Emilio Pagan Lands Surprising $11 Million Deal With AL Contender, Leaving Reds Seeking Former Closer’s Replacement

Pagan moves to Detroit

MLB insider Jon Heyman reported that Pagan agreed to a one-year contract worth $11 million with the Tigers. He became a free agent after turning down Cincinnati’s $10 million player option.

The deal is only $1 million above what Pagan could have earned by remaining with the Reds. Although he may have sought a multiyear contract, no such agreement was reported; an option in the Detroit deal also remained unconfirmed as of 12:39 a.m. Eastern Wednesday.

Strong results in Cincinnati

Pagan was a dependable member of Cincinnati’s bullpen over the past two seasons. In 2025, he made 70 appearances, recorded 32 saves and posted a 2.88 ERA. In 2026, he had a 3.38 ERA and 25 saves across 45 appearances. A hamstring injury kept him out for nearly two months, but after returning from the injured list, he posted a 1.88 ERA and converted all 19 save chances over his final 30 appearances.

Reds face a bullpen need

Cincinnati finished 75-87 and has multiple roster questions to address this offseason. The team now needs a ninth-inning option, whether from within the organization or through free agency.

Pagan may have viewed Detroit as a stronger chance to compete in 2027, but that is speculation. It is also unknown whether the Reds offered him a deal after he declined his option, and Detroit may simply have been his best available opportunity.

Committing significant money to a reliever nearing age 36 would have involved risk for Cincinnati, which has other needs. Still, Pagan’s one-year, $11 million contract makes his departure notable.