Emilio Pagán Declines Player Option
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- Emilio Pagán has declined his $10 million player option with the Cincinnati Reds for the 2027 season and will become a free agent unless he signs a new contract by November 2.
- The 35-year-old right-hander struggled in 2024 with injuries and a 4.50 ERA but rebounded strongly in 2025 and 2026 as the Reds' closer, posting solid save totals and improved ERA and walk rates.
- Despite some injury setbacks and a dip in strikeout rates in 2026, Pagán finished the season strong with 25 saves in 28 chances and a 3.38 ERA over 42 2/3 innings.
- Pagán’s career is marked by a relatively low ground-ball rate and inconsistent ERA performance, with five seasons over 4.00 ERA, but he has maintained strong run prevention and on-base metrics.
- By declining the option, Pagán is betting on securing a third consecutive multi-year deal, likely at or above the $10 million annual value of the option he turned down, despite some performance risks.
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