The Cincinnati Reds may trail the NL Central-leading Chicago Cubs by seven games, but their playoff hopes remain very much alive. They’re currently just 1.5 games back of the final NL Wild Card spot. As manager Terry Francona’s club pushes toward the All-Star break, the team has received some promising injury news regarding two key players. Reds beat reporter Charlie Goldsmith shared updates Saturday on X (formerly Twitter) regarding pitcher Hunter Greene and outfielder Jake Fraley.
“Hunter Greene is set to start a rehab assignment in Triple-A on Tuesday,” Goldsmith reported. “Jake Fraley is also doing really well, taking at-bats this weekend. They’ll check in with him when they’re back home on Monday about the next step.”
If both Greene and Fraley continue making steady progress, they could return to the Reds’ lineup by the All-Star break. That would be a significant boost for a team battling for a postseason spot, giving Francona’s young squad added depth and momentum in the second half of the season.
Getting Hunter Greene, Jake Fraley back from IL would boost Reds roster
Hunter Greene has firmly established himself as the ace of the Reds’ pitching staff—a role the organization envisioned for him when they selected him second overall in the 2017 MLB Draft. After earning his first All-Star selection last season, Greene has taken another step forward this year under manager Terry Francona’s coaching staff. If he returns to the rotation shortly after the All-Star break, it could significantly boost Cincinnati’s chances of making a postseason push.
Meanwhile, Jake Fraley has emerged as a vital piece of the Reds’ outfield rotation, showcasing versatility by capably handling all three outfield spots. He recently received a cortisone injection to treat his shoulder sprain, which should accelerate his recovery. Fraley’s return would give Cincinnati added depth, strengthening the bench for the demands of a playoff race. As the Reds aim for October baseball, having both Greene and Fraley healthy and contributing will be a major advantage.
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