Reds Pitcher Rhett Lowder Matches Valenzuela's Historic Feat

24-year-old Lowder breaks Reds record with 1.30 career ERA through 8 starts

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:36pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the dynamic motion and power of a baseball pitcher on the mound, representing the remarkable performance of Rhett Lowder.A young ace's historic rise: Rhett Lowder's record-breaking start ignites excitement for the Reds' future.Cincinnati Today

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Rhett Lowder, 24, has etched his name into the history books by lowering his career ERA to 1.30 through his first 8 starts, a new franchise record. Lowder has also matched a feat previously achieved only by legendary pitcher Fernando Valenzuela, recording the most scoreless starts of at least 5 innings through a pitcher's first 8 career starts since 1900.

Why it matters

Lowder's historic start to the 2026 season showcases the rise of a young ace, as he continues to push the boundaries and rewrite the record books for the storied Reds franchise. His maturity, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure at such a young age are rare qualities that have Reds fans and MLB observers excited about his future potential.

The details

In his second start of the 2026 season, Lowder held the Texas Rangers to just 3 two-out singles, striking out 4 and retiring 13 of the last 15 batters he faced. His stellar outing lowered his career ERA to 1.30, a new Reds franchise record since the earned run became an official statistic in 1913. Lowder has now matched Fernando Valenzuela's record for the most scoreless starts of at least 5 innings through a pitcher's first 8 career starts since 1900.

  • Lowder made his MLB debut in 2024, posting a 1.17 ERA in 6 starts.
  • Lowder missed the entire 2025 season due to a forearm strain and oblique injury.
  • Lowder set the Reds franchise record for lowest career ERA through 8 starts on April 12, 2026.

The players

Rhett Lowder

A 24-year-old pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who has broken the franchise record for lowest career ERA through 8 starts and matched a historic feat set by Fernando Valenzuela.

Fernando Valenzuela

A legendary MLB pitcher who won the Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year in 1981, and previously held the record for most scoreless starts of at least 5 innings through a pitcher's first 8 career starts since 1900.

Terry Francona

The manager of the Cincinnati Reds, who praised Lowder's maturity and composure on the mound.

Jose Trevino

The catcher for the Cincinnati Reds, who highlighted Lowder's command, versatility, and veteran-like approach to pitching.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He's a pretty mature kid.”

— Terry Francona, Cincinnati Reds Manager

“That's pretty cool, but I just want to keep going and keep winning.”

— Rhett Lowder

What’s next

Lowder's next start will be closely watched as he looks to continue his historic run and help the Reds climb the standings in the NL Central.

The takeaway

Rhett Lowder's remarkable start to the 2026 season, highlighted by his record-breaking ERA and matching a historic feat set by Fernando Valenzuela, showcases the rise of a young ace who possesses the maturity, consistency, and talent to become a dominant force in the MLB for years to come.