Hunter Greene to have season-ending elbow surgery
Cincinnati Reds right-hander Hunter Greene will undergo season-ending elbow surgery for a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. Greene, 27, was placed on the injured list after experiencing soreness during a side session on Tuesday. Following an MRI and a consultation with specialist Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles, the decision for surgery was made.
Reds president of business operations Nick Krall stated that the procedure will address the failing ligament. He did not speculate on Greene's status for the 2027 season. Greene has had a challenging season, making only five starts and previously beginning the season on the 60-day injured list due to surgery in March to remove bone chips from his elbow.
Manager Terry Francona noted that Greene was working through discomfort from his recovery but ultimately agreed to seek medical attention. Greene has not made more than 26 starts in a season since his debut in 2022, and he went 2-2 with a 6.83 ERA in five starts after returning to play on July 4. Greene signed a 6-year, $53 million contract extension in April 2023, which includes a $21 million club option for 2029.
Despite trade interest in Greene this summer, the Reds opted to keep him, pairing him with All-Star right-hander Chase Burns at the top of their rotation. Greene's injury history includes multiple stints on the injured list due to various issues, including a right groin injury and elbow soreness.