BREAKING: Cincinnati Reds pitcher Nick Lodolo delivered a sensational performance by striking out 12 batters before leaving the game due to a groin injury on Thursday. This dominating display was pivotal in the Reds’ 2-1 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates and brings them within a half-game of the New York Mets for the final National League wild card spot.
Lodolo exited the game with one out in the seventh inning, an action taken for precautionary reasons, according to team officials. The left-hander had a stellar outing, allowing only two hits and one walk while not conceding any runs. His impressive tally of strikeouts matched his career high, previously achieved against the Philadelphia Phillies on April 8, 2023, marking his seventh game of double-digit strikeouts this season.
The Reds’ victory was secured by right fielder Noelvi Marte, who made a spectacular catch to rob Bryan Reynolds of a home run, recording the final two outs of the game. With this win, Lodolo improves to 9-8 for the season, further solidifying Cincinnati’s playoff ambitions.
This victory is crucial as the Reds now hold the tiebreaker over the Mets (currently 81-77), who are set to face the Chicago Cubs later today. The Reds also have an advantage over the Arizona Diamondbacks (currently 80-78) who are up against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Fans are left anxiously awaiting updates on Lodolo’s condition as the Reds push for a playoff position. The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated as every game counts in the final stretch of the season. Stay tuned for more developments as the MLB playoff race heats up.
