Emilio Pagán
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2018Pacemakers5700035149.251361743126.52
2019Pacemakers4400030061.25522114993.21
2020Pacemakers63000410669.250312185174.00
2021Rampage900000013.110351212.03
2022Rampage00000000.0000000.00
2022Samurai00000000.0000000.00
2023Crushers1200000015.018871044.80
2024Crushers3400044049.04020114443.67
2025Crushers20000005.2511611.59
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 22 2025Pagan tossed a perfect inning to convert a save against St. Louis on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan entered a 4-1 contest and retired the Cardinals' 3-4-5 batters in order to finish off the win. He struck out four batters in a blown save Saturday but was immediately thrown back into the ninth inning Sunday. Pagan has converted 18 of 21 save chances this season while registering a 3.27 ERA and a 42:11 K:BB.
Jun 17 2025Pagan picked up the save in Tuesday's 6-5 win against Minnesota, allowing two walks while striking out two batters during the ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan converted on a ninth consecutive save opportunity and extended his scoreless appearance streak to six outings. He hasn't allowed a hit during that stretch, but he has now surrendered four walks over three innings in his last three appearances. He's tied for the sixth most saves in baseball, now sitting at 17-for-19 in save chances this year.
Jun 9 2025Pagan secured the save in Monday's 7-4 win over the Guardians after allowing one walk in a scoreless ninth inning. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was the 16th save of the year for Pagan, who also successfully converted his eighth consecutive save opportunity. The 34-year-old right-hander has been shaky at times when it comes to run prevention this year -- he has a 3.45 ERA on the season -- but he's more or less given the Reds stability as their closer. Pagan has gone 16-for-18 in save situations, also posting a 0.84 WHIP and 35:8 K:BB over 28.2 innings.
Jun 4 2025Pagan picked up the save in Tuesday's 4-2 win over the Brewers, striking out one in a scoreless ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan retired the first two batters he faced, but a fielding error extended the game and brought the tying run to the plate. The game would end in thrilling fashion with TJ Friedl making a catch at the wall to rob Jake Bauers of a home run. Pagan's converted seven straight save chances dating back to May 7 despite posting a 5.79 ERA in May and he's now sixth in baseball with 15 saves.
May 30 2025Pagan earned the save in Friday's 6-2 win over the Cubs, striking out one while recording the final two outs of the ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan entered with runners on second and third and needed just eight pitches to close out the game, recording a strikeout and a groundout. The 34-year-old has allowed seven runs over his last 10 appearances but has still nailed down six straight saves. On the season, he owns a 3.86 ERA, 0.90 WHIP and 30:7 K:BB across 25.2 innings while securing 14 of 16 save opportunities.
May 24 2025Pagan earned the save in Saturday's 6-4 win over the Cubs, allowing one run on two hits while striking out two in the ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan entered the ninth with a 6-3 lead and closed out the win despite surrendering a leadoff homer to Carson Kelly. The veteran has allowed runs in four of nine May appearances but has converted five straight save opportunities. He ranks third in the National League with 13 saves and owns a 3.75 ERA, 0.88 WHIP and 28:6 K:BB across 24 innings on the season.
May 18 2025Pagan allowed two hits in a scoreless inning to earn a save against Cleveland on Sunday. He struck out two batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan coughed up a leadoff double to Bo Naylor and an infield single to Jose Ramirez after entering with a 3-1 lead. Pagan escaped unscathed after striking out the last two batters he faced. He's converted 12 of his 14 save chances and four straight. Pagan now owns a 3.52 ERA with a 26:6 K:BB through 23 frames this season.
May 17 2025Pagan pitched a perfect ninth inning while striking out a batter to collect his 10th save of the season in Friday's 5-4 win over the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After giving up four runs in 1.2 innings and taking a loss against the White Sox in his previous outing, Pagan did a great job rebounding against Cleveland. He retired all three batters he faced on 16 pitches, ending the game with a six-pitch strikeout of Gabriel Arias. By collecting his 10th save, Pagan has now reached double digits for the first time since 2019.
May 14 2025Pagan (0-2) took the loss Tuesday against the White Sox, allowing four runs (three earned) on three hits and a walk while striking out one in 1.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan worked a scoreless ninth and came back out for the 10th to try and do the same. He got two quick outs to put himself in a favorable spot but couldn't quite seal the deal, as the White Sox walked, singled and homered to go up 5-1. Pagan has now given up a run in three of his last four outings and has just one save in his last five appearances. He needs one more save to reach double digits for the first time since 2019.
May 7 2025Pagan picked up the save Wednesday against Atlanta after allowing one hit in a scoreless ninth inning. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan continues to pull away as Cincinnati's clear-cut closer at the moment. The right-hander has struggled with the long ball at times -- he's yielded three homers over 17.1 innings -- but he still has a 2.65 ERA to go with a sublime 0.63 WHIP and 20:4 K:BB. Pagan has successfully converted nine of his 11 save chances in 2025, and his grip on the closer's role is strengthening while Alexis Diaz resides in the minor leagues.
