Reds’ Reliever Emilio Pagan Wanted the Ball With the Game on the Line: He Delivered

Pagan nailed down his first save of the season.

Sep 25, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Reds relief pitcher Emilio Pagan (15) reacts in the eighth inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images / David Richard-Imagn Images

After Reds' manager Terry Francona went with Ian Gibaut in the ninth inning on Opening Day, he chose Emilio Pagan to hold a 3-2 lead in the ninth on Saturday afternoon.

The 33-year-old veteran didn't disappoint, working a quick 1-2-3 innings and needing just 12 pitches to get through the ninth.

"I expected it to be me," Pagan told Jim Day postgame. "I threw the ball really well on Opening Day. I was really hoping for the opportunity."

The save was Pagan's 34th of his career and his second save since signing with Cincinnati.

When asked what made Pagan have such a clean inning on Saturday, he pointed to his command.

"Just commanding the ball. If I throw strikes with my fastball, I feel like I can get anybody in the world out. I've always felt that way and it's kind of the way I got to the big leagues. I am super confident up there. If I am throwing strikes, I like my chances."

After Saturday's performance, it seems Pagan will slide into the closer role, at least until Alexis Diaz returns from the injured list. He embraces the opportunity to close out games.

"I like being the guy with the ball in my hand with the game on the line," Pagan continued. "We had a good day at work. Let's go finish the game and get the win. I really enjoy that role. Obviously, we have an All-Star closer in Alexis Diaz, he is going to be coming back soon and help us a lot, but any chance I get to help us in the ninth inning, I am going to cherish it for sure."

After the blown save on Thursday, the Reds needed someone to step up on Saturday. Pagan did just that.

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