Reds Rotation Watch: Burns' Range-of-Motion Setback & Spring Training Outlook

Young right-hander Chase Burns faces uncertain future as Reds balance immediate needs and long-term pitcher development

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:42am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's throwing motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of muted earth tones conveying the intricate physical demands of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a pitcher's throwing motion highlights the complex physical demands of the sport and the delicate balance between performance and injury prevention.Cincinnati Today

The Cincinnati Reds are facing a delicate situation with their pitching staff this spring, centered around young right-hander Chase Burns. Burns, who was expected to compete for a rotation spot, has experienced a 'limited range of motion' in his throwing arm, prompting the team to drastically cut his spring training workload. This setback comes as the Reds are already dealing with the absence of ace Hunter Greene due to elbow surgery. The competition for the fifth starter spot has now become even more intriguing, with Burns facing off against Rhett Lowder and Brandon Williamson, both of whom have their own injury histories.

Why it matters

The Reds' handling of this situation will offer a glimpse into their philosophy on managing pitching talent in an era increasingly defined by arm injuries. The decisions made regarding Burns, Lowder, and Williamson will not only shape the team's immediate season but also have long-term implications for the development and durability of their young pitching staff.

The details

Burns, who was pegged as a likely candidate for a rotation spot, had his spring training progression intentionally curtailed after experiencing a 'limited range of motion' in his throwing arm. Manager Terry Francona has decided to drastically cut Burns' pitch count from 68 to just 24 in his latest outing, a move that suggests a commitment to long-term development over immediate spring glory. The absence of ace Hunter Greene due to elbow surgery has already created a void, and Burns was seen as a strong contender to fill it. Now, with this arm issue, the competition for that fifth starter spot between Burns, Lowder, and Williamson has become even more intriguing.

  • Burns experienced the 'limited range of motion' issue in his throwing arm during spring training.
  • Francona cut Burns' pitch count from 68 to 24 in his latest outing.

The players

Chase Burns

A young right-handed pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who was expected to compete for a rotation spot but is now facing uncertainty due to a 'limited range of motion' issue in his throwing arm.

Terry Francona

The manager of the Cincinnati Reds who has decided to drastically cut Burns' spring training workload as a precautionary measure.

Hunter Greene

The ace of the Cincinnati Reds pitching staff who is currently sidelined due to elbow surgery, creating an opening in the rotation.

Rhett Lowder

A highly-touted Reds prospect who is also competing for the fifth starter spot, despite his own history of arm injuries.

Brandon Williamson

A Reds pitcher who is returning from a significant arm injury that cost him all of last season following UCL reconstruction, and is also in the running for the fifth starter role.

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What they’re saying

“We must nip this in the bud and make sure Chase is fully healthy before we push him too hard.”

— Terry Francona, Manager, Cincinnati Reds

What’s next

The Reds' medical staff will develop a specific routine for Burns to prevent future range of motion issues, and the team will closely monitor the progress of Burns, Lowder, and Williamson as they compete for the fifth starter spot.

The takeaway

The Reds' handling of this pitching staff situation, particularly with the young arms of Burns, Lowder, and Williamson, will demonstrate the team's philosophy on balancing immediate needs with long-term pitcher development and durability. A conservative approach focused on building strength and preventing future injuries may be the best path forward, even if it means a slightly slower start for these promising pitchers.