The Reds’ rotation woes are compounded by the absences of Hunter Greene, who is sidelined with right elbow soreness, and Andrew Abbott, who is also on the 15-day IL with a left shoulder strain.

In addition to Lodolo’s injury, outfielder Stuart Fairchild has been placed on the 10-day IL due to a left thumb sprain. This roster shakeup occurred just before the start of a crucial three-game series against the Oakland Athletics.

To bolster their roster, the Reds have recalled outfielder Rece Hinds and right-handed pitcher Casey Legumina from Triple-A Louisville. Meanwhile, left-hander Brandon Williamson, recovering from a shoulder strain, has begun a rehab assignment with Louisville.

Nick Lodolo, who was drafted by the Reds with the 7th overall pick in 2019, has struggled with injuries since making his Major League debut in 2022. Despite a promising start to the current season, Lodolo has had difficulties since returning from a blister issue on his finger. In nine starts since his July 9 return from the injured list, he has posted a 1-3 record with a 7.95 ERA. This is the fourth time Lodolo has landed on the IL.

Reds manager David Bell expressed cautious optimism regarding Lodolo’s latest setback, suggesting there is a chance the pitcher might recover in a few weeks. “It’s not a long-term concern, but it’s a rare injury that could keep him out for the remainder of the year,” Bell noted.

With Lodolo sidelined, the Reds will rely on their bullpen to fill the gaps in the rotation. Nick Martinez and Carson Spiers, who started the season as relievers, will join rookie Julian Aguiar in the starting rotation as the Reds look to navigate this challenging stretch.