Reds fans blindsided by new Nick Lodolo injury as rotation changes expected to come

When it rains it pours. First, it was TJ Friedl who was placed back on the injured list after suffering a broken thumb this past Sunday. Now Nick Lodolo is headed back to the IL with a left groin strain. The Reds have recalled reliever Sam Moll to take Lodolo's spot on the active roster.

This is the latest in a series of injuries to some of the Reds best players, and it's a major reason why the team has struggled so much at the outset of the 2024 season. In addition to Lodolo and Friedl, the Reds have been without Matt McLain, Ian Gibaut, and Alex Young. Tejay Antone is also out the season as well.

With this latest injury news comes an obvious change to the starting rotation. Most likely, Reds fans can expect to see Nick Martinez take the ball for what would have been Lodolo's next start. But there are other options as well.

Reds fans blindsided by new Nick Lodolo injury as rotation changes expected to come

Martinez last pitched on May 12th. The right-hander came on in relief, logged 1.1 innings of one-hit baseball, and struck out one batter. Lodolo's next turn in the rotation would have taken place on Thursday against the Los Angeles Dodgers, so if it truly is Martinez that gets the ball, he'll be doing so on just three days rest.

Over the long haul, Brandon Williamson is certainly a pitcher that manager David Bell could turn to. The left-hander, however, just began a rehab assignment on Tuesday, and won't be ready until later this month or early-June.

Carson Spiers could certainly give the Reds a spot start as well. The right-hander has been stellar for the Louisville Bats this season with a sparkling 1.14 ERA over his last six appearances. Spiers, however, pitched on May12th as well, so it's doubtful that the Reds will recall him to take Lodolo's start on Thursday at Chavez Ravine.

No matter who takes the ball for the Reds against the Dodgers, he won't have the same effectiveness that Lodolo's possesses. The southpaw has been dominant this season with a 3.34 ERA and 43 strikeouts. Hopefully this is just a minor setback and Lodolo will be back in action without the need for a rehab assignment.

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