Reds prospect increases case for late-season call-up after spinning another gem

The Cincinnati Reds are dealing with a number of injuries to their starting rotation. Graham Ashcraft is out, Brandon Williamson hasn't started his rehab assignment yet, Hunter Greene is awaiting a second opinion, and Connor Phillips has just been awful.

But there is a glimmer of hope down in the minor leagues. Last year's first-round pick Rhett Lowder made his Triple-A debut on Thursday night and left little doubt that he's major league-ready. Lowder went six innings, struck out seven batters, and allowed just three hits (all singles).

The right-hander didn't allow a run to cross the plate and not a single batter drew a free pass. Lowder was lights out, and only increased his chances of a late-season call-up.

Rhett Lowder's case for late-season call-up increases after Reds prospect spins another gem

Lowder's day was over after 86 pitches, 53 of which went for strikes. The 22-year-old struck out the first batter he faced, and then dispatched of two more by way of the strikeout in the second inning; including former Reds player Alejo Lopez. Lowder notched two more Ks in the third and got three consecutive ground ball outs in the fourth inning.

Two more punch outs in the fifth followed by an inning-ending double-play in the sixth capped off a stunning start for Lowder, who at one point, sat down eight in a row. On the season, Lowder is 6-4 with a 3.64 ERA in 22 starts and 113 strikeouts in just under 110 innings of work.

Lowder has done enough to warrant a call-up to the big leagues later this season. With Cincinnati all but out of the playoff picture, giving their top prospect a handful of starts in September could help propel the right-hander heading into spring training next season.

Looking at the Reds' stable at the moment, outside of Greene, Lodolo, and Andrew Abbott, it's hard to find a pitcher who'll be guaranteed a spot in the Cincinnati starting rotation next season. Another strong start could see Lowder get a late-season audition for next year's roster.

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