The Cincinnati Reds’ top starting pitcher, Nick Lodolo, is returning to the injured list due to a blister on his left hand. Lodolo, who struggled in his last start, will be on the 15-day IL, retroactive to June 24th. He has been impressive this season with an 8-3 record, a 2.96 ERA, and 73 strikeouts in 70 innings. Manager David Bell will have to manage without his star pitcher for at least two weeks.
In Lodolo’s absence, the Reds have recalled right-handed reliever Yosver Zulueta from Triple-A Louisville. Acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays, Zulueta has a 2.93 ERA in 23 appearances for the Louisville Bats.
This injury is another setback for the Reds’ 2024 playoff hopes. The team has been plagued by injuries, starting with Matt McLain and TJ Friedl in March, and now including Brandon Williamson and Christian Encarnacion-Strand.
Lodolo’s absence means Carson Spiers will likely remain on the active roster. Spiers performed well against the Pittsburgh Pirates and is expected to start again against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Graham Ashcraft, who was optioned to Triple-A earlier this month, may return to fill the gap in the rotation. The Reds could bring Ashcraft back to the active roster by Friday.