The Cincinnati Reds have been beseiged at Helm’s Deep for four days running. They sit at just 40-47 on the season, mired in last place in the National League Central and 7 full games back of the final NL Wild Card spot. That’s closer to the team in last place in the NL Wild Card standings (the Colorado Rockies at 12 games back) than they are to the St. Louis Cardinals, who occupy that final playoff position.
Today, though, is dawn on the fifth day. At least, that’s what the team must hope lest they
barrel into trade season needing to blow this whole operation up and begin once again.
Reds ace Hunter Greene was activated on Saturday ahead of the team’s game against the Baltimore Orioles, their two-time All Star finally ready to make his 2026 debut after his March surgery to clean up debris in his prized right elbow. His minor league rehab starts have been basically perfect, his touted velocity once again there, and the Reds will now turn to Greene to help miraculously turn around their fortunes before it’s all too late.
He’ll start opposite Orioles starter Brandon Young, who pitched to an impressive 2.76 ERA across 29.1 IP (5 GS) during the month of June. That backed up an equally impressive May where he pitched to a 2.86 ERA in 28.1 IP (5 GS) as he has settled in as a force within the O’s rotation.
First pitch is set for 7:10 PM ET this 4th of July, with a massive fireworks display scheduled for after the game at Great American Ball Park.
