Cincinnati Reds Bolster Bullpen with Pierce Johnson Signing

The Reds add veteran reliever to solidify their pitching staff for the upcoming season.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:25am

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The Cincinnati Reds have signed right-handed reliever Pierce Johnson to a multi-year contract, bolstering their bullpen ahead of the 2026 season. Johnson, a former first-round pick, has become a dependable late-inning option after a journeyman career that included a stint in Japan.

Why it matters

The Reds' bullpen was in need of reinforcement after several key relievers departed in free agency. Johnson's addition provides stability and experience to a unit that will be crucial to the team's success in the upcoming season.

The details

Johnson, 35, is coming off a strong 2025 campaign with the Atlanta Braves, posting a 3.05 ERA and 3.91 FIP across 59 innings. He relies heavily on his curveball, which he threw 72.1% of the time, complemented by a 95-96 mph four-seam fastball and an occasional cutter. The Reds will look to pitching coach Derek Johnson to maximize Pierce's skills and integrate him seamlessly into the bullpen.

  • The Reds signed Pierce Johnson in April 2026, ahead of the upcoming MLB season.

The players

Pierce Johnson

A 35-year-old right-handed reliever who has become a dependable late-inning option after a journeyman career that included a stint in Japan.

Derek Johnson

The pitching coach for the Cincinnati Reds, who will be tasked with integrating Pierce Johnson into the bullpen and maximizing his skills.

Nick Martinez

A key reliever for the Reds who is set to test free agency.

Emilio Pagan

A reliever who the Reds re-signed this offseason to provide some stability to the bullpen.

Scott Barlow

A reliever who is set to test free agency, leaving a void in the Reds' bullpen.

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What’s next

The Reds will look to integrate Pierce Johnson into their bullpen and maximize his skills under the guidance of pitching coach Derek Johnson. The team's next moves will be closely watched as they aim to strengthen their roster further ahead of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Reds' signing of Pierce Johnson is a savvy move to bolster their bullpen and provide stability to a unit that was in flux after several key departures. The team will now look to get the most out of Johnson's experience and skill set as they aim to contend in the upcoming season.