Nick Lodolo Headed to Injured List to Start Season

Nick Lodolo To Open Season On Injured List

Cincinnati Reds left-hander Nick Lodolo will begin the 2025 season on the injured list as he deals with a recurring blister issue on his pitching hand, the team announced. The 27-year-old starter had been competing for a spot in the rotation during spring training but experienced the blister flare-up during one of his final Cactus League outings. Lodolo will be placed on the 15-day injured list, meaning he will miss at least the first two weeks of the regular season as the Reds look to contend in the National League Central.

The blister problem is a frustratingly familiar one for Lodolo, who has battled the same issue at various points throughout his young career. Blisters can be particularly troublesome for pitchers because they affect grip and control, and they have a tendency to reopen once initial healing occurs. The Reds medical staff will monitor his progress closely before clearing him to begin a throwing program and eventually face live hitters in a rehab assignment.

Lodolo's absence creates a significant hole in Cincinnati's starting rotation. When healthy, the former first-round pick has shown flashes of front-line potential, featuring a devastating curveball and solid command of his fastball. The Reds will need to turn to internal depth options to fill his spot in the early going, potentially giving an opportunity to a young arm from their minor league system or a long reliever already on the roster.

The timing is particularly unfortunate for a Reds team that entered the offseason with rotation depth as a known concern. Cincinnati's front office will be hoping Lodolo's stint on the injured list is a brief one, as the team cannot afford to fall behind early in a competitive division. If the blister issue lingers or becomes a chronic problem, the Reds may be forced to explore external options to shore up their pitching staff as the season progresses.