Wade Miley is making headlines again in June 2025, as the 38-year-old veteran left-hander rejoins the Cincinnati Reds on a one-year major league contract. This move comes after Miley recently opted out of his minor league deal with the Reds, only to return to the organization when ace pitcher Hunter Greene landed on the 15-day injured list with a right groin strain. Miley’s journey over the past year has been marked by perseverance, following Tommy John surgery and a challenging rehab stint in the minors. Now, he’s back in the big leagues, ready to add experience and stability to a Reds rotation in need of depth.
Miley’s new deal is worth a prorated $2.5 million, with up to $1.5 million in additional incentives based on performance. This contract reflects both the Reds’ urgency to shore up their pitching staff and their confidence in Miley’s ability to contribute, even after a lengthy absence from major league action. His first outing in relief against Milwaukee showed some rust—four runs and six hits over two innings—but the Reds are optimistic that Miley will settle in now that he’s scheduled to start.
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Wade Miley’s Road Back to the Majors
Wade Miley’s path to this moment has been anything but smooth. After suffering a torn UCL during his second start with the Milwaukee Brewers in 2024, he underwent Tommy John surgery in May of that year. The road to recovery was long, with Miley spending much of the 2025 season rehabbing in the minors. His minor league performance was uneven, posting an 8.84 ERA over seven starts between High-A Dayton and Triple-A Louisville. Despite the numbers, Miley’s grit and experience kept him in the conversation for a major league return.
The Reds initially signed Miley to a minor league contract in February 2025, which included an opt-out clause if he hadn’t reached the big leagues by June 1. When that deadline passed, Miley triggered the clause, briefly becoming a free agent. However, with Greene’s injury and the Reds’ need for a reliable starter, Miley and the team quickly found common ground. Reds manager Terry Francona praised the handling of the situation, noting that the organization wanted to give Miley a fair shot at a starting role rather than relegating him to the bullpen.
Miley’s return to the Reds is a homecoming of sorts. He previously pitched for Cincinnati from 2020 to 2021, making 34 appearances (32 starts) and recording a 12-10 record with a 3.55 ERA. His most memorable moment came on May 7, 2021, when he threw the 17th no-hitter in Reds history at Cleveland. That performance remains a highlight in his 14-year major league career, which includes over 310 starts and a reputation as a dependable innings-eater.
What Wade Miley Brings to the Reds
At 38, Wade Miley is not the hard-throwing ace he once was, but his value to the Reds goes beyond raw velocity. He brings veteran leadership, a proven track record of durability (when healthy), and a crafty approach to pitching that can frustrate hitters. Miley’s presence in the rotation adds depth and experience, especially important as the Reds navigate a series of injuries to key pitchers like Hunter Greene and Rhett Lowder.
Miley’s first start in place of Greene is tentatively scheduled for early June at Cleveland, a fitting venue given his no-hitter there in 2021. While his initial relief appearance was shaky, the Reds are banking on Miley’s ability to settle in and provide quality innings. His experience also serves as a valuable resource for younger pitchers like Nick Lodolo and Andrew Abbott, who are both left-handers and can benefit from Miley’s mentorship.
Here’s a quick look at what Wade Miley offers the Reds in 2025:
- Veteran Leadership: Miley’s 14 years of MLB experience provide guidance for a young pitching staff.
- Rotation Depth: His return helps the Reds manage injuries and keep their playoff hopes alive.
- Proven Track Record: Miley has a history of success with the Reds, including a no-hitter and solid ERA during his previous stint.
- Clubhouse Presence: Respected by teammates and coaches, Miley is known for his professionalism and positive attitude.
The Bigger Picture for Wade Miley and the Reds
Wade Miley’s return to the Reds is more than just a roster move—it’s a story of resilience and second chances. After contemplating retirement following his UCL injury, Miley chose to undergo surgery and work his way back to the majors. His determination paid off when the Reds, facing a pitching crisis, called on him to step up.
For the Reds, Miley’s signing is a low-risk, high-reward gamble. If he can return to form, even partially, he could be a key piece in their push for the postseason. If not, his contract is structured to minimize financial risk. Either way, Miley’s presence provides stability and a sense of calm in a clubhouse that has seen its share of turbulence this season.
Fans will be watching closely as Wade Miley takes the mound in the coming weeks. His journey serves as a reminder that perseverance and experience still matter in today’s game. Whether he recaptures the magic of his 2021 no-hitter or simply provides steady innings, Miley’s return is a welcome development for the Reds and their supporters.
Ready to see if Wade Miley can help lead the Reds back to contention? Follow his starts and the team’s progress as the season unfolds.