Cincinnati Reds Roster Moves: Claim Pitcher Roddery ...
Podcast Episode · Chatterbox Reds: Cincinnati Reds Daily Game Recaps · 07/11/2025 · 45m
podcasts.apple.comHere’s the latest on Rhett Lowder based on recent reporting up to May 2026.
Direct answer
- Rhett Lowder has been dealing with right shoulder issues in 2026, including an IL stint after shoulder discomfort and a noted injection in the AC joint. He has been progressing through throwing programs as of May 2026, with team updates suggesting a cautious return plan. Several outlets in May 2026 discussed the Reds’ management decisions around him due to injuries on the pitching staff and his current status on the injured list.[2][4]
Context and recent developments
- Injury timeline: Lowder exited a May game with right shoulder trouble, and subsequent imaging reportedly showed no structural damage, but he was placed on the 15-day IL as part of the Reds’ cautious approach to his return. Reports from May 2026 also noted that he had an AC joint injection to address his shoulder discomfort.[1][4][2]
- Return progress: The latest updates from mid-May 2026 indicated he was beginning a ramp-up throwing program, with bullpen sessions planned and potential return to facing hitters after that progression. Reds staff and manager Terry Francona were cited discussing the plan to bring Lowder back as the rotation situation evolved with injuries to other pitchers.[4][1]
Contextual notes
- Throughout 2025 and into 2026, Lowder had been viewed as a key Reds pitching prospect transitioning to the major league level, with injuries impacting his availability and development timeline.[3][5]
- Fantasy and prospect outlets in 2025 and 2026 continued to monitor his potential return timeline and rehab progression, often emphasizing a cautious, long-term recovery approach rather than a rapid return.[3]
If you’d like, I can pull the most recent official Reds injury updates or news from a specific outlet (e.g., MLB.com, team press releases) and summarize any new milestones or authorization for a bullpen session, plus provide a short timeline of key dates. I can also set up a quick, plain-language update note with the latest return window once you confirm which sources you prefer.
Citations:
- Reports on shoulder injection and IL placement in May 2026.[1][2][4]
- prior coverage on injuries and return progress context.[5][3]