Reds Pitching Prospect Jose Franco Impresses in Spring Training

25-year-old right-hander could be called up to fill rotation spot if injuries strike Cincinnati's staff

Mar. 15, 2026 at 8:39pm

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With Cincinnati Reds ace Hunter Greene expected to miss around half the season due to an elbow injury, the team's pitching depth will be tested. Prospect Jose Franco has been turning heads in spring training, impressing with his maturity, aggression in the strike zone, and ability to rack up strikeouts. While not the first option, Franco could find himself in the big leagues sooner than expected if injuries continue to plague the Reds' rotation.

Why it matters

The Reds are already dealing with a significant injury to their top starter in Greene, and their rotation depth will be crucial early in the season. Franco's strong spring performance could earn him a call-up to the majors if other young starters like Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder struggle, providing the team with important pitching depth.

The details

Through 4 2/3 innings in spring training, the 25-year-old Franco has surrendered five hits, two runs, a walk, and struck out eight batters. Reds catcher Jose Trevino has praised Franco's maturity and ability to attack the strike zone. Last season in the minors, Franco posted a 3.11 ERA with 118 strikeouts over 110 innings, though his walk rate was a bit high at 4.5 per nine innings. The Reds will be hoping Franco can build on his strong spring and provide quality innings if needed at the big-league level.

  • Hunter Greene is expected to miss around half the 2026 season after undergoing elbow surgery.
  • The Reds' 2026 season begins in late March.

The players

Jose Franco

A 25-year-old right-handed pitching prospect in the Cincinnati Reds organization who has impressed in spring training with his maturity, strike-zone aggression, and ability to miss bats.

Jose Trevino

The starting catcher for the Cincinnati Reds who has praised Franco's performance and potential.

Hunter Greene

The Reds' ace starting pitcher who is expected to miss around half the 2026 season after undergoing elbow surgery.

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What they’re saying

“He has been very impressive. Really good. His maturity, his aggression in the zone. Having a great idea of how he's trying to throw. He's very mature.”

— Jose Trevino, Reds Catcher

What’s next

If other young Reds starters like Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder struggle early in the season, Franco could be called up from the minors to provide rotation depth while Hunter Greene recovers from his injury.

The takeaway

The Reds' pitching depth will be tested in the first half of the 2026 season with the loss of ace Hunter Greene. However, the strong spring performance of prospect Jose Franco has the organization excited about his potential to step up and contribute at the major league level if needed.