Scouting Report: James Paxton
Chicago Cubs | SP
Overall
Summary
Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagán suffered a Grade 2 left hamstring strain on May 5, 2026, while throwing his first pitch in the ninth inning against the Chicago Cubs. He was placed on the 15-day injured list on May 6. Medical prognosis indicates 4-8 weeks recovery time, with expected return sometime in late June or early July. At 35 years old, Pagán was re-signed to a two-year deal after posting a career-best 32 saves in 2025 with a 2.88 ERA. He currently leads the Reds with 6 saves in 2026 but has a 6.43 ERA in 15 games. The injury occurred dramatically as he hopped off the mound in pain and had to be carted off the field.
Strengths
- Grade 2 diagnosis is less severe than feared (not a complete tear)
- Medical staff optimistic about recovery timeline
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