Hunter Greene Named Opening Day Starter

Hunter Greene was told that he will be the Cincinnati Reds opening day starter in his second year with the team.

Leading a trio of second-year starters, including Nick Lodolo and Graham Ashcraft, the Reds top pick in the 2017 draft has emerged as the leader of the group.

He had some stellar efforts in 2022 but also fought adversity.  Greene was leading the National League in home runs allowed before missing 43 games with right shoulder strain last season.

The 23-year old Los Angeles native is aware of the importance of the season opener in Cincinnati.

"It means the world. It's a huge honor considering the history in Cincinnati," said Greene who had a 5-13 record in 24 starts his rookie season.  "It is a huge honor with the talent we have, Nick, Graham, Cessa (Luis).  Knowing the history and the potential we have to bring the team back (after 100 losses). It's a baseball city. We want to win as much as the fans do to bring that atmosphere back to the city."

Greene pitched four scoreless innings against the Cubs in an 8-6 loss to the Cubs.  He allowed an infield hit to Trey Mancini and a double to Yan Gomes.

David Bell also told Nick Lodolo he would start game two and Graham Ashcraft in game three.  

"Hunter deserves it.  He's worked so hard.  He knows what it means and really cares about it. He  just say that.  He shows it in his actions," Bell said. "He is a perfect representative of our team and the city. Het  cares about his teammates and other people." 

When Greene left the game the Reds led 5-0.  Luke Maile from Edgewood, Ky hit a two-run home run and Jason Vosler belted his second of the spring off Jameson Taillon.

Mancini, Patrick Wisdom and Christopher Morel hit home runs off Levi Stoudt in a six-run sixth inning to put the Cubs in the lead to stay.