Cincinnati Reds Pitcher Hunter Greene Has Done it Again, making Major Announcement, Manager Terry Francona React shock…see more
Cincinnati Reds Pitcher Hunter Greene Has Done It Again, Making Major Announcement — Manager Terry Francona Reacts in Shock
May 9, 2025 — Cincinnati, OH — In a stunning turn of events that’s dominating headlines across the baseball world, Cincinnati Reds ace Hunter Greene has once again captured national attention — but this time, it’s not for his blistering fastball or a record-setting strikeout count. The 25-year-old flamethrower delivered a bombshell announcement Friday afternoon that left Reds fans stunned and manager Terry Francona visibly shaken.
During a packed media session at Great American Ball Park, Greene — flanked by team president Nick Krall and a visibly emotional Francona — stepped to the podium to deliver what he described as “the most personal decision of my life.”
“After months of personal reflection, and with the full support of my family, I’ve decided to take a step back from professional baseball — indefinitely,” Greene announced. “This isn’t about injury or performance. This is about personal growth, mental health, and long-term vision for who I want to be as a man.”
Gasps and murmurs rippled through the room. This came just weeks after Greene pitched a complete-game shutout against the Cardinals and two months into a season where he was leading the Reds’ rotation with a 2.47 ERA and 68 strikeouts over 52 innings.
“This is not retirement,” Greene clarified. “This is me acknowledging that life is bigger than the mound. For the first time, I’m giving myself permission to explore that.”
The former second overall pick in the 2017 MLB Draft, Greene has long been seen as the face of Cincinnati’s pitching future — a player with a golden arm and a composed, intelligent presence off the field. But behind that image, Greene hinted at years of internal pressure, public expectation, and emotional wear that finally became too much to ignore.
“I’ve given everything to this game — and I love it. But I’ve learned that loving something doesn’t mean you can’t also need space from it,” Greene said.
Manager Terry Francona, who joined the Reds this season and has been a steady hand for a youthful roster, was visibly taken aback by the announcement. Known for his calm, veteran demeanor, Francona choked up while offering his reaction.
“When he told me, I didn’t have words. I just gave him a hug,” Francona said, pausing for a moment. “You think of Hunter Greene and you think of firepower, poise, and confidence. But this… this takes more courage than anything he’s done on the mound.”
The announcement has stirred a mix of shock, support, and deep respect across the baseball world. Greene’s teammates responded with unity, several posting heartfelt messages online within minutes of the news breaking.
Reds outfielder Elly De La Cruz posted on X: “Hunter’s one of the strongest people I know. Proud of him for doing what’s right for his heart.”
Fellow pitcher Nick Lodolo added: “We’ll hold it down until you’re ready, brother. Your health and happiness come first.”
Across MLB, players and fans echoed that sentiment. Shohei Ohtani, in a post-game interview, called the decision “brave,” while former pitcher CC Sabathia tweeted, “Hunter Greene just showed the world that athletes are human too. Mad respect.”
As for the Reds organization, President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall reiterated that Greene’s roster spot would remain open for him when — or if — he’s ready to return.
“Hunter has been everything we could’ve asked for and more. We support his decision fully and unconditionally. He has our respect, our patience, and our prayers,” Krall said.
The Reds now face the immediate challenge of adjusting their rotation without their ace. While rookie Andrew Abbott and veteran Frankie Montas are expected to take on larger roles, Francona emphasized that team unity, not panic, would define their next steps.
“We’re not just a team — we’re a family,” Francona said. “And when a family member says they need time, you don’t ask questions. You listen and support them.”
Greene, who has always been open about his interests beyond baseball — including fashion, philanthropy, and creative writing — hinted that this time away would include personal exploration outside the sports world.
“I’ve always felt called to things beyond the diamond,” he said. “Now I finally feel at peace enough to pursue them.”
Still, Greene ended his announcement with a heartfelt message to the city of Cincinnati — the fans who’ve stood by him through highs and lows.
“To the fans: thank you for believing in me. I know this might be hard to understand, but I promise this is not the end. I just need time — and your continued support means everything,” he said. “I love this city. I always will.”
As Greene left the podium to a standing ovation from those in attendance, one thing was clear: while his absence will be felt on the field, his decision has already made a lasting impact off it.