 39-38 and sitting fourth in the NL Central, also made several roster adjustments: calling up Yosver Zulueta, reinstating Jeimer Candelario from injury, optioning Chase Petty, and designating Garrett Hampson for assignment. The Cardinals also made moves, calling up Gordon Graceffo and sending Andre Granillo back to Triple-A.
