The Cincinnati Reds get their promising top starting pitcher back in their rotation on Tuesday when they host the Colorado Rockies. Left-hander Nick Lodolo returns for Cincinnati after spending time on the 15-day injured list due to a blister on his left hand. Jeff Wallner of the Associated Press reported that Lodolo will skip a rehab assignment and slide right back into the Reds rotation.
“I feel pretty good about it right now and ready to go tomorrow,” Lodolo told reporters on Monday.
Lodolo, 26, is 8-3 with a 2.96 ERA and a 1.071 WHIP in 12 starts and 70 innings.
Reds’ Nick Lodolo is Set to Return on Tuesday
His last start on June 23 saw Lodolo’s five-start winning streak snapped against the Boston Red Sox. He allowed four runs (three earned) on five hits over 4 2/3 innings, his shortest outing of the season. Lodolo threw 20 pitches to hitters in a live batting practice session before the Reds played the New York Yankees on July 3. It went
well, and Lodolo threw one more bullpen session over the weekend.
Lodolo has been the Reds’ most effective starter this season. He’s struck out 25.1 percent of his opponents to a 6.5 percent walk rate. It was his third IL placement of the season, previously missing time due to a minor groin and calf injuries. Lodolo will be making just his second career start against the Rockies. He allowed two hits over six shutout innings, striking out nine and walking one in a no-decision.
The Reds are looking to build momentum after a 6-0 win on Monday. First-time All-Star Elly De La Cruz did all the work. The shortstop singled, doubled, walked, scored twice, stole two bases and hit a home run. De La Cruz helped the Reds snap a three-game skid and improved to 1-3 on their 10-game homestand.
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