Reds Re-Sign Pagán to 2-Year, $20 Million Deal

Free agent reliever Emilio Pagán has agreed to a two-year, $20 million contract to return to the Cincinnati Reds, bolstering the team's bullpen after a playoff appearance last season. The deal, reported by sources familiar with the negotiations, includes an opt-out clause after the 2026 season and remains pending a physical examination.

Pagán, a 34-year-old right-hander who turns 35 in May, emerged as the Reds' primary closer during the 2025 campaign. He posted a 2-4 record with a 2.88 ERA over 68 2/3 innings in 70 appearances, converting 32 of 38 save opportunities. That total ranked second in the National League and tied for fifth in the majors. His performance featured a career-high 81 strikeouts and a 0.92 WHIP, aided by an improved splitter that generated exceptional vertical drop. Pagán stepped into the ninth-inning role early in the season after Alexis Díaz began the year on the injured list and fellow reliever Ian Gibaut faltered on Opening Day against the San Francisco Giants. Pagán secured the win in that second game by retiring the side in order. Even after Díaz returned, his own struggles persisted, leading to a trade to the Los Angeles Dodgers in May. Pagán's...