A player on the Cincinnati Reds accomplished a feat not seen in over a century.
The Cincinnati Reds may have found a long-term answer in their starting rotation, and Rhett Lowder is already making history early in his MLB career.
With injuries creating opportunities on the pitching staff, Lowder has stepped in and delivered at a level few could have expected. The 24-year-old right-hander has not only stabilized the rotation but has also etched his name into the franchise record books in the process.
“Rhett Lowder has made some history: 🔴 1.30 ERA across his first 8 career starts, the lowest mark by a Red since 1913. 🔴 His 1.30 ERA is also the fifth-lowest mark by any MLB pitcher through their first 8 career starts since 1961.,” the Reds wrote on X.
It is a remarkable achievement for Lowder, especially considering the circumstances that led to his opportunity. Lowder, the seventh overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft out of Wake Forest, was once viewed as one of the top arms in Cincinnati’s farm system.
Lowder made his MLB debut in 2024 and immediately impressed, posting a 1.17 ERA across six starts. However, his momentum was halted in 2025 when injuries derailed his season. What began as right elbow soreness eventually turned into a more serious setback, including a severe left oblique strain that caused him to miss the entire year.
Now healthy, Lowder has returned with even more confidence and command, showing the same dominance that made him a top draft selection. His early dominance in 2026 has come at a crucial time for the Reds, who are currently without key starters Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo due to injuries.
Rather than simply filling a temporary role, Lowder is making a strong case to remain in the rotation long-term. His ability to limit runs, control the strike zone and handle big-league lineups has given Cincinnati stability during a period of uncertainty.
Lowder’s emergence speaks to the strength of the Reds’ player development system. Developing pitching has long been a focus for the organization, and Lowder appears to be the latest example of that success.
As the Reds look to build on last season’s playoff appearance and return to October for a second straight year, contributions like this will be critical.
While it is still early in his career, the history he has already made suggests Lowder could be a foundational piece for years to come. If he continues on this trajectory, his impact on Cincinnati’s future may only be beginning.