Reds starter Nick Lodolo unlikely to return until after All Star break

After his first few starts of the season, Cincinnati Reds pitcher Nick Lodolo looked like a potential 2023 All-Star. We now know the youngster will not return to the Reds rotation until after the Midsummer Classic.

In May, Lodolo went on the injured list with a stress reaction to his left tibia. On June 3rd, Lodolo was moved to the 60-day IL.

Nick Lodolo started the season off hot. In his first start, Lodolo earned the win against the Pittsburgh Pirates while striking out nine in five innings.

Reds injury update: Nick Lodolo unlikely to return until after All Star break.

Lodolo followed that up by striking out 12 and allowing only three hits over seven innings against Philadelphia. Lodolo picked up his second win of the season in his next game also against Philadelphia.

After three starts, Lodolo was 2-1 with a 2.12 ERA, and then things went south. Before heading to the injured list, Lodolo's ERA ballooned to 6.16. Yet, the beginning of the season showcased the promise of Nick Lodolo. Fans can hope to see him return after the All Star break and find that early-season magic.

Cincinnati Reds fans will be anxious to get Nick Lodolo back into the starting rotation. If Lodolo can be the same pitcher he was earlier this season ,the Reds will have a very dynamic 1-2-3 punch in the rotation with Hunter Greene and Andrew Abbott as well. Time will only tell, but most Reds fans believe Lodolo has the stuff to be a quality All-Star level pitcher for years to come.

A healthy Nick Lodolo after the All-Star break could help propel the young Reds up the standings in the NL Central. Here's to him getting the rest he needs, and Reds management giving him the time to fully recover before returning to in-gam action.