Reds Give Promising Update on Pitcher Amid Injury Woes

Lowder, 24, last pitched on May 7, when he allowed three runs in three innings before being pulled with what was termed right shoulder discomfort. An MRI did not reveal any structural damage, but he was given an injection in his AC joint to allow it to calm down.

Francona indicated earlier this week that Lowder’s IL placement would be somewhat precautionary, with the hope that a couple of weeks off would benefit him long-term. The former seventh-overall pick posted a 1.17 ERA over 30.2 MLB innings in 2024 but was limited to just 9.1 minor league innings last season due to forearm and oblique injuries.

Through his first six starts this season, Lowder posted a 3.18 ERA and 1.18 WHIP. Things went south in his last two outings, however, as he allowed eight runs over 1.1 innings just five days before his abbreviated start against the Chicago Cubs on May 7. He now owns a 5.40 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 16.3% strikeout rate through eight starts.

In addition to Lowder, Cincinnati is currently without Hunter Greene (right elbow surgery) and Brandon Williamson, who was transferred to the 60-day IL last week with left shoulder fatigue. The Reds recently got back Nick Lodolo, who made his season debut last Friday after missing time due to blister issues on his throwing hand.

While Lowder is sidelined, newly signed right-hander Chris Paddack will hold down a spot in the Reds’ rotation. The eight-year veteran was recently let go by the Miami Marlins after posting a 7.63 ERA and 1.66 WHIP over 30.2 innings. He is scheduled to make his first start for Cincinnati on Saturday.