Nick Lodolo could make or break the Reds’ 2027 rotation plans

The Cincinnati Reds face significant rotation challenges heading into 2027, with Hunter Greene sidelined for the entire season following Tommy John surgery and Brady Singer likely departing in free agency. Nick Lodolo, entering the final year of his team control, has become crucial to Cincinnati's pitching plans as the projected number-two starter behind Chase Burns. Lodolo has struggled since returning from a blister injury, posting a 6.09 ERA over seven starts with a concerning 9.7% walk rate, well above his career 6.7% average. The Reds are counting on Lodolo to return to his 2022 and 2025 form, when he combined for a 3.46 ERA and 287 strikeouts across 260 innings.

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