In a move that solidifies the Cincinnati Reds’ bullpen heading into the 2025 season, veteran reliever Emilio Pagán has opted to exercise his $8 million player option, electing to remain with the club rather than test the waters of free agency. The decision comes on the heels of an injury-marred 2024 campaign for the 33-year-old right-hander, who is betting on a return to form in the Queen City.
Pagán, a well-traveled bullpen arm with eight years of MLB experience under his belt, joined the Reds prior to the 2024 season looking to provide stability and leadership to a young relief corps. However, his debut season in Cincinnati was derailed by a pair of injuries that limited him to just 37 relief appearances and one spot start.
An Injury-Plagued 2024
Pagán’s 2024 season got off to a promising start, as he posted a respectable 3.86 ERA through his first 16 appearances. However, a bout of right triceps tightness sidelined him for nearly three weeks in May and June. He returned for a one-inning outing against the Chicago Cubs on June 8, only to land back on the injured list with a right lat strain that would keep him out of action until mid-August.
Upon his return, Pagán struggled to find his footing, posting a 5.40 ERA over his final 21 appearances. He finished the season with a 4-5 record, a 4.50 ERA, and 44 strikeouts against 11 walks in 38 innings pitched.
A Calculated Gamble
Despite his injury-riddled season, Pagán’s decision to exercise his player option is a calculated gamble on his ability to bounce back in 2025. Had he declined the option, he would have received a $250,000 buyout and entered a crowded free-agent market for relievers.
By opting in, Pagán is assured of an $8 million payday and the opportunity to reestablish his value in a familiar environment. If he can recapture the form that made him a reliable late-inning option for the Rays, Padres, and Twins earlier in his career, he could position himself for one last significant contract before hanging up his cleats.
A Boost for the Reds’ Bullpen
For the Reds, Pagán’s decision to stay put provides a measure of stability to a bullpen that has been a work in progress in recent years. While his 2024 numbers were disappointing, his track record suggests that he is capable of bouncing back and providing valuable innings in high-leverage situations.
“We’re thrilled to have Emilio back in the fold for 2025,” said a source close to the Reds’ front office. “His veteran presence and ability to pitch in crucial spots will be invaluable as we look to take the next step as a team.”
With Pagán locked in, the Reds can turn their attention to other areas of need as they look to build on a promising 2024 season that saw them flirt with contention in the rugged NL Central. While the bullpen will undoubtedly require further reinforcements, having a proven arm like Pagán’s to lean on should give the club a bit more flexibility as they navigate the offseason.
The Road Ahead
As the Reds and Pagán look ahead to 2025, both parties will be hoping that the veteran reliever can stay healthy and recapture the form that made him a sought-after commodity earlier in his career. If he can do so, his $8 million salary will look like a bargain in a market that has become increasingly expensive for experienced bullpen arms.
For Pagán, the 2025 season represents an opportunity to prove that he still has plenty of gas left in the tank. A strong showing could set him up for one final payday as he enters the twilight of his career. For the Reds, a bounce-back campaign from their veteran reliever could be the difference between contention and disappointment in a division that promises to be as competitive as ever.
As spring training 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Emilio Pagán as he looks to write the next chapter in a career that has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations. If he can stay healthy and rediscover his best form, the Reds’ gamble on the veteran reliever just might pay off in a big way.