Apr 17 2025Pagan was charged with a blown save in Thursday's 10-inning loss to the Mariners, allowing two runs on two hits in one inning. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was a nightmarish outing for Pagan, who was tasked with protecting a two-run lead in the ninth. The right-hander would give up a lead-off homer to Cal Raleigh before Randy Arozarena tied the game with another long ball just two pitches later. Pagan, who'd converted his previous four save chances prior to Thursday, now sports a 2.89 ERA, 0.54 WHIP and 9:1 K:BB through his first 9.1 innings this year. While Pagan should continue to serve as the Reds' primary closer in the short term, he figures to have a short leash as Alexis Diaz has delivered consecutive scoreless outings in his return from the injured list.
Apr 15 2025Reds manager Terry Francona indicated Tuesday that Pagan will continue to serve as the team's primary closer for now even after Alexis Diaz's return from the injured list, Charlie Goldsmith of the Dayton Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Francona has suggested previously that he wants Diaz to get his closer job back, but he plans to ease the reliever back into high-leverage work. Pagan holds a 1.23 ERA and has successfully converted all four of his save opportunities thus far. While Diaz should get another crack at the ninth inning if he pitches well, fantasy managers should hang on to Pagan for the time being.
Apr 12 2025Pagan turned in a perfect ninth inning to earn the save in Saturday's 5-2 win over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan now has saves in back-to-back days as he's established himself as the Reds' preferred ninth-inning option in the absence of Alexis Diaz (hamstring). The 33-year-old Pagan is now 4-for-4 in save chances while allowing two runs (one earned) on two hits through 7.1 innings to start the year.
Apr 11 2025Pagan struck out two batters in a perfect ninth inning to collect his third save of the season in Friday's 5-3 win over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Friday's outing was exactly what Pagan needed to bounce back from his last appearance Wednesday, which saw him give up a walk-off home run against the Giants. He sent Endy Rodriguez and Ke'Bryan Hayes down on strikes in five pitches each, and Jack Suwinski ended things quickly with a flyout on the first pitch he saw. Pagan is still the only reliever in the Reds' bullpen with multiple saves, though he may not get many more ninth-inning chances with Alexis Diaz (hamstring) approaching a return from the IL.
Apr 9 2025Pagan (0-1) took the loss Wednesday against the Giants after giving up a two-run home run in the 10th inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan came on to pitch the 10th inning in a 6-6 game, promptly allowing a two-run home run to Mike Yastrzemski after just two pitches as the Giants walked it off. The journeyman right-hander still holds a sharp 1.69 ERA, 0.59 WHIP and 3:1 K:BB with two saves over 5.1 innings this season, and he should continue sharing ninth-inning work alongside Tony Santillan as long as Alexis Diaz (hamstring) remains on the injured list.
Mar 31 2025Pagan was warming up in the bullpen in the bottom of the eighth inning of Sunday's loss to the Giants and appeared poised for a save chance had the Reds taken the lead, Charlie Goldsmith of the Dayton Daily News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Reds did not take the lead and Pagan did not make an appearance. However, the fact that Pagan recorded a save Saturday and was warming for a potential save Sunday suggests he is currently at the top of the team's closer hierarchy while Alexis Diaz (hamstring) is out. Tony Santillan looks to be manager Terry Francona's most trusted reliever, but Francona prefers to use Santillan "when we need to put the fire out" earlier in games.
Mar 29 2025Pagan pitched a perfect ninth inning Saturday against the Giants to get the save in a 3-2 victory. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan didn't strike out any Giants batters, and as a matter of fact the Giants only struck out once as a team. It's noteworthy that Tony Santillan pitched the seventh and Graham Ashcraft pitched the eighth to set up the save chance for Pagan.
Nov 2 2024Pagan exercised his $8 million player option for 2025 on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan was forced to sit out the first half of the season due to a lat injury, and he accumulated a 4.50 ERA across 38 innings upon returning in mid-August. Given his decline in performance, it was unlikely he'd receive an offer close to $8 million in free agency, so the 33-year-old righty will return to Cincinnati and likely fill a high-leverage role out of the bullpen.
Nov 1 2024Pagan has an $8 million option for the 2025 season that he's expected to exercise this offseason, Gordon Wittenmyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan missed three months of the season with a lat injury, but returned to action Aug. 10 and finished the campaign healthy. He wasn't as effective as usual over his 38 innings in 2024 (4.50 ERA, 1.34 WHIP), and given that he would be unlikely to receive a contract exceeding $8 million on the open market, it makes sense for him to run it back with Cincinnati for another season.
Sep 10 2024Pagan allowed two hits and a walk while striking out three over a scoreless inning to earn the save in Tuesday's 3-0 win over the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Alexis Diaz had pitched four of the previous five days, leaving this save chance up for grabs. Pagan nearly made a mess of it by loading the bases with no outs before fanning Jordan Walker, Thomas Saggese and Matt Carpenter to end the threat. Since returning from a lat injury in August, Pagan has been scored upon in just one of his 12 outings, though he gave up four runs in an inning in that misstep. He's at a 3.67 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 41:10 K:BB with one save and seven holds across 34.1 innings this year.
Aug 13 2024Pagan will open Wednesday's game against the Cardinals, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan owns a 4.22 ERA and 1.36 WHIP through 21.1 innings on the season, though he threw a scoreless inning against the Brewers on Sunday in his first game since returning from the IL. He's only made one appearance that lasted longer than one inning this year, so he'll likely only be asked to get through the Cardinals' first three batters before handing the game over Carson Spiers, who is expected to pitch in bulk relief.
