Reds' Chase Burns Impresses in Spring Training

Pitcher's recent bullpen session has team 'very pleased' as he works to earn spot in rotation

Mar. 16, 2026 at 7:48pm

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The Cincinnati Reds are closely monitoring the progress of pitcher Chase Burns during spring training, as he looks to secure a spot in the team's starting rotation. After being lifted early from a recent spring training game due to concerns about his workload, Burns has bounced back with an impressive bullpen session that has the team 'very pleased' with how he is looking.

Why it matters

With the injury to Reds' pitcher Hunter Greene, an opportunity has opened up for Burns to potentially make the major league roster. As the Reds evaluate their pitching options, Burns' strong spring training performance could boost his chances of earning a spot in the starting rotation.

The details

Burns, a 23-year-old right-hander, is looking to build on his 2025 season where he posted a 4.57 ERA with 67 strikeouts in 41.1 innings across 13 games. The Reds have been careful with his workload in spring training, but the latest update from manager Terry Francona indicates that Burns is progressing well and the team is pleased with how he has looked in recent sessions.

  • On March 13, Burns was lifted early from a spring training game due to concerns about his workload.
  • On March 15, Burns threw a bullpen session that went 'very well' according to reports.

The players

Chase Burns

A 23-year-old right-handed pitcher in the Cincinnati Reds organization, looking to earn a spot in the team's starting rotation.

Terry Francona

The manager of the Cincinnati Reds, who has been closely monitoring Burns' progress in spring training.

Hunter Greene

A Reds pitcher who is currently dealing with an injury, which has opened up an opportunity for Burns to potentially make the major league roster.

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What they’re saying

“Chase Burns threw a bullpen yesterday that went very well. They're very pleased with how he looks right now.”

— Charlie Goldsmith (X (formerly Twitter)

“This kid's still working through, like, some of his routines and stuff. He had a big five days with the trainers and stuff, working on the flexibility and the mobility. We just want to make sure that − I mean, he's good to go. Might cost him an inning, but he's OK.”

— Terry Francona, Manager, Cincinnati Reds (The Cincinnati Enquirer)

What’s next

The Reds will continue to monitor Burns' progress in spring training as they finalize their starting rotation for the 2026 season. If he continues to impress, Burns could earn a spot on the major league roster, potentially filling the void left by Hunter Greene's injury.

The takeaway

Chase Burns' strong spring training performance has caught the attention of the Reds organization, who are pleased with his progress as he looks to secure a spot in the team's starting rotation. This opportunity could be a significant step forward in Burns' career, as he aims to build on his previous minor league experience and make an impact at the major league level.