Hunter Greene's journey back to the mound is one every Cincinnati Reds fan is watching closely. After undergoing surgery to remove bone spurs from his right elbow on March 11, Greene has returned to the Reds Player Development Complex in Goodyear, Arizona.
The procedure, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, means Greene will be sidelined from throwing for six weeks as he embarks on a 14-16 week recovery journey.
Greene's decision not to have the surgery during the offseason raises questions, but he addressed this, explaining that surgery wasn't the first option. "There's protocol," Greene noted, highlighting the choice between an injection or rest.
He opted for both, hoping to manage the injury without going under the knife. Unfortunately, the injection didn't provide the relief he needed.
Despite the setback, Greene remains optimistic. He plans to stay in shape during the non-throwing period and is eager to start his progression back to pitching.
If all goes well, a mid-July return could be on the cards. "I don't have a crystal ball," Greene said, "but I'm going to continue to put my best foot forward."
Greene's discomfort began during the last stretch of the 2025 season, though his velocity remained unaffected, and his ulnar collateral ligament is intact. Reflecting on his lone Cactus League start on Feb.
28, Greene admitted he was hesitant to publicly disclose the pain he was experiencing. "I was just hoping that...
I can get through it," he shared, acknowledging the common aches players endure during spring training.
Reds manager Terry Francona, with his characteristic humor, greeted Greene with a playful jab, urging him to hurry back. The team is yet to decide if Greene will continue his rehab at the complex after the Reds break camp on March 22.
In Greene's absence, Andrew Abbott will take the mound as the Reds' Opening Day starter, followed by Nick Lodolo and Brady Singer. The team will rely on a combination of Rhett Lowder, Chase Burns, and Brandon Williamson to fill the early-season pitching needs-a temporary solution, as Francona described it.
Greene's determination shines through as he reflects on the chronic nature of his bone spurs and the relief he feels post-surgery. "It’s nice to feel a difference," he said, despite the current discomfort and swelling. With his eyes set on recovery, Reds fans are undoubtedly rooting for Greene's successful return to the field.