Aug 10 2024Pagan (lat) was reinstated from the 60-day injured list Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After three rehab outings, Pagan travelled with the Reds on Friday for the weekend series against the Brewers. Now healthy, the 33-year-old will provide right-handed relief out of Cincinnati's bullpen. To make room for Pagan on the 26-man roster, the Reds optioned right-hander Yosver Zulueta to Triple-A Louisville.
Aug 9 2024Pagan (lat) is with the Reds for their weekend series against the Brewers, Gordon Wittenmyer of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan began his rehab assignment with Triple-A Louisville on Aug. 2, and after throwing two scoreless frames over his first two outings, he gave up two runs on two hits in one inning in his last appearance Thursday. The 33-year-old reliever travelled with the team to Milwaukee and could be activated during the weekend series. Pagan has recorded three holds across 22 major-league outings this season with a 4.43 ERA and 1.38 WHIP over 20.1 innings.
Aug 4 2024Pagan (lat) struck out one over one scoreless inning for Triple-A Louisville on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan kicked off a rehab assignment with Saturday's outing and is expected to have three to five more rehab appearances before being activated. He landed on the 15-day injured list in June then was transferred to the 60-day IL a few weeks later. Pagan is eligible to be activated Aug. 8.
Aug 2 2024Manager David Bell said Friday that Pagan (lat) will begin a rehab assignment Saturday and will require 3-to-5 outings before being activated from the injured list, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 33-year-old has been sidelined by a late strain since early June, and he should be ready to join the Reds shortly after he's first eligible to be activated Aug. 7. Pagan posted a 4.43 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 26:7 K:BB over 20.1 innings prior to landing on the 60-day IL.
Jul 14 2024Pagan (lat) began a throwing program July 2, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan's throwing progression is expected to last most of the month before he reports to a minor-league affiliate for a rehab assignment. The right-hander is on the 60-day injured list with a right lat strain and won't be eligible for activation until Aug. 7.
Jun 27 2024The Reds transferred Pagan (lat) to the 60-day injured list Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan landed on the injured list June 9 due to a strained right lat, and his move to the 60-day IL will ensure that he remains sidelined until at least early August. His 40-man roster spot will be given to Noelvi Marte, who was reinstated from his 80-game suspension Thursday.
Jun 9 2024Pagan was placed on the 15-day injured list Sunday with a right lat strain. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander returned from the injured list Thursday after he recovered from a triceps injury, but the lat strain will force him back to the injured list. According to Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer, Reds manager David Bell said Sunday that Pagan is expected to be out through at least the All-Star break.
Jun 6 2024The Reds reinstated Pagan (triceps) from the 15-day injured list Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Right triceps tightness had kept Pagan sidelined since May 19, but he made enough improvement over the past couple of weeks to make his return to the Cincinnati bullpen without the need of a rehab assignment prior to being activated. The 33-year-old righty owns a 4.19 ERA and 1.34 WHIP through 19.1 innings on the season.
Jun 5 2024Reds manager David Bell said Wednesday that Pagan (triceps) will be activated from the 15-day injured list Thursday, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He will have missed just over the minimum 15 days with a right triceps issue. Pagan has posted a 4.19 ERA, but also a 25:7 K:BB across 19.1 innings out of the Reds' bullpen in 2024.
Jun 4 2024Pagan (triceps) is not expected to be activated when eligible June 4, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Reds manager David Bell indicated Pagan might need a few more days beyond the 15-day minimum. The right-handed reliever is expected to have one more side bullpen session. Pagan was added to the injured list after experiencing right triceps soreness during a game against the Dodgers on May 19.
May 23 2024The Reds placed Pagan on the 15-day injured list prior to Thursday's game against the Padres due to right triceps tightness. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan hadn't pitched since Sunday due to the injury, and though an MRI on his arm recently came back negative, the right-hander apparently didn't respond well to playing catch Tuesday. He'll be shut down for the next two weeks while recovering from the injury, depriving the Reds of one of their middle-relief options in front of closer Alexis Diaz.
May 21 2024Pagan (triceps) will attempt to play catch Tuesday after his MRI came back negative, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan had to be lifted from an appearance against the Dodgers on Sunday, but it looks like he's avoided a serious injury. The Reds should have a better idea as to when he might be available out of the bullpen based on how Tuesday's catch session goes.
May 20 2024Pagan felt discomfort in his right triceps, which forced him to leave Sunday's game against the Dodgers, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan noted he did not feel anything until his final pitch and said it wasn't a sharp pain or a grab. The right-hander was examined by a Dodgers team doctor, who ran the reliever through some tests that left the Reds optimistic the injury is not a serious one. Pagan is expected to be seen by his own team's doctors Monday.
May 19 2024Pagan (undisclosed) was removed from his appearance in the ninth inning versus the Dodgers on Sunday, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan entered the game with two outs in the bottom of the eighth inning, ultimately escaping the frame when Teoscar Hernandez was caught stealing second. The right-hander returned for the bottom of the ninth, recording two outs before being removed with an apparent injury. More information on his status will likely be provided following Sunday's contest.
