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Scouting Report
Updated May 19, 2026
Chase Burns is a 23-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who has emerged as the National League leader in pitching WAR (1.8) through early May 2026. Despite the Reds being without ace Hunter Greene and starter Nick Lodolo for most of the season, Burns has been dominant with a 2.20 ERA, 201 ERA+, 1.024 WHIP, and 10.1 K/9 through 15 career starts. He recently pitched 7 scoreless innings against Pittsburgh and 6 innings of 1-run baseball against Houston, demonstrating the ability to be effective even when his strikeout stuff isn't at its peak. Manager Terry Francona compared his pitching ability to Justin Verlander. Burns is showing maturity in his approach, focusing on location and pitch sequencing when his swing-and-miss stuff isn't optimal.
Strengths
- + NL leader in pitching WAR (1.8)
- + Exceptional 2.20 ERA with 201 ERA+
- + Outstanding 10.1 K/9 strikeout rate
- + Excellent 1.024 WHIP
- + 7 scoreless innings vs Pittsburgh Pirates
- + Demonstrates ability to succeed without peak strikeout stuff
- + Strong pitch location and sequencing skills
- + Compared to Justin Verlander by manager Terry Francona
- + Only 23 years old with immense upside
- + Showing maturity and adaptability in approach
Weaknesses
- - Limited Major League experience (only 15 career starts)
- - Occasional inconsistency with slider placement
- - Strikeout numbers can fluctuate (only 2 K's in one recent outing)
- - Relies heavily on swing-and-miss stuff when available
About
Connor Burns is a catcher for the Cincinnati Reds.
Player Overview
C
Cincinnati Reds