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Reds Activate Lodolo, Ashcraft Heads to IL Ahead of Ohtani Showdown
27 Aug
Summary
- Reds activate LHP Nick Lodolo from IL, send RHP Graham Ashcraft to IL
- Lodolo returns after 3+ weeks out with blister, faces Ohtani and Dodgers
- Reds hope Lodolo's return boosts playoff push despite Ashcraft's injury

As of August 27th, 2025, the Cincinnati Reds have made a significant roster move ahead of their upcoming series against the Los Angeles Dodgers and Shohei Ohtani. The team has activated left-handed pitcher Nick Lodolo from the 15-day injured list, where he had been sidelined for over three weeks due to a blister on his throwing hand.
To make room for Lodolo's return, the Reds have placed right-hander Graham Ashcraft on the 15-day injured list retroactive to August 25th, with a right forearm strain. Ashcraft's injury is expected to keep him out for at least two weeks, a blow to the Reds' rotation as they continue their push for a playoff spot.
Lodolo's return is a welcome sight for manager Terry Francona and the Reds. The young left-hander had been the team's ace in the absence of the injured Hunter Greene, and his dominant performances on the mound were a big reason why Cincinnati has remained in the thick of the NL Wild Card race. Now, with Lodolo back and ready to take on Ohtani and the Dodgers, the Reds are hoping to build momentum and make a late-season surge.
Despite the loss of Ashcraft, the Reds are excited to see what Lodolo can do in his return. If he can pick up where he left off, the Reds could make things very interesting down the final stretch of the regular season as they look to secure a playoff berth.