Apr 22 2024Pagan (2-1) picked up the win over the Angels on Sunday. He allowed one hit and struck out one over two scoreless innings in a 3-0 victory. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan was part of a huge effort from Cincinnati's bullpen, which fired 8.1 scoreless innings after Frankie Montas was removed when he took a comebacker of his right forearm. Pagan was the pitcher of record when the Reds scored all three runs in the bottom of the sixth. This was his first time pitching in five days, so Pagan was able to extend past his usual one-inning workload while also being efficient (22 pitches).
Apr 7 2024Pagan (1-0) picked up the win in a 9-6 comeback victory over the Mets on Saturday. He allowed one hit over a scoreless eighth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan benefitted from Cincinnati's five-run uprising in the bottom of the eighth to earn his first win of the season. It's been a rocky start for Pagan, who is expected to serve as the primary setup reliever. He's still working off the impact of giving up two runs on Opening Day and has allowed two home runs through 4.2 innings. Pagan allowed just five homers in 69.1 innings last season for Minnesota.
Mar 10 2024Pagan (sports hernia) struck out two over a perfect inning of relief Saturday in the Reds' 7-5 win over the Diamondbacks in Cactus League play. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Reds had slow played Pagan's integration into the spring pitching schedule while he needed extra time to complete his recovery from offseason sports hernia surgery, but the veteran reliever looked sharp in his Cactus League debut Saturday. Assuming he comes out of spring training unscathed following his subsequent appearances, Pagan should serve as one of the top setup arms in front of closer Alexis Diaz during the upcoming season.
Mar 6 2024Pagan (hernia) has yet to pitch in a Cactus League game, but the Reds haven't yet ruled him out for Opening Day, C. Trent Rosecrans of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Reds have four of their primary relievers not pitching in games right now -- Pagan, Sam Moll (shoulder), Alex Young (back) and Ian Gibaut (forearm).
Feb 17 2024Pagan won't be ready for the start of the Cactus League as he recovers from offseason sports hernia surgery, Charlie Goldsmith of The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Pagan will miss the first handful of spring training games, he has been throwing bullpen sessions during camp -- a good indication that he'll be able to return to game action sooner rather than later. Once he's able to get into a few Cactus League contests, Pagan's status for Opening Day should become clearer.
Nov 29 2023The Reds signed Pagan to a one-year, $8 million contract with an $8 million player option for 2025 on Wednesday, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan held a 2.99 ERA, 0.95 WHIP and 65:21 K:BB over 69.1 innings for the Twins in 2023, which was good enough to nab a multi-year pact on the open market. The 32-year-old was able to keep the home run ball in check in 2023, but it's been a major issue for him in the past. Given his new home park, that could be a problem. Pagan would appear in line for setup duties ahead of closer Alexis Diaz.
Sep 29 2023Pagan will start Saturday's game in Colorado after earning a save in Friday's 7-6 win over the Rockies, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan needed just nine pitches in an easy bottom of the ninth inning Friday to earn his first save of the season and will now turn right back around make his first career start. The 32-year-old right-hander will probably only be asked to cover the first inning Saturday for the AL Central-champion Twins.
Jul 24 2023Pagan (5-1) earned the win Sunday against the White Sox. He didn't allow a hit or walk while striking out one over a scoreless inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Since an ugly outing on June 11 where he gave up three runs and took a loss, Pagan has allowed just two runs in his last 16 innings with a 16:6 K:BB, and he's moved into higher-leverage spots as a result. His many high-profile bad outings in key spots in close games the past two seasons still likely limits his upside, however, as he may not move into a top setup role. Pagan has one of the worst Win Probably Added (WPA) metrics among relievers the last two years (-.022 this season) as a measure of his high-leverage struggles.
Jun 7 2023Pagan allowed a hit while striking out two over two scoreless innings Tuesday against the Rays. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan has now put together 8.2 consecutive scoreless innings, allowing just two hits while striking out eight in that span. His ERA is down to 3.76 with a 1.14 WHIP and 25:8 K:BB through 26.1 innings this season. The 32-year-old Pagan was moved out of a high-leverage role after a shaky start to the season, but he looks to be working his way back up the Twins' bullpen hierarchy.
Jun 1 2023Pagan (hip) allowed a hit and no walks over 2.1 scoreless innings in Thursday's 7-6 victory over the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan left Sunday's loss to Toronto with a minor muscle strain in his hip area. He needed a few days off, but he's back to full speed. He's had an up-and-down season and has continued to struggle in high-leverage spots. He'll continue to work in middle relief.
May 28 2023Pagan left Sunday's loss to Toronto with a minor muscle strain in the hip/groin area, manager Rocco Baldelli told the St. Paul Pioneer Press. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan's injury was initially thought to be an arm injury, but this sounds like a less worrisome issue. He may be able to avoid a trip to the injured list.
May 11 2023Pagan (3-0) earned the win in Thursday's 5-3 victory over San Diego. He allowed zero runs with no hits or walks while striking out one over an inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan struggled with the Twins last season, posting a 4.43 ERA and seven blown saves, and it was a mild surprise that he wasn't non-tendered. However, he's improved significantly as he's given up earned runs in just two of his 13 appearances (though he gave up six runs in 1.2 innings April 20). He has an impressive 15:3 K:BB ratio in 15.2 innings. He began the season buried in the bullpen but is starting to be used in higher leverage setup situations.
