Reds Pitcher Nick Lodolo Battles Persistent Blister

Lodolo's recurring finger blister has become a frustrating challenge for the young pitcher and the Cincinnati Reds.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:14am

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An extreme close-up of a baseball pitcher's throwing motion, with vibrant neon colors and rapid brushstrokes creating an abstract, expressionist depiction of the dynamic movement and energy of the pitch.A painting that captures the raw energy and determination of a pitcher battling through a persistent injury, as the Cincinnati Reds search for a solution to Nick Lodolo's blister woes.Cincinnati Today

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Nick Lodolo, 28, has been dealing with a persistent blister on his left index finger that has plagued him since his college days. The blister, which forms on the pad of his finger and is exacerbated by the callus on his fastball grip, has caused him discomfort and disrupted his 2025 season, which was shaping up to be a career-best year. Lodolo's absence leaves a hole in the Reds' rotation, and the team is now relying on younger starters to fill the void as they search for a solution to Lodolo's ongoing blister issue.

Why it matters

Lodolo's blister battle is not just a personal struggle, but one that has significant implications for the Cincinnati Reds. As a key member of the team's rotation, Lodolo's absence leaves a void that the Reds must fill, putting additional pressure on their younger pitchers. The search for a solution to Lodolo's recurring blister problem has become a priority for the team, as they aim to get their talented left-hander back on the mound and contributing to their success.

The details

Lodolo's blister forms on the pad of his left index finger, causing him discomfort when throwing his slider. The issue is exacerbated by the callus that develops on the tip of his finger from gripping his fastball. Despite trying various remedies and experimentation, Lodolo has been unable to find a lasting solution to the problem, which has plagued him since his college days. The Reds are committed to finding a way to manage the blister and get Lodolo back on the field, but the mental toll of the recurring issue has also been a challenge for the young pitcher.

  • Lodolo has been dealing with the blister issue since his college days.
  • In the 2025 season, Lodolo had a 9-8 record and a 3.33 ERA in 29 games before the blister issue sidelined him.

The players

Nick Lodolo

A 28-year-old left-handed pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who has been dealing with a persistent blister on his left index finger since his college days.

Terry Francona

The manager of the Cincinnati Reds, who is committed to finding a solution to Lodolo's blister issue and not stunting the young pitcher's development.

Hunter Greene

A key player for the Cincinnati Reds who is currently out with an elbow injury, further complicating the team's rotation issues.

Rhett Lowder

A young starting pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who is being called upon to fill the void left by Lodolo's absence.

Chase Burns

Another young starting pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who is being relied upon to step up in Lodolo's absence.

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What they’re saying

“We must find a solution to Nick's blister issue. It's not just a physical challenge, but a mental one as well. We're committed to supporting him and getting him back on the mound.”

— Terry Francona, Manager, Cincinnati Reds

What’s next

The Reds will continue to experiment with different remedies and strategies to help Lodolo manage his blister issue, with the goal of getting the young pitcher back on the mound and contributing to the team's success.

The takeaway

Nick Lodolo's battle with a persistent blister on his left index finger is a testament to the resilience and determination required of professional athletes. While the physical challenge is significant, the mental toll of the recurring issue has also been a major obstacle for Lodolo and the Reds. The team's commitment to finding a solution and supporting Lodolo through this process highlights the human side of sports and the importance of addressing both physical and mental health in the pursuit of success.