The Reds made an announcement on Friday.
The Cincinnati Reds have dealt with injury concerns throughout the 2026 season and they are also currently on a seven-game losing streak. However, they shared some good news on Friday. The Reds announced that starting pitcher Nick Lodolo has been activated from the 15-day injured list. Right-handed pitcher Jose Franco was optioned to Triple-A in a corresponding move.
Lodolo, 28, has been battling a blister on his left finger. The southpaw has yet to throw a pitch in an MLB game this season, but that will change soon.
Lodolo is coming off a breakout 2025 campaign that saw him pitch to a 3.33 ERA across 29 outings. He struck out 156 hitters along the way. It was a big season for a pitcher that had always featured potential. He put everything together a season ago and enjoyed a strong overall campaign.
It will be interesting to see how Lodolo performs following his return from injury. He may need some time to adjust to pitching in the big leagues once again. Either way, Cincinnati is certainly looking forward to his return to the mound.
Reds Dealing With Injuries, Losing Streak
Cincinnati has dealt with injuries all season long. Hunter Greene has not pitched yet this season as he recovers from an elbow injury. He could return in July.
Meanwhile, slugger Eugenio Suarez suffered an injury earlier in the 2026 season. He is continuing to recover from the injury.
Additionally, the Reds are now 20-18 and in last place in the National League Central standings after dropping seven consecutive contests. They were swept by the Pittsburgh Pirates in a three-game series last weekend and swept once again this past week in a four-game series by the Chicago Cubs.
Cincinnati is hoping to get back on track soon. Perhaps Nick Lodolo's return from injury will give the ball club a necessary boost moving forward.
Reds Return Home
The Reds' road trip clearly did not go according to plan. They are hoping to turn in a better overall performance back in Cincinnati.
On Friday, the Reds are set to begin a three-game series against the Houston Astros. Cincinnati will then host the Washington Nationals for three games next week. The six-game homestand should provide the Reds with an opportunity to get back on track.
First pitch for the Astros and Reds game on Friday night is scheduled for 6:10 PM EST in Cincinnati.