Apr 2 2023Pagan allowed one run on two hits and no walks while striking out one over one inning in Sunday's 7-4 win over Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan struggled with the Twins last season, posting a 4.43 ERA and seven blown saves, and it was a mild surprise that he wasn't non-tendered. His 2023 debut in a low-leverage spot (the Twins were up four runs in the ninth) didn't build confidence for a turnaround as he gave up a hit to his first two batters. He'll likely work in low-leverage spots until he gains the team's confidence again.
Jan 13 2023Pagan agreed to a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Twins on Friday to avoid arbitration, Darren Wolfson of Channel 5 Saint Paul reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan had an up-and-down first year in Minnesota with 4.43 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 84:26 K:BB across 63 innings. The 31-year-old should see some high-leverage chances to open 2023 but is unlikely to see regular save opportunities.
Aug 13 2022Pagan (3-6) allowed two runs (one earned) on a hit and a walk in one inning, taking the loss in extra innings Saturday versus the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was Pagan's second appearance since suffering a lat cramp last Sunday. The right-hander got through the 10th inning without trouble, but he gave up a walkoff two-run home run to Taylor Ward with no outs in the 11th. Through five appearances in August, Pagan has struggled, allowing seven runs (five earned), including two homers, while striking out five in 5.1 innings. He has a 5.23 ERA, 1.43 WHIP and 58:18 K:BB through 41.1 innings overall. While he's added nine saves and seven holds, his struggle with keeping the ball in the park (10 homers allowed) has taken him mostly out of the closer conversation.
Aug 7 2022The Twins announced Pagan was removed from his relief appearance in Sunday's game against the Blue Jays due to a right lat cramp, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. He retired two batters and allowed a base hit before exiting in the sixth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Anything lat-related is usually worrisome for a picture, but assuming Pagan is in fact dealing with nothing more serious than a cramp, he should be able to avoid a stint on the injured list. The Twins are labeling Pagan as day-to-day for the time being and should have an update on the right-hander's status in advance of Tuesday's series opener in Los Angeles against the Dodgers.
Jul 3 2022Pagan (2-3) earned the win in Saturday's 4-3 win over Baltimore, allowing no runs on no hits while striking out one and walking one over one inning of relief. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan pitched a clean ninth inning to help secure a win for the Twins. He entered the game with his team down 3-2 but picked up the win thanks to two ninth-inning Minnesota runs. This was a step in the right direction for Pagan, who pitched to an 11.42 ERA for the month of June. The good performance helped the righty reliever shave his season ERA to 5.06.
Jul 1 2022Pagan will move from the closer role to low leverage appearances until he gets back on track, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "Yeah, he's going to pitch earlier in the games and potentially when we don't have the lead and things like that," said manager Rocco Baldelli. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan had become the primary closer among a committee with the Twins amassing nine saves and a 2.45 ERA before June 13. He's struggled since June 21 with two blown saves and allowed nine runs and three walks in 3.2 innings. He was the primary culprit in four blown leads by the bullpen in the past week against Cleveland.
Jun 28 2022Pagan (1-3) took the loss in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Guardians, giving up two runs on a hit and two walks without recording an out as the Twins fell 3-2. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander entered the game to protect a 2-1 lead in the eighth inning, but Pagan walked the first two batters he faced and advanced them both on a wild pitch before Amed Rosario cashed them in with a single. It's noteworthy that Pagan wasn't held back for a potential save situation in the ninth, instead getting the call to face the top of Cleveland's order in the eighth, and given that he's allowed multiple runs in three of his last four appearances while converting just 9-of-14 save chances on the season, time could be running out on his stint as the Twins' closer.
Jun 14 2022Pagan pitched a scoreless inning against Seattle on Monday, allowing one walk and striking out two batters to earn the save. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan was tasked with preserving a one-run, ninth-inning lead. He saw the tying run move into scoring position due to a two-out walk and stolen base, but the right-hander struck out Jesse Winker to end the threat. Pagan appears to be the current favorite over Jhoan Duran for ninth-inning duties thanks to a 2.45 ERA, 1.23 WHIP and 11.9 K/9. He's blown three saves but has also successfully converted nine opportunities.
Jun 11 2022Pagan picked up his eighth save of the season Saturday against the Rays, striking out two batters while retiring the side in order in a scoreless ninth inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan was tasked with protecting a one-run lead after Jhoan Duran threw a scoreless eighth inning and never let the Rays have much of a chance, sandwiching a groundout between a pair of strikeouts. Pagan now has an 8-4 lead over Duran on the Twins' saves leaderboard. The outing lowered the right-hander's season ERA to 2.57.
Jun 6 2022Pagan (not injury related) was activated from the restricted list Monday, Brandon Warne of Access Twins reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan was unavailable for the Twins' weekend series in Toronto since he's unvaccinated, but he'll rejoin the bullpen prior to the upcoming series against the Yankees at Target Field, which begins Tuesday. The right-hander has converted just one of his last three save chances while allowing three runs in 3.1 innings over his last four relief appearances, but he should be in the mix for closing duties alongside Jhoan Duran now that Pagan is back with the team.
Jun 3 2022Pagan (not injury related) was placed on the restricted list Friday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan is apparently unvaccinated and is unable to enter Canada as the Twins take on the Blue Jays for a three-game series this weekend. The 31-year-old should be back with the team for the subsequent series against the Yankees, which begins Tuesday. Rookie Jhoan Duran should operate as Minnesota's top option for save chances in the meantime.
