Lodolo Injured List: Reds Place Starting Pitcher
Reds Place Key Starter Nick Lodolo on IL with Blister, Zulueta Called Up
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The Cincinnati Reds have placed left-handed starter Nick Lodolo on the 15-day injured list due to a blister on his left index finger. This is a tough blow for a team contending in the National League, but they appear well-equipped to navigate Lodolo’s absence. Reliever Yosver zulueta has been recalled from Triple-A Louisville to take Lodolo’s spot on the active roster.
Lodolo’s Injury and Timeline
Lodolo exited his start at Wrigley Field on Monday night in the second inning, signaling the issue. This isn’t new territory for the 27-year-old; he’s battled blister problems before, including a similar issue on the same finger last season that sidelined him for a couple of weeks. Manager Terry Francona acknowledged the recurring nature of the problem influenced the decision to place him on the IL (via ESPN).
While there’s currently no firm timeline for his return, the team doesn’t anticipate a lengthy stint. Expect Lodolo to miss at least two starts. Blisters can be notoriously unpredictable, but the Reds are hoping for a relatively quick recovery for their ace.
Lodolo’s Standout Season
This has undeniably been a breakout year for lodolo. He’s established himself as a legitimate top-of-the-rotation arm,posting a stellar 3.05 ERA across 23 starts. He’s pitched a career-high 129 2/3 innings, showcasing extraordinary durability alongside his effectiveness.
Digging deeper into the numbers, Lodolo boasts a 23.6% strikeout rate and a remarkably low 4.6% walk rate. His recent form has been particularly impressive - over his last nine starts, he’s maintained a sub-2.00 ERA while striking out 27% of the batters he faces. For a former seventh overall pick, this level of performance is exactly what Reds fans have been waiting for. It’s a testament to his hard work and development, and his absence will certainly be felt.
How the Reds Will Cover Lodolo’s Starts
Fortunately, the Reds have proactively built depth that will help them weather Lodolo’s injury. The recent acquisition of Zack Littell was specifically intended to provide rotation adaptability.Littell will now step into the rotation for at least one turn, providing a steady hand while the team waits for other options to become available.
Looking ahead, Hunter Greene is nearing a return from a groin strain that has kept him sidelined as early June. He’s currently with Triple-A Louisville for a rehab assignment and will need at least one more start there before rejoining the big league club. Greene’s return will further solidify the Reds’ pitching staff and provide a notable boost as they push for a playoff berth.
The Reds’ pitching depth,bolstered by strategic trades and the impending return of key players,positions them well to navigate this temporary setback. While replacing Lodolo’s recent dominance won’t be easy, the team has the pieces in place to remain competitive during his absence. You can find more data on Zulueta and other Reds players at Baseball-Reference.