Rhett Lowder Shines as Reds Defeat Rangers 2-0

Rookie pitcher Rhett Lowder delivers another dominant performance, leading the Reds to a series win over the Rangers.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 1:38am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Cincinnati Reds defeated the Texas Rangers 2-0 behind a stellar outing from rookie pitcher Rhett Lowder. Lowder pitched six shutout innings, allowing just three hits and two walks while striking out four. The Reds jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning on back-to-back-to-back singles from Matt McLain, Elly De La Cruz, and Sal Stewart. The Reds bullpen closed out the game, with Graham Ashcraft, Tony Santillan, and Emilio Pagan combining for three scoreless innings to secure the victory.

Why it matters

Lowder's performance continues to cement his status as a rising star in the Reds' rotation, providing hope for the team's future. The win also gives the Reds the series victory over the Rangers, an important early-season accomplishment as they look to build momentum in the NL Central.

The details

Rookie pitcher Rhett Lowder was dominant for the Reds, keeping the Rangers off the scoreboard for six innings. He struck out four batters and threw first-pitch strikes to 17 of the 23 batters he faced. The Reds jumped out to an early 2-0 lead in the first inning on a string of three straight singles from Matt McLain, Elly De La Cruz, and Sal Stewart. De La Cruz showcased his top-end speed by scoring from first base on Stewart's hit. The Reds bullpen then closed out the game, with Graham Ashcraft, Tony Santillan, and Emilio Pagan combining for three scoreless innings to secure the victory.

  • The Reds and Rangers faced off on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
  • Rhett Lowder pitched six shutout innings for the Reds.

The players

Rhett Lowder

A rookie pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who has emerged as a rising star in their rotation.

Elly De La Cruz

A talented young infielder for the Cincinnati Reds who showcased his top-end speed by scoring from first base on a single.

Sal Stewart

A Reds outfielder who drove in the team's second run with a single in the first inning.

Kumar Rocker

The Texas Rangers pitcher who struggled against the Reds, allowing two runs in the first inning.

Emilio Pagan

The Reds closer who recorded the save, despite some late-inning drama.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Reds will look to continue their strong start to the season as they face the Rangers again on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

The takeaway

Rhett Lowder's dominant performance and the Reds' balanced offensive attack led to an important series win over the Rangers, further establishing the Reds as a team to watch in the NL Central.