Emilio Pagán said something after signing his new deal that Reds fans can’t ignore

The Cincinnati Reds made their first big splash of the offseason after agreeing to a two-year, $20 million deal with reliever Emilio Pagán. With their closer back in the fold, the Reds front office has strengthened the backend of their bullpen and can now address the team's lackluster lineup.

Pagán spoke with the media after agreeing to his new deal, and his words are certain to spark speculation throughout Reds Country.

“I know there’s a few things at work that would be exciting," Pagán said. "But I don’t want to speculate on anything that doesn’t involve me. I’m excited about the rest of the offseason. It sounds like there’s plenty of room to go get players that can impact our club."

Emilio Pagán hinted at the Reds next move, and it could involve Kyle Schwarber

Now for all we know Pagán could be talking about the Reds re-signing free agent slugger Miguel Andujar or trading for Houston Astros centerfielder Jake Meyers. And while adding Andujar or Meyers would certainly bolster the Reds lineup heading into next season, fans have their hearts set on something much bigger.

Kyle Schwarber signing a free-agent deal the Reds would be a dream come true for the Cincinnati faithful. After finishing 21st in both slugging percentage and home runs last season, the Reds' offense needs a boost. Schwarber could definitely provide that. Furthermore, his hometown ties make the story all the more compelling.

The biggest stumbling block, as most Reds fans are aware, is the money. Schwarber is expected to command a four-year deal worth at least $120 million. Though he's from the Cincinnati area, the Reds shouldn't expect a hometown discount. If they want Schwarber on their team, they're going to have to make a competitive offer.

Whether that's what Pagán was hinting at or not is anyone's guess, but knowing that he has a good relationship with team president Nick Krall and GM Brad Meador should give Reds fans some level of confidence heading into the MLB Winter Meetings.

Pagán's deal, even at $10 million per season, is quite the bargain. But it certainly eats into the Reds' 2026 payroll, which is expected to be roughly the same as last year's number. There are, however, some creative ways (deferred money) in which the Reds can add Schwarber's massive salary to the books without blasting past a certain threshold.

The Reds have their closer, now it's time to go get their masher. Until Schwarber signs his new deal — with the Reds or another team — the Cincinnati faithful will continue to hold out hope.