Hunter Greene's Road to Recovery: A Look Inside the Reds Pitcher's Comeback
In Goodyear, Arizona, Hunter Greene has rejoined the Cincinnati Reds with a renewed sense of optimism following his recent elbow surgery. After undergoing a procedure on March 11 in Los Angeles to remove bone chips, Greene is back at the Reds Player Development Complex, eager to accelerate his recovery.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the surgeon behind the operation, has set a recovery timeline of 14-16 weeks, with Greene unable to throw for the first six.
However, Greene's determination to return ahead of schedule is evident. "I don't have a crystal ball, but I'm committed to giving my best," Greene shared.
His enthusiasm to get back on the field is palpable, though he remains cautious not to rush the healing process.
This marks Greene's first media appearance since leaving Reds camp on March 4 to seek medical advice from Dr. ElAttrache and Dr.
Timothy Kremchek. Reflecting on his injury journey, Greene recounted pitching through discomfort at the end of the 2025 season and opting for an injection during the offseason in hopes of avoiding surgery.
"Surgery is never the first option," Greene explained. "The protocol involved rest and injections, which I pursued.
Unfortunately, it didn't work out for me." Despite the setback, Greene's ulnar collateral ligament remains intact, a positive sign for his recovery.
Greene's decision to keep his struggles under wraps earlier in the year was a strategic one. "I was hoping to push through the pain," he admitted. "Spring training is tough on the body, and I thought I could manage it."
Reds manager Terry Francona welcomed Greene back with a lighthearted ribbing, encouraging him to hurry up and return to action. Francona and the team will soon decide if Greene will continue his rehab in Goodyear after the Reds break camp on March 22.
In Greene's absence, Andrew Abbott will take the mound as the Opening Day starter, with Nick Lodolo and Brady Singer following in the rotation. The Reds plan to utilize Rhett Lowder, Chase Burns, and Brandon Williamson to fill in early-season pitching gaps, as announced by Francona.
Greene's journey through discomfort is a testament to the physical demands placed on pitchers. "I've been dealing with this for a while," Greene said. "Feeling a difference now is encouraging, even though there's still some discomfort and swelling."
As Greene embarks on this recovery path, fans and teammates alike are eager to see him back on the mound, bringing his electric energy and talent back to the Reds' lineup.