Particle.news
Download on the App Store
11 ARTICLES
·
2d ago

Reds Bring Back Closer Emilio Pagán on Reported Two-Year, $20 Million Deal

The move preserves late-inning continuity following his 32-save breakout in 2025.

Image
Image
Jul 9, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Emilio Pagan (15) during the ninth inning against the Miami Marlins at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images.
Image

Overview

  • Multiple outlets report the agreement includes a player opt-out after the 2026 season and remains pending a physical and official team announcement.
  • Pagán, 34, delivered a career year in 2025 with a 2.88 ERA, 32 saves and a 0.92 WHIP in 70 appearances after taking over when Alexis Díaz was injured.
  • Analysts credit a sharper splitter and increased chase rate as key drivers of his resurgence, with opponents hitting .121 against the pitch.
  • The deal is viewed as relatively modest compared with recent closer contracts for Devin Williams, Ryan Helsley and Raisel Iglesias, and it gives Pagán future flexibility via the opt-out.
  • Pagán said he is “super excited to be back,” and the signing is expected to be finalized after routine medicals as Cincinnati continues to assess further bullpen additions.