The Cincinnati Reds made waves on Tuesday afternoon with a flurry of high-impact roster decisions that could significantly reshape their immediate future — and perhaps even shift the momentum of their season.
At the center of the shakeup is Chase Burns, one of the most electric young arms in the Reds’ system, who has officially been called up to the major leagues. The 21-year-old right-hander, known for his explosive fastball and sharp breaking pitches, is set to make his long-awaited MLB debut against the New York Yankees at Great American Ball Park, a baptism by fire that fans are already buzzing about. Burns’ promotion was expected after rumors swirled over the weekend, but now it’s official — and the timing couldn’t be more thrilling.
With the Reds already having an open spot on their 40-man roster, no corresponding move was needed to accommodate Burns there. However, to make room on the 26-man active roster, the club optioned right-handed reliever Yosver Zulueta to Triple-A Louisville. Zulueta, while showing flashes of promise, has struggled with consistency, and the Reds appear to be prioritizing fresh energy and potential over volatility in the bullpen.
But the day’s drama didn’t stop there.
In what could be a pivotal step toward restoring one of their most dangerous offensive weapons, the Reds announced that Austin Hays — sidelined for nearly a month — is beginning a rehab assignment with the Double-A Chattanooga Lookouts. Hays has been out of action since May 28, when a foul ball off his foot forced him to exit a game against the Royals and land on the injured list for the third time this season.
Despite the time missed, Hays remains one of the Reds’ most productive hitters. In just 31 games, he has put together a stellar .303/.346/.555 slash line, driving in 25 runs, scoring 23 times, and racking up 15 extra-base hits. The problem hasn’t been performance — it’s been availability. Hays has already missed 48 games in 2025, and Cincinnati is hoping his return comes sooner rather than later.
While Hays won’t be back in time to face the Yankees, there’s growing optimism that he could return in time for the crucial three-game weekend series against the San Diego Padres — a matchup that could have playoff implications.
The Bigger Picture
These three moves signal something bigger brewing in Cincinnati: the Reds are no longer waiting for luck or health to turn their season around. They’re taking control — investing in talent, making tough calls, and setting the stage for a potential second-half surge.
Fans should buckle up. With Chase Burns arriving, Yosver Zulueta resetting, and Austin Hays ramping back up, the Reds are positioning themselves not just to compete — but to make noise.
