Reds Face Early Rotation Shuffle as Lodolo, Greene Hit IL
The Cincinnati Reds are navigating an early-season challenge with both Nick Lodolo and Hunter Greene starting the year on the injured list. Lodolo, the team’s projected No. 2 starter, will commence the season on the 15-day IL due to a blister on his left index finger. This adds to the already significant absence of Greene, who is recovering from elbow surgery to address bone chips and is expected to be sidelined until at least July.
Lodolo’s Recurring Blister Issue
This isn’t new territory for Lodolo, who has battled blister problems in the past. This will mark the third consecutive season a blister issue has landed him on the IL. While the current issue is less concerning than Greene’s elbow surgery, it’s still a frustrating setback for the left-hander. Lodolo left his final spring start after just 10 pitches on Sunday, March 22nd, when the blister flared up. The IL stint can be backdated three days, potentially allowing him to return within 13 days of the regular season’s start.
Impact on the Reds’ Rotation
With Lodolo sidelined, Andrew Abbott will make his first career Opening Day start against Garrett Crochet and the Boston Red Sox on Thursday. Brady Singer, originally slated to pitch the series finale, will likely move up to Saturday. Rhett Lowder is expected to close out the Boston series, and Chase Burns and Brandon Williamson will round out the starting five, opening next week’s series against the Pirates.
Young Arms Step Up
Lowder, Burns, and Williamson had already secured their spots on the team, initially with the possibility of a six-man rotation or tandem starts. However, Lodolo’s injury has solidified their roles as traditional starters. This shift will likewise create an opening in the bullpen, potentially leading to a recall for Kyle Nicolas, who was recently cut from the team. Julian Aguiar and Chase Petty are also possibilities for long relief.
The Broader Trend of Pitcher Injuries
The Reds’ situation highlights a growing concern across Major League Baseball: the increasing frequency of pitcher injuries. While blister issues like Lodolo’s are often considered less severe, they still disrupt team plans and require careful management. More serious injuries, like Greene’s, can have a significant impact on a team’s season. The rise in velocity and pitch complexity, combined with the demands of a long season, are often cited as contributing factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long is Nick Lodolo expected to be out?
A: Lodolo’s IL stint can be backdated, potentially allowing him to return within 13 days of the regular season’s start, though a minimal stint is anticipated.
Q: Who will replace Hunter Greene in the rotation?
A: A combination of Rhett Lowder, Chase Burns, and Brandon Williamson will fill out the rotation while Greene recovers.
Q: What is the Reds’ plan for the bullpen with the rotation changes?
A: The Reds may recall Kyle Nicolas or consider Julian Aguiar and Chase Petty for long relief roles.
Did you know? Blisters are a common ailment for pitchers, caused by friction between the fingers and the baseball. Preventative measures, like taping or using specialized grips, are often employed, but they aren’t always effective.
Stay tuned for further updates on the Reds’ pitching situation and their performance throughout the season. Explore our other articles for in-depth analysis and insights into the world of baseball.
