The Cincinnati Reds endured a tough weekend as their playoff hopes took a significant hit with back-to-back losses against the Kansas City Royals. The Reds were defeated 7-1 on Friday night and faced an even more crushing 13-1 loss on Saturday. These setbacks have left them five games out of a playoff spot, adding to their struggles as the season progresses.
Hunter Greene's Injury Setback
Adding to the Reds' challenges, rising star pitcher Hunter Greene has been placed on the injured list due to soreness in his right elbow. This development is particularly concerning given Greene's history; he underwent Tommy John surgery a few years ago. Despite this, Reds manager David Bell remains optimistic, stating, "MRI looked good."
Greene's season had been shaping up impressively before his injury. The 24-year-old had made 24 starts, achieving a commendable 9-4 record with a 2.83 ERA. His performance had positioned him as one of the league's premier pitchers, boasting a WHIP of 1.02 and 162 strikeouts over 143 1/3 innings. These numbers placed him third in the league in ERA, fifth in WHIP, and fourth in strikeouts, underscoring his critical role in the team's rotation.
Impact on the Reds' Season
Greene's absence comes at a particularly inopportune time for the Reds. Before his injury, he was leading the league in Wins Above Replacement (WAR) according to Baseball Reference, and was ranked fifth in WAR by FanGraphs. His departure from the mound leaves a significant void for the team, which is grappling to stay within reach of a playoff berth.
The extent of Greene's injury and his timeline for return remain uncertain, but the Reds will undoubtedly feel his absence. With a potent arm like Greene's sidelined, the team's pitching staff faces increased pressure to perform, a considerable challenge given the recent results against the Royals.
League's Broader Pitching Landscape
While Greene's performance had him among the top pitchers in the league, the Cy Young race continues with Chris Sale considered the frontrunner. Sale's dominance this season has been well-documented, and with Greene out, Sale's path to the award seems less obstructed.
The Reds must now regroup and find a way to compensate for the loss of their star pitcher. The team’s struggle for consistency has been evident, and the recent losses highlight the urgency of resolving their issues both on the mound and at the plate. The hope for the Reds is that Greene's injury is not severe and that he can return to help them make a late push for the playoffs.
As the season winds down, the Reds will need to rally around the talent they have and find a way to close the gap in the standings. The pressure is mounting, and the team's resilience will be tested in the coming weeks. The Reds' fans, ever faithful, will be watching closely, hoping that their team can defy the odds and turn the tide in their favor.