It’s no secret that Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagán has struggled to open the 2026 season. After being re-signed to a two-year, $20 million contract in the offseason to provide stability to the bullpen, he has instead provided early uncertainty.
The 34-year-old has struggled to start the season and is sporting a 13.50 ERA through three appearances. He already has one blown save, a far cry from his stellar 2025 campaign in which he recorded a career-high 32 saves and an ERA under three.
The home run problem that has plagued Pagán throughout his career showed up right away this year, with two long balls already allowed after he gave up just 10 all of last season.
Since he debuted in 2017, Emilio Pagán has allowed 87 home runs. That’s 21 (!) more than any other reliever in that time, according to Matt Wilkes.
Although it is too early to accurately predict Pagán’s trajectory, it has already become a significant concern for Cincinnati, with its bullpen still not at full strength.
If the Reds’ veteran closer continues to struggle shutting the door on opposing teams, Cincinnati may have no choice but to turn to one of their more reliable bullpen arms: Tony Santillan.
Santillan Could be Viable Alternative