Chase Burns Ready to Make Electrifying MLB Debut for Reds Against Yankees
CINCINNATI (AP) — From backyard dreams to the big leagues, Chase Burns’ journey has gathered speed.
At the age of 22, Burns is set to take the mound for the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday night, marking his major league debut against none other than the New York Yankees, the team he once dreamt of representing.
“As a kid, Derek Jeter was my idol, and I always pictured myself in pinstripes. Wearing a Reds uniform, though, feels pretty amazing,” Burns shared on Monday as excitement built for the three-game series opener against the Yankees.
Drafted just a year ago as the second overall pick, Burns accelerated through Class-A Dayton, Double-A Chattanooga, and Triple-A Louisville, boasting an impressive 7-3 record paired with a 1.77 ERA. The Reds management believes the right-hander is ready, adding him to the active roster following his elevation to the taxi squad.
“Getting here this fast feels surreal. Not long ago, it seemed like I was just starting out in Dayton,” Burns reflected. His arsenal — a fastball clocking in at an intimidating 97 mph, coupled with a menacing slider and an emerging changeup — has him primed for the big stage.
Joining the majors, Burns becomes the fifth first-rounder from last year’s class to rise to the top level, sharing the milestone with players like Nick Kurtz of the Athletics and Christian Moore of the Angels.
“Chase is electric. His mental makeup is just right for this challenge,” commented Reds pitcher Andrew Abbott, emphasizing the rookie’s readiness to face the Yankees’ lineup, featuring powerhouses like Aaron Judge.
Manager Terry Francona isn’t worried about Burns facing the Yankees under the spotlight. “This is about Chase being himself. Whatever happens, happens,” Francona stated assuredly.
The Reds look to build on Monday’s 6-1 series-opening triumph and remain within sight of the NL wild-card spot. June’s strong finish has infused the team with optimism for a postseason push in Francona's inaugural season at the helm.
