September 3, 2025
The Cincinnati Reds are preparing for rookie pitcher Chase Burns to face live hitters in batting practice on Tuesday afternoon before their matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays. While Burns won’t be activated for the game, the team hopes this step is another sign of progress in his recovery.
Burns has been working his way back from a flexor strain suffered in August. He recently completed a bullpen session during the Reds’ series against the St. Louis Cardinals. If he responds well to Tuesday’s outing, Cincinnati could look to activate him from the injured list in the near future, though a return this weekend against the New York Mets may still be a bit early.
Once healthy, Burns is expected to join the bullpen. Although he hasn’t pitched in relief since his college days at Tennessee in 2023, his skill set makes him an intriguing option. In eight starts this season, the right-hander struck out 57 batters across just over 34 innings, leaning on a powerful fastball and sharp slider — both of which could prove valuable in high-leverage relief situations.
The Reds’ bullpen has been stretched thin in recent weeks. Emilio Pagán struggled against Toronto on Monday, while Tony Santillan and Scott Barlow have carried heavy workloads. With Graham Ashcraft sidelined, adding Burns could provide a much-needed boost.
Cincinnati trails the New York Mets by four games in the National League Wild Card race. If Burns can return and make an impact, his presence could serve as a late-season weapon in the Reds’ push for the postseason.
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