Reds Activate Rookie Pitcher Chase Burns From Injured List

The Cincinnati Reds have activated rookie right-hander Chase Burns from the 15-day injured list following a Grade 1 right flexor strain that sidelined him for about a month. Burns, who did not go on a rehab assignment, will return to pitch out of the bullpen primarily in a long-relief role rather than as a closer, which may limit his fantasy baseball value. Manager Terry Francona emphasized a cautious approach to Burns' usage to balance his health and effectiveness, noting he will not be brought in in high-leverage situations with runners on base but rather as a bridge after starters. Burns had a strong rookie season start, striking out 10 batters in four of his eight starts before the injury, and features a fastball averaging 98.6 mph and a slider with a high swing-and-miss rate. His return is expected to bolster the Reds' bullpen as they compete for a National League wild-card spot in the final games of the season. Prior to activation, Burns threw two simulated games and a bullpen session, confirming his readiness to rejoin the team.