Reds Closer Pagan Expects Hamstring to Be Ready for Season

Veteran reliever says he's optimistic about recovering from injury in time for Opening Day.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 1:03am

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Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagán, who experienced hamstring tightness during spring training, says he expects to be ready for the start of the 2026 MLB season. Pagán, who recorded a career-high 32 saves last year, is undergoing treatment and is optimistic about his recovery timeline.

Why it matters

The Reds are counting on Pagán to anchor their bullpen again in 2026 after he emerged as one of the league's top closers last season. His health will be crucial to the team's postseason aspirations, as the Reds look to build on their success from the previous year.

The details

Pagán experienced tightness in his left hamstring during spring training workouts, but he says the injury is not serious and he expects to be ready for Opening Day. The veteran reliever is undergoing treatment and physical therapy to ensure a full recovery before the season begins.

  • Pagán experienced hamstring tightness during spring training in 2026.

The players

Emilio Pagán

A relief pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds who recorded a career-high 32 saves in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“It's going to be uncomfortable, but hopefully the idea with all the treatment is it's not uncomfortable for too many outings.”

— Emilio Pagán, Reds Closer

What’s next

Pagán will continue his treatment and rehabilitation program over the next few weeks to ensure he is fully healthy and ready to go for the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Reds' success in 2026 will hinge in large part on the health and performance of their All-Star closer Emilio Pagán, who is optimistic about making a full recovery from his minor hamstring injury in time for Opening Day.