Cincinnati Reds set to promote Hunter Greene to Triple-A

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Hunter Greene (79) returns tot he dugout after the third out of the top of the first inning of the MLB Cactus League Spring Training game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Los Angeles Angels at Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear, Ariz., on Tuesday, March 2, 2021.Los Angeles Angels At Cincinnati Reds
Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Hunter Greene (79) returns tot he dugout after the third out of the top of the first inning of the MLB Cactus League Spring Training game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Los Angeles Angels at Goodyear Ballpark in Goodyear, Ariz., on Tuesday, March 2, 2021.Los Angeles Angels At Cincinnati Reds

After a two year wait, the Cincinnati Reds are finally seeing what they have in Hunter Greene. The one time consensus top 100 prospect had seen his star lose its luster as injuries had sidelined him since the 2018 season. Despite those two years off, the Reds were aggressive with Greene, slotting him in Double-A to begin the season.

That time in Chattanooga lasted for all of 41 innings. According to reports, Greene is taking the next step towards the majors and will be promoted to Triple-A.

Hunter Greene one step closer to joining Cincinnati Reds

It was clear that Greene had nothing left to prove at Double-A. He had posted a 1.98 ERA and a 1.000 WHiP in those 41 innings, striking out 60 batters while issuing 14 walks. His impressive velocity was back, as he was routinely sitting in triple digits with his fastball. Greene was clearly overmatching his opposition.

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It is a bit of a surprise that the Reds are sending him to Triple-A. Most top prospects have skipped that level recently, going straight from Double-A to the majors. While Triple-A has more players that have major league experience under their belt, that level has become more of a depth area, with players to be called up as needed.

But there is still plenty of value to having prospects perform there. They get to face those major league veterans and have them as teammates. It is a chance to learn how these players prepare for games, to learn different tips and to get ready for that hoped-for call to the majors.

It will certainly be a test for Greene. Should he continue to dominate, he may not spend much time in Louisville, having a similar stay in Triple-A. As the Reds are also hovering around .500 and in danger of falling out of the NL Central race, a potential ‘For Sale’ sign on the season could expedite that process as well.

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Hunter Greene is one step closer to making his debut for the Cincinnati Reds. According to reports, he is set to be promoted to Triple-A.