Scouting Report: Chase Burns

Summary

Chase Burns, the 2024 second overall pick, has emerged as the Cincinnati Reds' ace and National League leader in pitching WAR (1.8) through early May 2026. At just 23 years old with only 15 career starts, Burns has posted a 2.11 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, 201 ERA+, and 10.1 K/9 through eight starts with a 4-1 record. He recently delivered a crucial performance on May 9, 2026, pitching six innings of one-run ball to earn his fourth win and help the Reds snap an eight-game losing streak with a 3-1 victory over the Astros. Burns has recorded three consecutive quality starts and limited opponents to two earned runs or fewer in seven of eight outings. Despite not always relying on strikeouts, he demonstrates excellent control and pitch location, showing maturity beyond his years. The Reds' rotation has been decimated by injuries to Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo, making Burns' dominance even more critical to the team's playoff hopes.