The Cincinnati Reds may feature one of the most underrated starting rotations in MLB. With Hunter Greene, Andrew Abbott, Brady Singer and Nick Lodolo all in the rotation, Cincinnati's pitching is set to lead the way this year. However, the Reds' No. 5 rotation spot has more uncertainty.

Chase Burns is a candidate to earn the role. However, Rhett Lowder is also in the conversation. MLB.com recently attempted to predict every teams' rotation and lineup, and the website placed Lowder as Cincinnati's No. 5 starter for 2026. 

A number of different pitchers could realistically end up winning the No. 5 rotation spot in Cincinnati. Lowder is among the favorites, though.

A 23-year-old right-hander, Lowder was selected by the Reds in the first round of the 2023 MLB Draft. He was the Reds' No. 5 overall prospect in 2025.

Overall, Lowder has appeared in four total big league games -- something he did in 2024. He turned in an impressive 1.17 ERA across 30.2 innings on the mound.

An injury limited Lowder in 2025. He ultimately appeared in five minor league games last season, allowing 11 earned runs in 9.1 innings of work. It was an overall challenging season for Lowder from both a performance and injury standpoint, but there is reason to believe he can still become a star at the big league level.

The right-handed hurler throws a fastball, slider and changeup. He throws fairly hard, as his fastball often sits in the mid-90s. Lowder's breaking pitches are also quite reliable. His command of the strike zone is what stands out, as Lowder is known for his control. 

Many young pitchers struggle in this department. Lowder's ability to throw strikes will factor into Cincinnati's No. 5 rotation spot decision. With that being said, Lowder will still need to perform at a high level this spring. Nothing will be guaranteed when it comes to the final rotation spot in Cincinnati. 

Regardless, Reds fans can feel confident about the overall pitching staff. The team made a competitive run in 2025, and it would not be surprising to see them be even better this year. The pitching is good and the offense received a pivotal boost with the Eugenio Suarez signing.

And if Rhett Lowder makes the ball club and pitches up to his full potential, the team will see yet another important boost in 2026.