May 28 2022Pagan struck out the only batter he faced Friday, recording his seventh save of the season in a 10-7 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Twins were up 10-5 heading into the ninth inning, but after Yennier Cano ran into trouble, Pagan got the call to put out the fire and struck out Nicky Lopez on three pitches. Rookie Jhoan Duran continues to push for ninth-inning work, but Pagan has converted seven of nine save chances on the year with a 2.25 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 22:11 K:BB through 16 innings.
May 20 2022Pagan allowed one run on three hits in Friday's win over Kansas City. He struck out one and earned a save. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan coughed up a solo home run to Emmanual Rivera followed by a pair of two-out singles. He ended up throwing 14 of 19 pitches for strikes to secure the 6-4 win. It was the first time he's allowed an earned run since April 26 and his season ERA bumped up to 2.13. Pagan has converted six out of seven save chances with a 16:10 K:BB through 12.2 innings.
May 15 2022Pagan allowed one hit in a scoreless inning during Sunday's win over the Guardians. He struck out one and earned the save. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan gave up a two-out double to Amed Rosario but finished off a scoreless frame with just 10 pitches. The 31-year-old has now converted five out of six save chances with a 1.54 ERA this season. Pagan threw an inning in each of the last three games, so he'll likely be unavailable Monday against Oakland.
May 8 2022Pagan allowed a hit and one walk in a scoreless inning in Sunday's win over Oakland. He struck out one and earned the save. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan has now earned a save in each of his last two appearances despite allowing a combined five runners on base. He allowed a one-out single to put two Athletics on base before forcing a pair of flyouts to finish off Sunday's 4-3 win. He's now converted four out of five save chances on the year while posting a 2.08 ERA.
May 7 2022Pagan gave up a hit and walked two batters in a scoreless ninth inning Friday to record his third save of the season in a 2-1 win over the A's. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After loading the bases with one out, Pagan was able to escape the jam on a Seth Brown fielder's choice that retired Sheldon Neuse at the plate, before the right-hander fanned Chad Pinder to end the contest. Pagan has a seemingly respectable 2.35 ERA through 7.2 innings and has converted three of four save chances, but his ghastly 25.0 percent walk rate highlights just how close to disaster he's come on multiple occasions. If the veteran can't sharpen his control, it could be only a matter of time before rookie flamethrower Jhoan Duran takes over the closer role for the Twins.
Apr 26 2022Pagan blew a save opportunity after he pitched 0.2 innings, surrendering one run on a hit and two walks while striking out one in Tuesday's win over the Tigers. He did not factor into the games decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Caleb Thielbar allowed two Tigers to reach base in the top of the eighth inning, Pagan was called upon to protect the Twins' 3-1 lead with one out in the frame. He proceeded to give up a three-run homer to Javier Baez, the first batter he faced and walk two more batters before the inning was over. The blown save was Pagan's first of the season and he is now two for three in save opportunities.
Apr 22 2022Pagan earned the save after pitching a scoreless ninth inning in a 2-1 win Friday over the White Sox. He walked two, allowed a hit and struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan threw 17 of his 34 pitches for strikes and loaded the bases with one out before inducing a pop-out. After running the count full on Jake Burger, he painted the corner for a strikeout to end the game. The righty has recorded a save in consecutive games for the Twins and is the only member of the Minnesota bullpen to close out a ballgame successfully. He appears to be manager Rocco Baldelli's preferred option in save situations but has not officially been named the closer.
Apr 21 2022Pagan earned the save Thursday against the Royals after not allowing a hit during a scoreless ninth inning. He walked one and didn't record a strikeout. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan got the his first save opportunity of the season with a one-run lead after Tyler Duffey blew his second save of the season Tuesday. The veteran journeyman walked Michael Taylor to lead off the inning, but he proceeded to retire the top of the Royals lineup in order on just four pitches. Pagan notched 20 saves in 2019 with Tampa Bay, but Tuesday's outing was just third since then. For now, Pagan and Duffey appear to be in a timeshare for closing duties in Minnesota, but Pagan could earn more opportunities if Duffey continues to trend in the wrong direction.
Apr 8 2022Pagan will be part of a closer committee that could include Joe Smith, Tyler Duffey, Caleb Thielbar, Jorge Alcala and Danny Coulombe, manager Rocco Baldelli told the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "It's not a situation where we're just going to fill that role with someone and say, 'That's how it's going to work,' " Baldelli said. "We will use the quality arms in the back end of our 'pen to match up, try to put them in position to get outs." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Baldelli is likely still sorting out his bullpen after the trade of Taylor Rogers to San Diego, so he could narrow his options to finish games early in the season. Pagan figures to be one of his top options, but Baldelli has ignored traditional closer patterns in managing his bullpen. Still, if Pagan starts strong with the Twins he could get the bulk of high-leverage work.
Apr 7 2022The Twins acquired Pagan and starting pitcher Chris Paddack from the Padres on Thursday in exchange for reliever Taylor Rogers and outfielder Brent Rooker, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With Rogers moving to San Diego, the Twins will have a void at closer heading into Opening Day, and Pagan could be one of several candidates to vie for saves out of the Minnesota bullpen. Pagan, who is under club control for the next two seasons, is coming off a down 2021 campaign in which he submitted a 4.83 ERA (5.22 FIP) and surrendered a whopping 16 home runs in 63.1 innings. Keeping the ball in the yard has been an ongoing issue for Pagan throughout his career, but he's excelled at making bats miss and limiting free passes, as his lifetime 22.3 K-BB% attests. Even if the Twins aren't inclined to use Pagan in the ninth inning due to his vulnerability to the long ball, he should at least take on a key setup role for his new team.
