Jonathan India’s bold prediction will have Reds fans eager to see Nick Lodolo return
Have Reds fans forgotten how good Nick Lodolo is?
Cincinnati Reds second baseman Jonathan India / Kareem Elgazzar/The Enquirer / USA TODAY
After Noelvi Marte’s suspension and the club’s recent spate of injuries, Reds supporters are counting their lucky stars that Jonathan India is still a member of their beloved squad. Brandon Williamson, Matt McLain, and TJ Friedl will now miss the first several games of the Cincinnati Reds’ season.
India had been sidelined by an injury during the off-season. Plantar fasciitis hampered the Reds second baseman last season, and the problem persisted into spring training. India, who could frequently be found taking live batting practice with a few pitchers on the backfields, had to start their spring games later than expected.
The Reds commentator questioned India about the toughest pitcher he faced while recovering from an injury during an episode of the Jim Day Podcast. India answered without hesitation and gave the name Nick Lodolo. India declared that he thought Lodolo would win the Cy Young Award after making his declaration.
Jonathan India’s bold prediction will have Reds fans eager to see Nick Lodolo return
“He can win the Cy Young, that’s how good he is,” India continued. He has electric things if he’s well.” Lodolo’s ability to bat for more than 96 runs on the radar gun and his aggressive approach to going inside on right-handed hitters were highlighted by India.
It’s simple to overlook Lodolo’s true quality. The previous season, the left-hander only pitched in seven games before going on the injured list. Though there was optimism for a late-season comeback, Lodolo experienced an injury and didn’t take the mound again until this spring.
In his two games, Lodolo has pitched 4.2 innings, striking out five batters. Next Tuesday is a minor league spring training game, according to Charlie Goldsmith of the Cincinnati Enquirer. After that, he will go to Triple-A Louisville for a rehab assignment and then return to the active roster for his first planned start on April 10.
It’s possible that Lodolo, the southpaw, will fulfill India’s prophesy if he stays fit, which Reds supporters are hoping he will. With his arm slot, velocity, and aggressive approach to both left- and right-handed hitters, Lodolo is a strong contender to be the greatest pitcher in the Cincinnati Reds rotation.
Is Lodolo able to advance to the next level and participate in the NL Cy Young discussion this season? Whether or not Lodolo is completely healthy is the more important question. If the response to that query is in the affirmative, then the Cy Young Award is undoubtedly relevant.