Reds must lock up this rising star before it’s too late

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Chase Burns (26) watches Hunter Greene throw a bullpen session | Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesFor those who are unaware, it's officially contract extension season throughout Major League Baseball. A number of long-term deals will be negotiated over the next couple of months, and the Cincinnati Reds have an obvious candidate for a contract extension staring them right in the face.

While a case could be made for starting catcher Tyler Stephenson — who'll be a free agent after the 2026 season — or up-and-coming top prospect Sal Stewart, the Reds should make every effort this spring to sign flamethrower Chase Burns to a long-term contract…