The Cincinnati Reds placed star pitcher Hunter Greene on the 15-day injured list Wednesday due to a right groin strain and signed veteran left-hander to a one-year deal.
He, 38, underwent Tommy John surgery on his left elbow in May 2024 and had previously signed a minor league deal with the Reds on Feb. 4 that included a June 1 opt-out clause if he hadn’t reached the majors by then.
He exercised that clause on Sunday but stayed in Cincinnati while exploring other options and keeping in contact with the Reds.
“I got to spend some time with my family, go to Little League games, just enjoy being a dad,” Miley said. “I’m thankful to the Reds for how they handled everything. We stayed in touch. I feel good, and I’m excited to be back and ready to get to work.”
Miley joins Nick Lodolo and Andrew Abbott as the third lefty in the Reds’ rotation. He previously pitched for Cincinnati in 2020–21, making 34 appearances (32 starts) with a 12-10 record and a 3.55 ERA. He also threw the 17th no-hitter in Reds history on May 7, 2021, against Cleveland.
A 14-year MLB veteran, Miley has earned 108 career wins with eight teams. Manager Terry Francona praised Miley’s experience and leadership, noting his value to the young rotation.
“He and Nick Krall had several good conversations,” Francona said. “We were originally going to use him in the bullpen, knowing we’d need him eventually. That time just came sooner.”
Miley will be available out of the bullpen for Wednesday’s series finale against the Brewers. If he doesn’t pitch, he’s expected to start the series opener in Cleveland and then settle into the rotation.
“He was in full uniform early this morning,” Francona said. “We’ve been waiting for him. He’s a bright spot — competitive, reliable, and brings a lot to the table.”
As for Greene, it’s another frustrating development. He had returned for three starts following a previous IL stint caused by a groin strain suffered May 7 in Atlanta.
In Tuesday’s 4-2 victory over Milwaukee, Greene threw 85 pitches across five innings before exiting with renewed groin discomfort. Although an MRI was scheduled for Wednesday, Francona said the team didn’t need to wait for the results.
“After speaking with him and the trainers, the decision was clear even before the MRI,” Francona said. “We need to focus on getting him fully healthy.”
Greene, who was an All-Star last season, has a 4-3 record with a 2.72 ERA in 11 starts this year.
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