Reds fans focus on the young stars, but these veterans could be playoff X-factors

The Cincinnati Reds are back in the MLB postseason for the first time since 2013 in large part because of the huge contributions from the organization's young stars. Players like Elly De La Cruz, Hunter Greene, and Andrew Abbott — all of whom have been to the All-Star Game in recent years — have been key to the Reds' success in 2025.

But several veterans have helped steer the ship this season. Adding an experienced manager like Terry Francona certainly had a positive influence in Cincinnati's clubhouse, but the grizzled veterans have added addition leadership on the field. Which three Reds' vetertans could be X-factors during the MLB playoffs?

3 Reds veterans could be playoff X-factors

Emilio Pagán, Reds pitcher

Emilio Pagán was not supposed to be the Reds closer when the 2025 season began — that job belonged to Alexis Díaz. But the former All-Star was injured to begin the season, and when Díaz finally returned, he was a shell of his former self. As a result, he was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Pagán was anointed as the Reds closer.

Pagán has his flaws, as all closers do at some point throughout the season, but the right-hander always answers the bell, and his 32 saves this season were second only to San Diego Padres closer Robert Suarez among all NL relievers. If the Reds have a lead late, look for No. 15 to get the ball with the game on the line.

Nick Martinez, Reds pitcher

No pitcher on the Reds roster has been more versatile than Nick Martinez. After opting out of his contract last winter, Cincinnati extended a qualifying offer to the veteran hurler, and he accepted. Martinez has operated out of both the starting rotation and the bullpen this season.

It's unlikely Martinez will get a start during the MLB playoffs, but his ability to go multiple innings in relief could be key to the Reds' success or failure this October. Martinez can fill a variety of roles, and with pitching at a premium during the postseason, his versatility will be needed if Cincinnati hopes to advance.

Miguel Andujar, Reds designated hitter

The Reds traded for Miguel Andujar at the July 31 deadline because of his ability to hit left-handed pitching. As it turns out, the former Athletics' slugger can handle right-handers pretty well too. Andujar has become an essential piece of the Reds lineup over the last few weeks.

Andujar should be in the Reds starting lineup against Game 1 starter Blake Snell, and could be major reason why the Cincinnati is able to put runs on the board during the Wild Card Series — something they struggled to do during the regular season.

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