Hunter Greene, Cincinnati Reds. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images)
Cincinnati Reds starter Hunter Greene will be making history with his Opening Day start tomorrow against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Whenever Cincinnati Reds fans look at projections for the team’s 2023 season, they likely aren’t overly excited about what they see. But starting pitcher Hunter Greene, who earned the nod to take the mound against the Pirates on Opening Day, will give fans a cool moment to start the year.
At just 23 years old, Greene will become the Cincinnati Reds’ youngest Opening Day starter since Frank Pastore back in 1980 (22 years old).
Not to put pressure on Greene, but Pastore had a fantastic duel with Phil Niekro and threw a complete game, and gave up just three hits.
Hunter Greene making Reds history as youngest Opening Day starter in 40+ years
After speaking with the Dayton Daily News on Monday, Greene addressed the media to talk about his upcoming historic Opening Day start.
“I think I’m just trying to stay within myself, to be honest with you. I’m still super excited, but I think I’m starting to hone my focus in more leading up to Opening Day and what’s in store for that day. I know there’s going to be a lot going on, but at the end of the day, I’ve got to do my job and put the team in the best position to win and do well that day.”
Last season, Greene finished with a record of 5-13 with a 5.44 ERA. While the team also struggled significantly last year, Greene is still young and improving. He looked more comfortable on the mound in Spring Training and seems to have a more relaxed approach this season.
Although he will make Reds history tomorrow, Greene’s hopes for the 2023 season go far beyond that. But a great Opening Day start could get him on the right track for an improved 2023 season.