Reds Should Consider Making a Change at Closer

It's no secret that Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagán has struggled to open the 2026 season. After being re-signed to a two-year, $20 million contract in the offseason to provide stability to the bullpen, he has instead provided early uncertainty.

The 34-year-old has struggled to start the season and is sporting a 13.50 ERA through three appearances. He already has one blown save, a far cry from his stellar 2025 campaign in which he recorded a career-high 32 saves and an ERA under three.

The home run problem that has plagued Pagán throughout his career showed up right away this year, with two long balls already allowed after he gave up just 10 all of last season.

Since he debuted in 2017, Emilio Pagán has allowed 87 home runs. That's 21 (!) more than any other reliever in that time, according to Matt Wilkes.

Although it is too early to accurately predict Pagán's trajectory, it has already become a significant concern for Cincinnati, with its bullpen still not at full strength.

If the Reds' veteran closer continues to struggle shutting the door on opposing teams, Cincinnati may have no choice but to turn to one of their more reliable bullpen arms: Tony Santillan.

Santillan Could be Viable Alternative

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Tony Santillan (64) throws a pitch in the eighth inning against the Boston Red Sox. — Cincinnati Reds pitcher Tony Santillan (64) throws a pitch in the eighth inning of the MLB Interleague game between the Cincinnati Reds and the Boston Red Sox at Great American Ball Park in downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, March 29, 2026. The game was scoreless after three innings. The Reds won 3-2 to take the season-opening series from the Red Sox. | © Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Statistically, Santillan is coming off the best season of his major league career. He logged a 2.44 ERA in 80 appearances, recorded seven saves and averaged over a strikeout per inning in 2025, cementing himself as one of Cincinnati's best late-inning arms.

Although Santillan has primarily served as the Reds' setup man this season, his track record in high-leverage situations (33 holds in 2025, third-best in MLB) and continued success this year make him the most trustworthy alternative for manager Terry Francona, especially with command still being an issue for Connor Phillips.

The closer role remains Pagán's for now, but Santillan's presence ensures the Reds aren't without options should they need to make a change --- a reassuring thought as Cincinnati navigates the early season and looks to secure stability at the back end of its bullpen.

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