Ranking Reds closer options after Emilio Pagán's surprising exit

Emilio Pagán surprisingly declined his player-option for the 2027 season, and chose instead to enter the free agent market. While it wouldn't be shocking at all to see Pagán reunite with the Cincinnati Reds on a new deal, there are plenty of internal options to take over as the team's closer next season.

After landing on the injured list with a hamstring strain in early-May, Pagán returned in July and was locked in over the final three months of the season. He went 3-0 with a 1.88 ERA, 3.38 FIP, and 19 saves over his final 30 appearances last season while also striking out over 30% of the batters he faced during that span.

Though that type of production is not easy to duplicate, the Reds could replace Pagán with someone already in the organization, and reinvest their $10 million savings into another area of the roster. Who would be the most likely player to replace Pagán as the team's closer in 2027?

Ranking Reds closer alternatives following Emilio Pagán's surprising decision

5. Connor Phillips, Reds right-handed pitcher

The arm talent is there, but the command is not. Connor Phillips had a 20-game stretch in 2025 when it looked as if he'd finally figured things out. He posted a 1.80 ERA and 3.14 FIP to close out the season, and most Reds fans assumed he have a high-leverage role this year. But that hope evaporated quickly. He was optioned to the minor leagues in late-May and made two late-season appearances with uninspiring results.

4. Tejay Antone, Reds right-handed pitcher

Tejay Antone is an inspiration. He returned from his third Tommy John surgery last season and surpassed every expectation imaginable. But such a track record of injuries makes it difficult to consider him for such a meaningful role in the bullpen. Antone will receive a raise through arbitration this offseason, and should slide into a high-leverage role in 2027. But asking him to take the ball in the ninth on a nightly basis could be a mistake.

3. Luis Mey, Reds right-handed pitcher

Luis Mey has some control issues similar to Phillips, but he also possesses a nearly un-hittable sinker. The hard-throwing righty gets plenty of swing and miss, and also induced a lot of ground balls in 2026. But in order for Mey to take the next step, he has to locate his secondary pitches. If he can do that, he could become an effective weapon at the backend of the bullpen in 2027.

2. Tony Santillan, Reds right-handed pitcher

Tony Santillan had a rough showing in 2026 that ended with a trip to the IL, and that's why he's No. 2 on this list and not No. 1. The hulking right-hander lost the zip on his fastball last season, and had two separate stints on the IL. A fully rested version of Santillan could be in line for bounce back in 2027, but for now, let's consider him the setup man.

1. Graham Ashcraft, Reds right-handed pitcher

If Pagán isn't re-signed Graham Ashcraft would likely be anointed as the Reds' closer. He battled injuries of his own last season, but his cutter-slider combo is diabolical. Ashcraft creates plenty of weak contact and an ample number of ground balls. The walks were a big concern in 2026, but if he can get that under control, he could be closing out games in the ninth next season.

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