Cincinnati Reds Get Positive Injury Updates on Key Players

Manager Terry Francona provided updates on Sal Stewart and Nick Lodolo's recoveries.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 4:52pm

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The Cincinnati Reds received positive injury news on two of their key players, Sal Stewart and Nick Lodolo, ahead of their matchup against the Boston Red Sox. Manager Terry Francona reported that Stewart is back in the lineup after being hit by a line drive on Opening Day, while Lodolo is progressing well from a blister injury and could make a rehab start this week.

Why it matters

The Reds are looking to bounce back after a tough start to the season, and having Stewart and Lodolo healthy and contributing will be crucial to their success. The team is also counting on Brandon Williamson, who is making his first start of the year against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The details

Sal Stewart had some swelling after being hit by a line drive on Opening Day, but Francona said he is fine and back in the lineup, batting fourth. As for Nick Lodolo, he will throw a bullpen session on Sunday, and if that goes well, he could make a rehab start on Wednesday. Lodolo had a blister injury in August of last season that kept him out for over 20 days, so this is an encouraging sign. The Reds are also looking forward to Brandon Williamson's start against the Pirates later this week. Williamson is coming off of Tommy John surgery and did not pitch in a competitive game last season, but he impressed in Spring Training and earned a spot on the Opening Day roster.

  • On Opening Day, Sal Stewart was hit by a line drive.
  • On Sunday, Nick Lodolo will throw a bullpen session.
  • If Lodolo's bullpen session goes well, he could make a rehab start on Wednesday.

The players

Terry Francona

The manager of the Cincinnati Reds.

Sal Stewart

A key player for the Cincinnati Reds who was hit by a line drive on Opening Day but is now back in the lineup.

Nick Lodolo

A pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who is recovering from a blister injury and could make a rehab start this week.

Brandon Williamson

A pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who is making his first start of the season against the Pittsburgh Pirates after impressing in Spring Training.

Garrett Crochet

The starting pitcher for the Boston Red Sox in the game against the Cincinnati Reds.

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What they’re saying

“Really pretty fortunate.”

— Terry Francona, Manager, Cincinnati Reds

What’s next

If Nick Lodolo's bullpen session on Sunday goes well, he could make a rehab start on Wednesday.

The takeaway

The Reds are getting key players back from injury at an important time, which should help them bounce back after a tough start to the season. The team is also counting on young pitchers like Brandon Williamson to step up and contribute as they look to compete in the NL Central.