Inside The Reds

“A Light Bulb Went Off” - Reds Reliever Emilio Pagán Breaks Down His Offseason Epiphany

Pagan has eight saves on the season.

Greg Kuffner

Apr 26, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Emilio Pagan (15) delivers a pitch in the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Apr 26, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Emilio Pagan (15) delivers a pitch in the ninth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images / Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
In this story:

Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagan has had a big bounce-back season and has taken over the closer role. Pagan is tied for sixth in Major League Baseball with eight games and has an ERA of 2.51.

Pagan joined MLB Network to discuss his mindset, when he knew he was the closer, and so much more.

When it was announced that Alexis Diaz would miss the start of the season due to injury, Reds manager Terry Francona said they would use a closer-by-committee approach. After Ian Giabut blew a save on Opening Day, Pagan got a chance and took advantage.

"The first thing I told Tito was I want to see how good I can get at this game," Pagan said. "Whatever happens after that happens. I felt like I was in a good spot physically and my delivery felt good. I was excited to get the ball rolling."

You can watch Pagan's full interview on MLB Network below:

Make sure you bookmark Cincinnati Reds Talk for the latest news, exclusive interviews, and daily coverage of the Cincinnati Reds!

You May Also Like:

MLB Insider Makes Bold Declaration Following Hunter Greene's Latest Start for Reds

Reds' Ace Hunter Greene Showcases Leadership With Support of Ian Gibaut 

Report: Reds' Top Prospect Chase Burns to Start Season in Dayton

Cincinnati Reds Ace Hunter Greene Being Disrespected By National Media Ahead of 2025 Regular Season

Watch: Ranking Cincinnati Reds’ Most Important Players Ahead of 2025 MLB Regular Season

Terry Francona Explains Why He Decided to Return to Baseball and Manage the Cincinnati Reds in 2025

Cincinnati Reds Second Baseman Matt McLain Made BIG Change That Could Impact His Future With the Club

Cincinnati Reds Right Hander Brady Singer Has Added a New Pitch to His Arsenal This Offseason

Cincinnati Reds Catcher Tyler Stephenson Expected to Miss Start of 2025 Regular Season With Oblique Injury

Cincinnati Reds Make Flurry of Roster Moves With Opening Day Looming

Look: Cincinnati Reds May Be Getting New Uniforms for 2025 Regular Season

Great American Ballpark Has Been Disrespected By National Media

Great American Ballpark Ranked Among MLB’s WORST Stadiums Ahead of 2025 MLB Season

Cincinnati Reds Release Tribute Video Honoring Pete Rose Following His Death

Pete Rose Shared POWERFUL Thoughts on Possible Hall of Fame Induction Before He Died

-----

Follow Cincinnati Reds on SI on Twitter/X: @RedsTalkSI

Like Our Facebook Page

Subscribe and follow the ONLY Daily Reds Podcast

Follow on Instagram

Published
Greg Kuffner
GREG KUFFNER

Greg Kuffner a contributor to Reds On SI. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati and worked for the Sports Information Department during his time as a student. He follows all things Reds year round, including the minor league system.

Home/News