The Cincinnati Reds would unquestionably benefit from a Chase Burns breakout season in 2026. Burns, who was selected by the Reds with the second overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, features a high ceiling without question. MLB insider Ken Rosenthal believes Burns could be a breakout candidate in 2026, something he explained on Foul Territory.

"Pitching, I'll go with Chase Burns of the Cincinnati Reds," Rosenthal said. "Made his debut last year and, for me, was really impressive... He had a high ERA, but his FIP (fielding independent pitching), which is a better measure perhaps of what should have happened under his control, was only 2.54. So he's a guy with great promise."

The 22-year-old pitched in a total of 13 regular season games in 2025, making eight starts. He also pitched in one postseason game, which surely was valuable experience for the young starter.

As Rosenthal mentioned, Burns' 4.57 ERA was far from ideal but was somewhat deceiving, as he displayed promise nonetheless. He struck out 67 hitters compared to 13 walks and recorded 13.9 strikeouts per nine innings. He finished the season with a 35.6 percent strikeout rate and 8.5 percent walk rate.

The Reds' rotation has the potential to be extremely impressive. Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo are also young starters with high ceilings. Rosenthal admitted that he is a big fan of the starting rotation in Cincinnati.

"I sort of love the Reds' rotation," Rosenthal continued. "It's young and there are more coming. And that's going to be something to watch in the early part of the season."

Cincinnati still needs to add another bat or two. The Reds were rumored to have interest in Kyle Schwarber before he returned to the Philadelphia Phillies this offseason. Phillies outfielder/DH Nick Castellanos has been mentioned as a possible trade candidate for the Reds. 

If Cincinnati is able to add a couple of more proven bats to the lineup, their offense should be able to do just enough in 2026. Meanwhile, the starting rotation -- if it lives up to its potential and avoids too much injury trouble -- will handle the rest. 

Of course, the Reds will especially benefit if Rosenthal's prediction ends up coming true and Chase Burns does indeed break out during the '26 campaign. He will end up making a huge impact if he pitches to his potential.