Greene Shines: 6 Immaculate Innings in Triumphant Return with the Reds

Hunter Greene Shines in Return to Cincinnati Rotation

CINCINNATI – Hunter Greene had a successful return to the Cincinnati rotation on Wednesday night, throwing six flawless innings in the 8-0 victory over Philadelphia. The pitcher allowed three hits in his first start in the Major Leagues in more than two months. The right-hander struck out six batters and did not concede walks in the last game of the three-game series.

“Getting back to that mindset and being able to flip that switch is important. I feel like I was able to do it,” Greene commented.

Hunter Greene

Greene, 26, was placed on the 15-day injured list on June 4 due to a right groin strain. He was also out of action for two weeks in May with the same injury. The Phillies threatened in the third inning, putting runners on first and second base. However, Greene got out of the jam by striking out Kyle Schwarber. Schwarber hit a double with two outs in the sixth inning and advanced to third base on a wild pitch. But Greene struck out Bryce Harper for the final out of the inning.

“I redoubled my strength and came out victorious,” Greene affirmed.

Hunter Greene

Greene prepared for his return with four rehabilitation appearances in the minor leagues, allowing 11 runs, nine earned, and 10 hits, while striking out 24 in 13 innings. He threw 85 pitches against the Phillies, 58 of them for strikes.

“Seeing it like that, you know, it’s impressive,” said Reds slugger Miguel Andujar.

Miguel Andujar

Right-hander Sam Benschoter was optioned to Triple-A Louisville on Tuesday to make room for Greene on the roster. Led by Greene, Cincinnati won for the fourth time in five games before a crucial weekend series against Milwaukee, the Major League leader. The Reds are battling for a National League wild card spot. Greene was selected by the Reds with the second overall pick in the 2017 amateur draft. He went 9-5 with a 2.75 ERA in 26 starts last year, striking out a career-high 169 in 150 1/3 innings and making the National League All-Star team for the first time. Greene has a 5-3 record with a 2.47 ERA in 12 starts this season.