The Reds still trail the New York Mets for the third and final wild-card spot in the National League and have their work cut out for them.

Hunter Greene, the Cincinnati Reds ’ Opening Day starter, made his long-anticipated return from a double dip on the injured list for a Grade 1 groin strain and dominated the powerful Philadelphia Phillies lineup on Wednesday night for six scoreless innings.

From the Reds’ perspective, the long-awaited return of Hunter Greene to the mound on Wednesday night vs. the Phillies could not have gone better. For a team trying to make it into the postseason, its timing could be pivotal.