Scouting Report: Emilio Pagán

Summary

Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagán suffered a Grade 2 left hamstring strain on May 5, 2026, during the ninth inning against the Chicago Cubs. He is expected to miss 4-8 weeks (1-2 months). The injury aggravated a nagging hamstring issue that had been bothering him for approximately a month. Prior to the injury, Pagán had been struggling with a 6.43 ERA and three blown saves in nine games over 14 appearances, though he had recorded seven straight scoreless appearances earlier in the season. Despite recent performance struggles, manager Terry Francona expressed confidence in Pagán's abilities, noting his returning velocity. Pagán is a veteran leader and captain in the Reds' clubhouse, making his absence particularly impactful both on and off the field.