The Cincinnati Reds have placed rookie right-hander Chase Burns on the 15-day injured list due to an elbow issue. This decision, announced on Friday, is retroactive to June 25, 2024. Burns has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 right flexor strain, which has raised concerns about his availability for the remainder of the season.
In his debut season, the 22-year-old pitcher has struggled, posting an 0-3 record with a 5.24 ERA across eight starts since his major league debut on June 24, 2024. Despite these challenges, Burns has shown flashes of promise, striking out exactly 10 batters in four of his last five starts. This performance has brought his season total to 57 strikeouts over 34 and one-third innings pitched.
The Reds selected Burns with the second overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft from Wake Forest, highlighting the team’s investment in his potential. His recent injury raises questions about how it might affect his development moving forward.
In response to Burns’ placement on the injured list, the Reds have recalled left-handed reliever Joe La Sorsa from Triple-A Louisville. The 27-year-old La Sorsa will provide additional support to the bullpen as the team navigates this period without Burns.
As the Reds continue their season, the focus will be on monitoring Burns’ recovery and determining when he might be able to return to the mound. The team remains hopeful that this setback will not hinder his long-term prospects in the major leagues.