Mon Jun 23 23:40:00 UTC 2025: **Cincinnati Reds Call Up Top Prospect Chase Burns for MLB Debut Against Yankees**

**CINCINNATI, OH -** The Cincinnati Reds are set to inject some serious excitement into their playoff push by calling up their top prospect, right-handed pitcher Chase Burns, to make his major league debut next week. Burns, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 MLB draft and ranked as ESPN’s No. 12 prospect, will take the mound at Great American Ball Park on Tuesday against the New York Yankees.

The 22-year-old Burns has rapidly ascended through the minor league ranks this season, displaying dominance at three different levels. He boasts an impressive fastball that reaches the upper 90s and a slider that has been lauded as potentially the best breaking ball in the minor leagues, clocking in between 86 and 90 mph. In 13 professional starts, including his most recent stint with Triple-A Louisville, Burns has compiled a 7-3 record with a stellar 1.77 ERA and 89 strikeouts in 66 innings.

“We’re trying to give ourselves every chance to win and be in this, and right now, we feel like Chase gives us the best chance, and it’s time to go,” said Reds General Manager Brad Meador to the Cincinnati Enquirer.

The Reds (39-38) are currently vying for a National League wild-card spot despite an inconsistent season. Adding Burns to the rotation is seen as a significant move to bolster their pitching staff, which, despite solid overall performance (3.90 team ERA, 1.23 WHIP), recently placed left-hander Wade Miley on the injured list.

“They tried to throw a lot at him. He just kind of handled everything,” said Reds manager Terry Francona regarding Burns’ rapid progression.

Burns’ debut will pit him against Yankees’ right-hander Carlos Rodon, who has a 9-5 record with a 3.10 ERA this season.

In addition to the Burns announcement, the Reds made several other roster moves: recalling right-hander Yosver Zulueta from Triple-A Louisville, reinstating third baseman Jeimer Candelario from his rehab assignment, optioning right-hander Chase Petty to Louisville, and designating second baseman Garrett Hampson for assignment.

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