Just as Reds fans began settling into the idea that Hunter Greene might be sidelined for a while longer, a surprising twist has emerged — and it’s the kind of development that could send a ripple through the entire National League Wild Card picture.
According to a detailed update from ESPN, the Cincinnati Reds have officially scheduled Greene for a Triple-A rehab assignment next week, signaling that the flamethrowing right-hander is far closer to returning than previously expected.
The report highlights how Greene, who has been on the injured list since June 4 with a right groin strain, has responded well to bullpen work and is entering the final phase of his recovery.
For a team sitting just a couple of games outside the final NL Wild Card spot, this isn’t just an injury update — it’s a strategic pivot point.
Greene, who was drafted second overall by Cincinnati in 2017 and earned his first All-Star nod last season, has become the backbone of the Reds’ pitching staff. His absence has been deeply felt over the last month, especially with the team’s rotation juggling inconsistencies and relying on younger arms to hold the line.
But with this quiet move toward a rehab start at Triple-A Louisville, the Reds are signaling something important: they believe Hunter Greene is almost ready to lead this team again.
And this time, it’s not just about returning — it’s about returning stronger.
Sources close to the organization suggest Greene has made subtle adjustments during his time away, focusing on pitch command and lower-body stability to protect against further strain. If those tweaks translate on the mound, fans could see an even more refined version of the electric starter who regularly touches triple digits on the radar gun.
“Getting Hunter back is like acquiring a frontline starter at the trade deadline,” one scout told ESPN. “If he’s sharp, it changes everything for Cincinnati.”
Meanwhile, manager Terry Francona hasn’t rushed anything. The veteran skipper and his staff have carefully managed Greene’s timeline, opting for patience and precision over short-term fixes. That philosophy could pay off in a big way if Greene returns after the All-Star break and anchors a second-half surge.
Add in the expected return of Jake Fraley, another key contributor on the IL, and the Reds are quietly rearming at just the right time.
So while fans may have thought they knew the story with Hunter Greene, ESPN’s latest update makes one thing clear: the real story might just be beginning — and it could rewrite the script for Cincinnati’s season.
