Recent trade rumors have linked Baltimore Orioles to Cincinnati Reds’ ace Hunter Greene, suggesting a potential move to bolster the Orioles’ pitching rotation. Greene, a 26-year-old right-hander, has been a standout for the Reds since his MLB debut in 2022. In 2025, he posted a 2.75 ERA with 169 strikeouts over 150⅓ innings, earning his first All-Star selection and finishing eighth in NL Cy Young voting.
The Orioles, aiming to strengthen their pitching staff, have shown interest in acquiring Greene. MLB analyst and former Reds executive Jim Bowden identified Greene as one of the top 10 MLB stars most likely to be traded this offseason, with teams like the Orioles, Dodgers, Mets, Red Sox, and Yankees reportedly interested.
Greene’s contract, which includes a six-year, $53 million extension signed in 2023, offers the Orioles cost-effective control through 2029. The deal includes escalating salaries and a club option for 2029, making Greene an attractive acquisition for teams seeking long-term pitching stability.
Despite Greene’s impressive performance, there are concerns about his durability. In May 2025, he was placed on the injured list due to a grade 1 right groin strain, which sidelined him for several starts. Such injuries have led to debates among Reds fans about the advisability of trading their ace.
While the Orioles have not confirmed any trade discussions, the speculation continues to grow. If the Orioles were to pursue Greene, they would likely need to offer a substantial package of prospects or major league-ready talent to meet the Reds’ demands. The outcome of these rumors will depend on the Reds’ evaluation of Greene’s long-term value and the Orioles’ willingness to part with significant assets.
