The Cincinnati Reds have moved the timetable for Hunter Greene’s return, hoping he can be on the mound before the All‑Star break in July. Greene, who opened 2023 and 2025 for the club, had bone chips removed on March 11 and was slated for 14‑16 weeks of recovery. Francona said Greene will throw batting practice and may soon start a rehab assignment to rebuild arm strength.

Greene finished 2025 with a 7‑4 record and a 2.76 ERA over 19 starts and 107⅔ innings, leading the majors with an average 99.5 mph four‑seam fastball among those throwing at least 1,250 pitches. He also logged 296 pitches over 100 mph, second only to Mason Miller’s 422. His 169 strikeouts in 150⅓ innings earned him an NL All‑Star nod in 2024.

Francona also noted shortstop Elly De La Cruz will undergo an MRI on June 12, three days earlier than the club’s original 2‑to‑4‑week return estimate. The injury timeline shifts the Reds’ lineup planning and may force a mid‑season roster tweak. With Greene potentially back, the club aims to cement a playoff push after its first postseason appearance since 2020.