Top Prospect Chase Burns Set for Reds MLB Debut vs Yankees
The future is arriving quickly in Cincinnati. The Reds are reportedly set to promote top pitching prospect Chase Burns from Triple-A Louisville for his highly anticipated Major League Baseball debut. The electrifying right-hander is slated to take the mound against the formidable New York Yankees on Tuesday at Great American Ball Park.
This move marks a significant milestone for Burns, the second overall selection in the 2024 MLB draft. After a dominant collegiate career at Wake Forest, where he showcased his potential with eye-popping strikeout numbers and a sub-3.00 ERA, Burns quickly established himself as the top prospect in the Reds organization and was widely regarded as a top 50, and more recently, an #11 overall prospect by MLB Pipeline.
Dominance and a Rapid Ascent Through the Minors
Burns, just 22 years old, has navigated the minor league system at a blistering pace rarely seen. Beginning the 2025 season in High-A, he quickly earned promotions to Double-A and Triple-A, spending just two starts at the highest minor league level before getting the big league call.
Across 13 professional starts spanning 66.0 innings between High-A, Double-A, and Triple-A, Burns has been nothing short of dominant. He boasts a stellar 1.77 ERA, coupling it with an impressive 89 strikeouts against just 13 walks. His stuff includes a fastball that consistently hits triple digits and one of the “nastiest” or “sharp, biting” sliders in the minors. Beyond the raw stats, reports highlight his remarkable poise, often described as veteran-like despite his limited professional experience. Notably, even when facing Double-A teams for a second time, Burns reportedly pitched even better, demonstrating an ability to adjust.
Addressing Rotation Needs with a Bold Move
The decision to call up Burns less than a year after drafting him is viewed by many as an aggressive, even “bold step” for the Reds organization. It contrasts somewhat with their historical approach of “slow-playing” prospects. However, the move is heavily influenced by necessity.
The Reds’ starting pitching depth has been severely tested by injuries, with key arms like Hunter Greene, Rhett Lowder, and Wade Miley currently sidelined. Other pitchers like Nick Martinez have struggled in June, and young pitcher Chase Petty, recently recalled, has faced difficulties. With an ailing big league rotation and Burns excelling at every minor league stop, the Reds appear ready to give their top arm a shot.
Some analysts suggest this rapid promotion could indicate the organization believes Burns possesses truly generational talent, while others view it partly as a response to the pressing need for healthy, effective starters. Regardless of the primary driver, Burns has undeniably earned the opportunity through his exceptional performance.
The Challenge: Debut vs. the Yankees
Burns’ debut will be a significant test, stepping onto the Major League stage against a powerful New York Yankees lineup featuring hitters like Aaron Judge. It’s a high-profile introduction, but one the Reds are reportedly betting Burns’ talent and composure can handle.
His arrival provides a much-needed spark for the team and signals that the Reds aren’t just looking for a temporary fix, but potentially a long-term rotation anchor. As reported by Yahoo Sports, the message is clear: for the Cincinnati Reds, the future is arriving now.
The Reds will need to make a corresponding move to clear a space for Burns on both the active and 40-man rosters before Tuesday’s debut.
