Emilio Pagán Declines Option with Reds, Enters Free Agency

Emilio Pagán has officially declined his $10 million option for the 2027 season with the Cincinnati Reds, entering free agency in search of a multi-year deal. Despite missing nearly two months in 2026 due to a severe hamstring strain, the veteran closer finished strong, posting a 3-0 record, 1.71 ERA, 29 strikeouts, and 18 saves across 26.1 IP in the second half. Across three seasons in Cincinnati, Pagán compiled 58 saves with a 3.44 ERA over 149.1 innings pitched.