Reds Shut Out Rangers Behind Lowder's Gem

Cincinnati starter Rhett Lowder and three relievers combine for a 2-0 victory over Texas.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:49am

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Rhett Lowder pitched six scoreless innings, allowing just three hits, as the Cincinnati Reds defeated the Texas Rangers 2-0 on Saturday. Lowder was supported by three Reds relievers, including Emilio Pagan who recorded the save despite a shaky ninth inning. The Reds scored both of their runs in the first inning on RBI singles from Elly De La Cruz and Sal Stewart.

Why it matters

The win gives the Reds an early-season boost as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign. Lowder's strong outing is an encouraging sign for the Reds' starting rotation, while the bullpen's ability to hold the lead will be crucial throughout the season.

The details

Lowder (1-0) was dominant, allowing just three hits and two walks while striking out four over his six innings of work. The Reds' bullpen kept the Rangers off the scoreboard until the ninth, when Pagan had to work out of a jam to secure the save. Rangers starter Kumar Rocker (0-1) took the loss, giving up two runs on six hits over five innings.

  • The game was played on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
  • Lowder's outing came in his first start of the 2026 season.

The players

Rhett Lowder

The 24-year-old Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher who threw six shutout innings in the win.

Emilio Pagan

The Reds' closer who recorded the save despite a shaky ninth inning.

Kumar Rocker

The Texas Rangers starting pitcher who took the loss, allowing two runs over five innings in his first start of the season.

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What they’re saying

“Rhett Lowder was outstanding today, setting the tone early and giving us a chance to win. Our bullpen did a great job of protecting the lead, even when things got a little dicey in the ninth.”

— David Bell, Reds Manager

What’s next

The Reds and Rangers will wrap up their three-game series on Sunday afternoon in Arlington.

The takeaway

The Reds' strong pitching performance, led by Lowder's six shutout innings, was a positive sign for a team looking to bounce back in 2026. If the Reds' rotation and bullpen can continue to deliver outings like this, they could be a team to watch in the NL Central race.