Nick Lodolo has perhaps been one of the most disappointing Cincinnati Reds players that we’ve had, something about the name “Nick,” perhaps. Mainly due to lack of availability, definitely not lack of talent. In 2024, Nick Lodolo did make 21 starts. The Reds need more out of him, and that’s why…well, let’s get into it. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter using the popup or form below. We’d LOVE to be the one providing you the news.
He was a hot topic in trade discussions, until…
Nick Lodolo was being sought by numerous teams, one being the Texas Rangers. The Cincinnati Reds discussed numerous packages with Chris Young aka Texas Rangers Pres of Ops/active GM, most taking place at MLB Winter Meetings. They discussed a duo of scenarios, one sending Lodolo to the Rangers for Josh Jung and conditionally receiving Jon Gray as well to fit the rotational need.
Nick Krall and Brad Meador also discussed acquiring Josh Smith from the Texas Rangers some of which would’ve been a similar deal including Nick Lodolo. Obviously, these deals never took shape, and Nick Lodolo is still with the Cincinnati Reds, and for good reason. It’s also known that the Phillies asked for Lodolo in a trade for Alec Bohm, that, like the Rangers deals, went nowhere. All of these took place with the impression of exploring a Steer trade, as well, and the Reds ended up not going through with that…wisely.
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Reasons to be bullish on Lodolo in ’25
Nick Lodolo, as mentioned above, was in several trade scenarios, and the Cincinnati Reds’ brass were very open with other teams inquiring that they would be inclined to deal him for the right package…but then, Nick showed up. Not only did he show up, he showed up way stronger; he had a great offseason in the gym.
He was hitting personal records on deadlift, which might not sound too “WhOa, ReALLy DuDe?” but it’s important because he dealt with calf & groin strains that kept him sidelined the majority of the time again in 2024. What put him out toward the end of the season was a finger blister, & a left middle finger strain some of which is said to be under control now. With some added strength, we think there’s plenty of reason to label Lodolo more durable this season as he enters his 4th season in the big leagues.
In an article with Pat Brennan in the Cincinnati Enquirer, Terry Francona said, “He’s worked hard this winter.” “He had a good offseason because he could actually do some stuff that he couldn’t do before. So, I think that’s going to help him get deeper in games, his stamina. Hopefully it keeps him healthy because if he stays on the mound he’s going to be exciting.”
Nick, himself, also mentions in that same article, when asked where he feels the best at: “Core. Legs. Arms. Truly everywhere,” Lodolo said. “Last year when I came into camp, it was kind of like we were questioning a lot of things (physically) still at that point, so this year it was good to get a full offseason. I got a lot stronger − by far the strongest I’ve ever been in my career. I’ve put myself in a better spot to be more durable, which was my big thing. So, I’m excited about that. I feel like I’m in a great spot.”
Fantasy Values In ’25
Everything states that Nick Lodolo is ready to have a comeback 2025, and if you ask us, he’s poised to be a late round grab in your fantasy leagues. As we all know, his K% stayed relevant in 2024, though he had a pretty relative disappointing season, and now add some more health and strength, he’s a safe bet to throw in your lineups. He isn’t bringing any new pitches to the ballpark for 2025, but he still has all the talent in the world, he just needs one thing – Availability.
