Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Rhett Lowder, Cincinnati Reds RHP, exited his start on May 7, 2026 against the Chicago Cubs in the 4th inning due to right shoulder discomfort. He walked back-to-back batters and felt clicking in his AC joint. MRI showed no structural damage, but he received a cortisone injection. The Reds placed him on the 15-day IL on May 13 as a precautionary measure. Manager Terry Francona emphasized the team's intent to manage Lowder carefully given his injury history (missed all of 2025 with forearm and oblique issues). Lowder had a 5.09 ERA in 6 starts (35.1 IP) before the injury, with a 1.39 WHIP and 26:14 K:BB ratio. This is part of a broader pitching crisis for Cincinnati, which also lost Brandon Williamson and Hunter Greene.
Strengths
- + No structural damage confirmed by MRI
- + Manager taking cautious, preventative approach to protect long-term health
- + Lowder allowed to continue throwing during recovery
- + Strong 2024 debut with 1.17 ERA in 30.2 IP
- + Young talent (24 years old) with high ceiling
- + Team has depth to cover his absence
Injury Status: IL-15 -- Right shoulder discomfort with AC joint clicking. MRI revealed no structural damage. Received cortisone injection. Placed on 15-day IL as precautionary measure. Will continue throwing off mound during recovery.
About
Rhett Lowder is a sp for the Cincinnati Reds.
Player Overview
SP
Cincinnati Reds
Recent News
Reds Designate P.J. Higgins For Assignment
May 13, 2026
Reds placed RHP Rhett Lowder on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder pain.
May 13, 2026
Reds Designate P.J. Higgins For Assignment
May 13, 2026
Reds signed RHP Chris Paddack to a one-year contract.
May 13, 2026
Rhett Lowder: Move to IL made official
May 13, 2026