It was a tough blow for the Cincinnati Reds when they lost closer Emilio Pagán. Ditto for star shortstop Elly De La Cruz. However, the Reds got a crucial Pagán update after De La Cruz’s return to the lineup, according to MLB.com.
“Pagán (Grade 2 left hamstring train) faced live hitters for the second time on June 22, throwing 25 pitches,” MLB.com wrote. “He is expected to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Louisville on June 25.”
Pagán has appeared in 15 games this season. He has a record of 2-1 with an ugly ERA of 6.43. He surrendered 14 hits and six walks in 14 innings with 11 strikeouts. He’s a 10-year veteran who had 32 saves in 2025.
Reds trying to get healthy and make a run
It has been a trying season for the Reds. They’ve been competitive with a record of 37-40 heading into Tuesday’s games. Pagan’s absence likely has impacted things in a negative way. The Reds have had 33 save opportunities, but have closed the deal only 18 times.
Despite Pagán’s lengthy absence, he still leads the team with six saves. Tony Santillan has recorded five. No other Reds’ pitcher has more than one.
Of course, the absence of Cruz hurt even more. He has been out since May 31, and the Reds have gone 8-12 since then. For the season, De La Cruz has 12 homers and 37 RBIs along with 10 stolen bases. He has also scored 40 runs.
It’s hard to imagine the Reds making a serious run at a playoff berth. They are buried in last place in the NL Central, 10.5 games behind the front-running Brewers. Also, the Reds are the third-worst in the National League in run differential with a mark of minus-47. Only the Giants (-56) and Rockies (-89) have worse numbers.
However, with key performers getting back on the field, there’s still a little over half a season remaining. So the door isn’t completely shut for the 2026 playoff hopes.
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