The 2025 version of the Cincinnati Reds has plenty of issues — just like many Reds teams before them. With just under two months left in the season, the team finds itself on the outside looking in: four games back of the final Wild Card spot. Be sure to subscribe to our Newsletter using the popup form or form below!
They’re expected to get RHP ace Hunter Greene back in the next couple of weeks, potentially as early as this week. On Sunday, August 3rd, Greene tossed 3.1 IP with 3 H, 2 R, 0 ER, 7 K, and 1 BB for AAA Louisville — a strong outing for the flamethrower.
With Greene’s return, the Reds rotation could become crowded. After acquiring Zack Littell at the deadline, Cincinnati will have five solid starters:
- Hunter Greene
- Nick Lodolo
- Andrew Abbott
- Zack Littell
- Brady Singer
That leaves Chase Burns on the outside looking in.
But I think there’s a clear place for him:
Make Chase Burns the Closer.
Yes, Emilio Pagán has been serviceable. He’s fine for a .500 team — which is kind of what the Reds are. But if you’re serious about chasing the postseason, this bullpen needs help. And Chase Burns offers real upside.
He brings triple-digit velocity, a devastating slider, and most importantly, dominance in the first inning. Since being called up, Burns has posted a staggering 41.9% strikeout rate in the first inning — and that’s including a shaky outing against Boston when he was tipping pitches. Take that start out, and the number jumps even higher.
That’s what you want out of your Closer – swing and miss “stuff”. Not so much a contact pitcher which is what Emilio Pagán is, even more so once he’s fatigued.
Plus, the Reds are approaching a situation where Burns will soon hit his innings cap. Why not transition him into a high-leverage role that reduces his innings load and simultaneously strengthens an area that can be improved?
I get the hesitation: “You don’t want your No. 2 pick becoming a closer.” But the Reds didn’t expect Chase Burns to be up this quickly. This isn’t about shelving his long-term potential — it’s about maximizing his value right now.
Put him in the fire. Let him close games in August and September. Get him reps under pressure. It will only make him better. You can always stretch him back out as a starter next season — he’s only 22.
This move makes too much sense:
- You have five proven starters.
- You cut down Burns’ innings.
- You give the Reds an improved chance to fight down the stretch.
A team with this many issues can’t solve everything. But this?
This one you can solve.
Move Burns to the back end of the bullpen — and give your ball club a jolt it desperately needs.
nice debut piece brother! agreed, Chase Burns likely gets moved to an RP role