Hunter Greene to Undergo Surgery for Elbow Injury
Hunter Greene, the Cincinnati Reds’ promising pitcher, is scheduled to undergo surgery on March 11, 2026, to remove bone chips from his right elbow. This procedure comes after Greene experienced persistent elbow discomfort that has plagued him since late last season.
Greene’s surgery is expected to sideline him for at least four months, which means he could return around the MLB All-Star break in July. The Reds are now faced with the challenge of adjusting their pitching rotation in his absence, as Greene was a key player for the team last season.
In the previous season, Greene posted an impressive 2.76 ERA and recorded a 7-4 win-loss record. However, he was limited to a career-low 19 starts and pitched only 107⅔ innings, a significant reduction compared to his potential. His average four-seam fastball velocity was a remarkable 99.5 mph, leading the major leagues and showcasing his talent on the mound.
Greene’s elbow issues have been a concern for the Reds, as he had multiple injured-list stints in 2025. The decision to proceed with surgery comes after he received an injection for elbow discomfort in late October 2025. Reds general manager Nick Krall expressed relief regarding the nature of Greene’s injury, stating, “It’s definitely good news compared to what it could have been,” and added, “The (UCL) ligament looked intact and good. That’s a positive.”
Manager Terry Francona acknowledged the impact of Greene’s absence, saying, “We will miss him. There is no getting around that.” The team will need to rely on other pitchers to step up during his recovery period.
As the Reds prepare for the upcoming season, they will be closely monitoring Greene’s rehabilitation process. His return will be crucial for the team’s aspirations, especially given his performance last season and his potential to contribute significantly when healthy.
While the surgery is a setback for Greene and the Reds, the hope is that this procedure will address the underlying issues and allow him to return to form. Fans and teammates alike are eager for his recovery and look forward to seeing him back on the mound later this summer.
