Emilio Pagán Exercises $8 Million Option with Reds

Right-hander Emilio Pagán has exercised his $8 million player option for the 2025 season, opting to stay with the Cincinnati Reds instead of becoming a free agent. Pagán had a challenging 2024 season, posting a 4.50 ERA in 38 innings after dealing with significant injuries, including a lat strain that sidelined him for two and a half months. His performance in the latter part of the season showed some improvement, but his overall numbers were less than stellar, making it unlikely he would command a similar salary on the free-agent market. Additionally, catcher Austin Wynns has declined an outright assignment to Triple-A Louisville and has chosen to pursue free agency. Pagán's return is seen as a move to bolster the Reds' bullpen, where he may fill a high-leverage role. His decision reflects both the challenges of the previous season and the financial realities of the current market.