Reds Slow Chase Burns After Range Of Motion Issue

"We're nipping this in the bud right now," Francona said. The fact that Burns was still able to take the ball on Friday suggests concern should be minor, but the issue could shape how the young righty is handled early in the season. Francona added that the Reds' medical staff is putting together a routine to help Burns avoid the range of motion issue between starts moving forward."

"Burns was the consensus top prospect in the Reds system heading into last season. He didn't disappoint when he got the call, striking out eight Yankees in his June debut. The young righty was obliterated by the Red Sox in his second start, skewing his final line, but he was mostly as advertised across 13 appearances."

"Burns finished the regular season with a massive 35.6% strikeout rate over 43 1/3 innings. His 2.68 xFIP and 2.76 SIERA were significantly lower than his ERA (4.57). Burns retired five straight Dodgers in his lone postseason appearance."

Cincinnati Reds right-hander Chase Burns had a shortened spring training appearance, throwing just 24 pitches compared to 68 in his previous outing. Manager Terry Francona confirmed the reduction was intentional following Burns' limited range of motion in his throwing arm earlier in the week. The medical staff is developing a routine to prevent future occurrences between starts. Burns' ability to pitch suggests minimal concern, though it may influence his early-season workload management. With ace Hunter Greene undergoing elbow surgery, Burns competes with Rhett Lowder and Brandon Williamson for a rotation spot. Burns was the Reds' top prospect entering last season and impressed in his debut, striking out eight Yankees in June despite inconsistent results across 13 appearances.

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