What happened: Surgeons determined Greene needed a full UCL replacement after evaluating his right elbow Wednesday in California. Gordon Wittenmyer put the recovery window at 12-18 months.

Why it matters: The Reds have spent most of 2026 without Greene and struggled to replace his peak production. The procedure removes a pitcher capable of a 6.0-WAR season from Cincinnati's 2027 plans.

By the numbers: Greene's first Tommy John surgery came in 2019; he also underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow in March 2026.

What to watch: Watch for Cincinnati's 2027 rotation plan and Greene's early rehabilitation milestones.

Sources