Reds Ace Hunter Greene to Undergo Elbow Surgery, Out Until July

The 26-year-old All-Star pitcher will miss the start of the 2026 season due to bone chip removal procedure.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Cincinnati Reds have received unfortunate news about their star pitcher Hunter Greene, who will undergo surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow and is expected to miss the first half of the 2026 MLB season. Greene, who signed a six-year, $53 million extension with the team, is now slated to make his season debut in July after being placed on the 60-day injured list.

Why it matters

Greene's injury is a significant setback for the Reds, who were counting on the 26-year-old right-hander to anchor their starting rotation this season. His absence will force the team to rely more heavily on younger pitchers like Andrew Abbott, Nick Lodolo, and Brady Singer, potentially impacting their playoff hopes in the competitive National League Central division.

The details

Reds officials revealed that Greene had been dealing with bone spurs in his elbow and recently underwent multiple imaging tests. While a surgery to remove the bone chips is typically seen as a last resort, doctors determined it was necessary after Greene continued to experience discomfort. The procedure is expected to sideline Greene for approximately 3-4 months, allowing him to potentially return to the mound in July.

  • Greene will undergo the elbow surgery this week.
  • The Reds expect Greene to make his season debut in July.

The players

Hunter Greene

A 26-year-old right-handed starting pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, who signed a six-year, $53 million contract extension with the team. Greene was an All-Star in 2025 after posting a 2.76 ERA with 132 strikeouts in 107.2 innings.

Terry Francona

The manager of the Cincinnati Reds, who will have to adjust his starting rotation plans due to Greene's injury.

Chase Burns

A Reds pitcher who is expected to compete for a spot in the starting rotation with Greene out.

Rhett Lowder

A Reds pitcher who is expected to compete for a spot in the starting rotation with Greene out.

Chase Petty

A Reds pitcher who was optioned this week as the team adjusts its pitching staff.

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What they’re saying

“Greene said he dealt with bone spurs in the past and recently received a clean MRI on his ulnar collateral ligament. Doctors didn't recommend surgery, even when Greene expressed discomfort, and a procedure typically is seen as a last resort.”

— Gordon Wittenmyer, Cincinnati Enquirer reporter (Cincinnati Enquirer)

What’s next

The Reds will have to determine their starting rotation plans in Greene's absence, with Chase Burns and Rhett Lowder expected to compete for a spot. Greene will hope that his surgery is successful and he can return to the mound in July to contribute to the Reds' playoff push.

The takeaway

Greene's injury is a significant blow to the Reds, who were counting on the young right-hander to anchor their starting rotation this season. His absence will force the team to rely more heavily on their depth, testing their ability to weather the loss of an All-Star-caliber pitcher. The Reds will need strong performances from their other starters to remain competitive in the NL Central while Greene recovers.