Cincinnati Reds star pitcher Hunter Greene will undergo surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow, a procedure expected to keep him out of action until around July. The operation is scheduled after Greene experienced renewed discomfort during spring training, forcing the Reds to adjust their plans for the 2026 MLB season.
Greene was originally expected to start Opening Day for Cincinnati and lead what looked like one of the most promising pitching rotations in the National League. However, the injury now changes the team’s early-season outlook and opens opportunities for other pitchers in the Reds’ rotation.
Hunter Greene Set for Elbow Surgery
The Reds confirmed that Greene will undergo an arthroscopic procedure to remove bone chips from his right elbow. The issue has been developing for some time, as Greene had previously dealt with bone spurs in the same elbow.
Doctors had not recommended surgery earlier, but after Greene began experiencing discomfort again while ramping up his workload during spring training, the decision was made to proceed with the procedure.
Before the surgery decision, Greene underwent multiple imaging tests and consulted specialists to evaluate the condition of his elbow. His ulnar collateral ligament was reported to be healthy, which means the surgery focuses only on removing loose bone fragments causing irritation.
Hunter Greene Injury Update
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Hunter Greene |
| Team | Cincinnati Reds |
| Injury | Bone chips in right elbow |
| Procedure | Arthroscopic surgery |
| Expected Return | Around July 2026 |
| Position | Starting Pitcher |
| Age | 26 |
Discomfort Dates Back to Last Season
Greene first experienced elbow discomfort late last season. At that time, doctors recommended an injection to reduce the inflammation and help him finish the year without surgery.
The treatment allowed him to complete the season and go through the offseason normally. However, when he began increasing his throwing intensity during spring training, the pain returned.
Because the symptoms did not improve, medical experts advised surgery to remove the bone fragments. Surgery is typically considered a last option, especially for pitchers who are still able to perform through minor elbow issues.
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Reds Rotation Takes a Major Hit
Losing Greene is a significant setback for the Reds’ pitching staff. The 26-year-old right-hander was expected to lead the rotation and start Opening Day for Cincinnati before the injury occurred.
Without Greene, the Reds will rely more heavily on other starters early in the season.
Projected Reds Rotation (2026 Season)
| Pitcher | Role |
|---|---|
| Andrew Abbott | Opening Day Starter |
| Nick Lodolo | Starting Rotation |
| Brady Singer | Starting Rotation |
| Chase Burns | Rotation Candidate |
| Rhett Lowder | Rotation Candidate |
Left-hander Brandon Williamson also remains in camp as he works his way back after missing the 2025 season due to injury, giving the Reds another possible option.
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Greene’s Performance in Recent Seasons
Greene has quickly become one of the most exciting pitchers in Major League Baseball thanks to his elite velocity and strikeout ability.
Last season he posted a strong performance despite limited starts.
Hunter Greene – Recent MLB Performance
| Season | Record | ERA | Starts | Innings Pitched |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 7–4 | 2.76 | 19 | 107⅔ |
| 2024 | 9–5 | 2.75 | 26 | 150⅓ |
Greene’s fastball remains one of the most powerful weapons in the league. His average four-seam fastball velocity reached 99.5 mph, the highest among major league pitchers who threw at least 1,250 pitches. He also delivered 296 pitches of 100 mph or faster, placing him among the hardest throwers in baseball.
Andrew Abbott Named Opening Day Starter
With Greene sidelined, the Reds have chosen left-hander Andrew Abbott as their Opening Day starter against the Boston Red Sox on March 26.
The start will be the first Opening Day assignment of Abbott’s career. The 26-year-old earned his first All-Star selection last season and is now expected to lead Cincinnati’s rotation until Greene returns.
Greene entering surgery is a tough blow for the Reds, especially with the team hoping to build momentum after reaching the playoffs last season. His power pitching and ability to dominate hitters made him the natural leader of the rotation.
The Reds will now need strong performances from Abbott, Lodolo and the rest of the staff while waiting for Greene’s return later in the summer.
If Greene successfully recovers and returns around July, Cincinnati could still regain a major boost for the second half of the season.
FAQs
Why is Hunter Greene having surgery?
He will undergo surgery to remove bone chips from his right elbow after experiencing discomfort during spring training.
When will Hunter Greene return?
The Reds expect Greene to return sometime around July 2026 after completing his recovery.
Who will start Opening Day for the Reds?
Left-hander Andrew Abbott has been named the Reds’ Opening Day starter.
How old is Hunter Greene?
Hunter Greene is 26 years old and entering his fifth MLB season.
