Reds Receive Encouraging Emilio Pagán Injury Update

Fortunately, the latest update on Pagán offers hope that his return could come sooner rather than later.

On Friday, the Reds' closer threw his first live batting practice session since suffering the injury. The step forward is a significant one for Pagán, who is scheduled to throw another live batting practice session Monday at Great American Ball Park. If all goes well, he could begin a rehab assignment shortly afterward.

Although Pagán's 6.43 ERA across 15 appearances this season is far from ideal, his importance to Cincinnati's bullpen is undeniable. The Reds have adopted a closer-by-committee approach to fill Pagán's absence. But the results have been underwhelming. Since May 6, Cincinnati's relievers own a 5.59 ERA. That mark ranks ahead only of the Colorado Rockies (5.89) during that span.

Nine Reds relievers, including Pagán, have recorded a save this season. Despite not pitching since May 5, Pagán still leads Cincinnati with six saves. Tony Santillan ranks second with four, but he has also blown four save opportunities. That number has only magnified the Reds' late-inning issues.

Cincinnati re-signed Pagán to a two-year, $20 million contract during the offseason. The move headlined several additions designed to fortify the bullpen. Veteran relievers Brock Burke, Caleb Ferguson, and Johnson were also brought in to provide depth and support.

However, Ferguson and Johnson have been limited to 10 and 24 appearances, respectively, due to injury. Burke has been one of the few bright spots, posting a 2.83 ERA across 35 innings in 36 appearances. His 14.9 percent walk rate, though, ranks in the fourth percentile of MLB pitchers.

Given the instability at the back end of Cincinnati's bullpen, Pagán's return cannot come soon enough.

While his return is not imminent, throwing live batting practice is a crucial step toward getting back to the major leagues. In the meantime, the Reds hope to remain within striking distance of a National League Wild Card spot until their closer is ready to return.

Cincinnati continues its series against the New York Yankees on Saturday at 1:35 pm ET.