Mar 30 2022Pagan and Robert Suarez look like the readiest options at closer for the Padres, speculates Dennis Lin of The Athletic. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This doesn't seem to be tied to any firm reporting, just Lin's expertise from being around the team this spring. Pagan has 22 career saves across five big-league seasons while Suarez most recently served as an effective closer in Japan.
Nov 30 2021Pagan agreed to a one-year, $2.3 million deal with the Padres on Tuesday to avoid arbitration, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan has struggled with the Padres over the past two seasons, but the team will give him another chance in 2022. The 30-year-old had a 4.83 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 69:18 K:BB over 63.1 innings with five blown saves and 19 holds. He could be in the high-leverage mix again next year with a strong showing in spring training.
Sep 30 2021Pagan (4-3) allowed four runs on four hits in just one-third of an inning as he took the loss against the Dodgers on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan entered to begin the bottom half of the eighth with a three-run cushion and gave it up in the blink of an eye. He allowed three solo home runs to the first four batters he faced to bring the Dodgers back to life and tie the score 9-9. He stayed in to face one more batter and allowed a double to Justin Turner before manager Jayce Tingler had finally seen enough. Turner eventually came around to score as the deciding run on a two-run blast from Corey Seager, handing Pagan a very ugly and disappointing loss. The 30-year-old now has three losses this month and sports a 4.91 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 68:18 K:BB over 62.1 innings this year.
Sep 18 2021Pagan (4-2) allowed three earned runs on two hits and a walk across one inning, taking the loss to the Cardinals on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan entered the eighth inning with a 2-0 lead. The lead quickly evaporated when he surrendered a double, a walk and a home run. The Cardinals took over with a 3-2 lead and never looked back. It was the fifth long ball Pagan allowed in his last seven innings. He has a 4.50 ERA and 1.15 WHIP with 67 punchouts over 60 innings this season.
Sep 13 2021Pagan allowed three runs on three hits, including a home run, over two-thirds of an inning against the Dodgers on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: San Diego trailed by only three runs when Pagan got the ball in the seventh inning, but four batters into his outing the deficit had doubled to six. The reliever allowed a single to Mookie Betts and a double to Max Muncy before serving up a three-run homer to Justin Turner. The long ball was the fourth surrendered by Pagan in his past five outings, and he has allowed eight earned runs over 4.2 frames over that span to push his season ERA up to 4.21.
Sep 3 2021Pagan (4-1) lost Friday's 6-3 defeat at the hands of the Astros, allowing two runs on two hits in one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Jayce Tingler selected Pagan to pitch the eighth inning of a 3-3 tie and the 30-year-old rolled to two easy outs before surrendering a hit and Kyle Tucker home run to fall in line for the loss. It's the righty's first loss all season and he still owns an above average 3.58 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 64:14 K:BB in 55.1 innings.
Aug 9 2021Pagan earned a hold against Arizona on Sunday by pitching a perfect inning during which he struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander followed Blake Snell's impressive start with a dominant inning of his own, mowing down the first two batters he faced and retiring the side in order on only 12 pitches. Pagan has held opponents scoreless in each of his past eight outings, posting a 6:1 K:BB across 7.1 innings during that span.
Jul 19 2021Pagan was tagged with a blown save Sunday against Washington as a result of surrendering three runs on four hits over one inning. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan took the mound in the bottom of the eighth inning with San Diego up by two runs. After striking out the first batter he faced, the right-handed hurler allowed three straight hits -- two of which left the yard -- as Washington reclaimed the lead. The outing marked the first time this season that Pagan has allowed more than two runs. He has a 3.72 ERA and 1.14 WHIP across 38.2 innings.
Jul 11 2021Pagan (neck) has opened July with four scoreless appearances, covering 4.1 innings while permitting two hits and two walks while striking out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan dealt with a minor neck issue toward the end of June, but it never required a trip to the injured list. After a few days off, Pagan was cleared to return to action and has immediately stepped back into a high-leverage role in the San Diego bullpen. He'll head into the All-Star break with a 3.11 ERA, four wins and 13 holds across 40 appearances.
Jul 2 2021Pagan hasn't pitched since Tuesday due to neck tightness, Jeff Sanders of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan's tight neck developed while he was sleeping recently, and he hasn't been available recently as a result. However, manager Jayce Tingler is hopeful that the right-hander could be available out of the bullpen as early as Saturday. Across his last two outings, Pagan has recorded two holds while striking out five in two perfect innings.
Jun 21 2021Pagan was credited with the hold against Cincinnati on Sunday despite allowing two runs on two hits and one walk over one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan entered in the eighth inning with the Padres protecting a 3-0 lead. He was tagged for a single and a double and walked one batter, leading to two Reds runs. The right-hander made it out of the inning with San Diego's lead down to one, and Mark Melancon closed out the contest in the ninth to secure the victory. Pagan has struggled in June, posting a 6.23 ERA across 8.2 innings. He remains one of the team's top options in high-leverage situations, however.
