Cincinnati Reds right-hander Rhett Lowder is back in the starting rotation with momentum after two strong outings. The 23-year-old had a rocky start on July 10 at Coors Field, surrendering 8 earned runs on 11 hits in just 2.1 innings against the Colorado Rockies. That performance briefly raised questions about his place in the team's plan.
But in his next two starts, Lowder has looked more like the pitcher the Reds believe in. He tossed 11 innings, allowing only 4 earned runs with 9 strikeouts and just 2 walks across those outings. He's limited opponents to 6 hits during that stretch, showing off command of four pitches and a strong ability to disrupt hitters’ timing.
On Wednesday in Great American Ball Park, Lowder will try to continue his resurgence. A second win would be the team's fifth in six series since the All Star break, underlining the decision to keep most of the roster intact around the trade deadline.
Facing off against him is Athletics lefty Jacob Lopez, a matchup that sets up a clear advantage for the Reds' lineup. Only JJ Bleday is a lefty in the starting nine, so rookie Hector Rodriguez will sit this one out for now.
What's next for the Reds
The Reds will look to continue their late-season momentum against a team they've played tough against.