Reds fans’ worries about Rhett Lowder are a bit ahead of reality

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Rhett Lowder had a forgettable trip to the mound during his previous start last Saturday against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Lowder allowed eight runs on five hits and walked four batters. He couldn't even make it out of the second inning before he was replaced by Connor Phillips. Combined, Lowder and Phillips walked seven straight batters.

After the game, numerous Reds fans took to social media decrying Lowder's performance. Some even went as far to suggest that he should sent back to the minor leagues.

Okay, let's settle down for just a moment, shall we? Yes, Lowder had a poor performance last week at PNC Park. And because it was against the Pirates — whose fanbase has suddenly found something to believe in for the first time in two decades — the voices from the other side were a little louder than normal. But Lowder has pitched well this season, and for the majority of his Reds' career.

Reds fans need a reminder of how good Rhett Lowder really is

Prior to last week's meltdown, Lowder was one of the biggest reasons the Reds were winning so many games during the early-going. He went at least five innings during his first six starts of the 2026 campaign and posted a respectable 3.18 ERA and 2.94 FIP. The strikeout numbers (17.9% K rate) weren't exactly where you might expect, but he wasn't walking opposing hitters either (7.1% BB rate).

After his regrettable performance in the Steel City, those numbers have understandably changed quite a bit. Lowder is now 3-2 on the year with a 5.09 ERA and 3.23 FIP. His strikeout rate has dipped to just 17% and his walk rate has ballooned to 9.2%.

Fans have to remember, however, that Lowder only has 13 Major League starts under his belt. That's easy to forget because he debuted in 2024 and is already 24 years old. But after missing all last season due to injury, Lowder retained rookie status heading into 2026 and altogether has a 3.27 ERA and 3.17 FIP over 66 innings of work. He's allowed just one home run during that span, and given Cincinnati's injury-riddled rotation, there's little to reason to believe he'll be sent down in the minors.

The Reds' recent struggles have the fanbase on edge, and that's somewhat understandable. Heading into the current roadtrip, Cincinnati was nine games over .500 and tied for first place.

Lowder had a bad game. It happens. Now, if one bad game turns into two bad games in a row, then perhaps the Cincinnati faithful have something to worry about. Lowder will get the ball from manager Terry Francona for Thursday's series' finale against the Chicago Cubs and will be opposed by left-hander Shōta Imanaga.

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