CINCINNATI — Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagán has declined his $10 million player option for the 2027 season and will become a free agent, according to reports Saturday. The decision leaves Cincinnati facing an important offseason question about who will handle the ninth inning next year.
Pagán, 35, finished the 2026 season with a 5-1 record, a 3.38 ERA, and 25 saves in 28 opportunities. He appeared in 45 games, striking out 45 batters in 42? innings despite missing nearly two months with a strained left hamstring.
The veteran right-hander did not pitch between May 5 and July 3 but returned to finish the season with some of his best work. Over his final 30 appearances, Pagán posted a 1.88 ERA with 34 strikeouts in 28? innings, converting 19 save opportunities.
Pagán has spent the past three seasons with Cincinnati and became the team's primary closer in 2025, when he recorded 32 saves with a 2.88 ERA. He has collected 57 saves over the past two seasons and 90 during his 10-year major league career.
By declining the option, Pagán can negotiate with other clubs rather than return under the existing contract. The Reds could still attempt to re-sign him, although they would need to reach a new agreement to keep him in Cincinnati.
The Reds also declined their side of the mutual options on third baseman Eugenio Suárez and reliever Pierce Johnson. Suárez's option was worth $16 million, while Johnson's was worth $8 million and included a $1 million buyout.
Pagán's decision adds another item to Cincinnati's offseason plans. Whether the Reds bring him back or pursue another closer, the team must now determine how it will handle the bullpen's most important role in 2027.
