Pagán, Suárez headline trio of Reds to enter free agency

Emilio Pagán, Eugenio Suárez, and Pierce Johnson are entering free agency after their contract options were declined. Pagán declined his $10 million player option, leaving the Cincinnati Reds in search of a new closer. Meanwhile, the Reds declined their 2027 mutual options for third baseman Suárez and right-handed reliever Johnson, allowing all three players to hit the open market.

Pagán posted a 3.38 ERA with 25 saves in 2026, finishing the year by converting 19 consecutive save opportunities after returning from a hamstring injury. Suárez hit 26 home runs with a .212 batting average in 125 games, while Johnson recorded a 4.62 ERA across 56 relief appearances. All three veterans become eligible to negotiate with any Major League Baseball team starting Monday.