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How could Reds fill gap at closer? Here are 3 ideas

CINCINNATI -- During the two-month stretch this past season while Emilio Pagán was on the injured list with a left hamstring strain, the Reds learned how challenging it was to operate without a proven closer. Pagán declined his $10 million…

MLB Official

Published: Tuesday, 3 November 2026 at 2:28 PM

Key Things to Know

The Reds are seeking closer solutions after Emilio Pagán declined a $10 million option to enter free agency.
MLB.com suggests the Reds can look internally, explore the free-agent market, or re-sign Pagán.
External free-agent closer options include Raisel Iglesias, David Bednar, Kenley Jansen, and Pete Fairbanks.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Cincinnati Reds are exploring ways to address their closer vacancy after Emilio Pagán declined his $10 million player option for 2027 to become a free agent. MLB.com highlights that Cincinnati must strengthen its bullpen after ranking 25th in bullpen ERA with a 4.68 mark and finishing last in the National League Central with 75 wins in 2026.

MLB.com outlines three potential paths: promoting internally, signing an external free agent, or re-signing Pagán to a new contract. Internal candidates include Graham Ashcraft, Tejay Antone, and Julian Garcia, while free-agent options feature Raisel Iglesias, David Bednar, Kenley Jansen, and Pete Fairbanks.

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How could Reds fill gap at closer? Here are 3 ideas

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