Jun 8 2021Pagan earned the hold against the Cubs on Monday by pitching a perfect inning and striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander faced little resistance after taking over in the eighth frame, retiring the side on 10 pitches while fanning two. Pagan has been solid in a setup role for San Diego this season, posting a 2.63 ERA, 1.04 WHIP and 31:9 K:BB across 24 innings and tallying seven holds.
May 12 2021Pagan (3-0) allowed a hit and a walk and struck out three in one inning, earning the win in Game 1 of Wednesday's doubleheader versus Colorado. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan relieved starter Yu Darvish and worked around a couple of baserunners in the fifth inning. In the sixth, Victor Caratini put San Diego ahead with a grand slam. Pagan has been effective as the primary setup man to closer Mark Melancon this year. Pagan has a 2.40 ERA, 1.40 WHIP and 21:7 K:BB along with five holds and a blown save in 17 appearances spanning 15 innings.
Mar 20 2021Pagan has a good chance to close games for the Padres this season and has been the name most often mentioned by people within the organization as a potential closer, Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Padres have several potential ninth-inning options, including Mark Melancon and Drew Pomeranz (forearm), but manager Jayce Tingler has expressed a preference for a dedicated ninth-inning arm rather than a committee. Pagan has been an elite reliever in the recent past, saving 20 games for the Rays in 2019 while backing up his 2.31 ERA with an excellent combination of a 36.0 percent strikeout rate and a 4.9 percent walk rate. His numbers fell off hard across the board last year, as he managed just a 26.4 percent strikeout rate, 10.3 percent walk rate and a 4.50 ERA, but he was pitching through pain for much of the season and eventually landed on the injured list with biceps inflammation. Healthy again this spring, Pagan appears to have a very real chance of moving to the top of the closer competition.
Mar 13 2021Pagan should have a high-leverage role with the Padres this season, but the team has yet to determine how closing duties will be handled, Bill Center of FriarWire reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan has experience closing -- he saved 20 games for Tampa Bay in 2019 -- but he was used primarily as a setup man in his first campaign with San Diego last season. With veteran closer Mark Melancon brought over in the offseason and Drew Pomeranz fresh off a dominant 2020 campaign that included a temporary ninth-inning role, Pagan does not appear to be the early favorite for save opportunities heading into 2021, though the Padres have not yet determined how the back end of the bullpen will shake out. Manager Jayce Tingler suggested earlier in the week that plans have yet to be finalized, stating, "Are we open to a committee? Open to matchups? We are. We'd love to come out of here saying this is our ninth-inning guy and move forward. This early, I'm not interested in giving anyone that title. Sometimes, the key outs are in the seventh or eighth."
Jan 15 2021Pagan and the Padres avoided arbitration with a one-year, $1.57 million deal Friday, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 29-year-old didn't produce his best work in 2020, posting a 4.50 ERA in 22 innings. The Padres will keep him around in hopes that he'll return to his 2019 form, when he produced a 2.31 ERA, a 36.0 percent strikeout rate and a 4.9 percent walk rate.
Sep 21 2020Pagan was tagged with a blown save in Sunday's win over Seattle. He pitched one inning and allowed two runs on two hits while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan's ERA sat at 7.36 after blowing a save Aug. 20, but he had subsequently recovered to notch seven straight scoreless outings covering seven innings. That streak ended Sunday, however, when Dylan Moore launched a two-run homer off Pagan in the eighth inning. The Padres ultimately pulled out an extra-inning victory, but Pagan nonetheless was tagged with his fifth blown save of the season.
Sep 10 2020Pagan (biceps) was activated from the 10-day injured list Thursday, Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He will end up missing a little under two weeks with the biceps injury, but in that time, Trevor Rosenthal appears to have taken over as the team's closer. Pagan could still get the occassional save opportunity and could vulture wins, but as long as Rosenthal is pitching well, he should remain the go-to closer.
Sep 7 2020Pagan (biceps) will face hitters Tuesday, Jeff Sanders of The San Diego Union-Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Manager Jayce Tingler said of Pagan, "He feels a lot better after being back here and getting some treatment, getting some work and doing exercises." Assuming Pagan has no setbacks after facing hitters, he is expected to be activated from the injured list when first eligible Thursday.
Sep 2 2020Pagan was placed on the 10-day injured list Wednesday with right biceps inflammation, retroactive to Aug. 31. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The right-hander last pitched Sunday and delivered a scoreless inning with two strikeouts, and it's unclear when or how he sustained the injury. Pagan will be eligible to be activated Sept. 10, but he may require additional time before rejoining the team.
Aug 23 2020Pagan tossed a clean ninth inning Sunday, earning a save in the win over Houston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After blowing his first four save chances this season, Pagan has converted two in the last three days. With Drew Pomeranz (shoulder) stashed on the injured list, the 29-year-old lefty appears to be the go-to closer in San Diego for now.
Aug 21 2020Pagan pitched a scoreless inning and allowed just one walk to earn the save in Friday's 4-3 win over the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan has been far from consistent in 2020 with four blown saves and six holds in 12 appearances. He has a 6.75 ERA and 1.42 WHIP across 12 innings. The 29-year-old Pagan is in line to see the majority of the save opportunities with Kirby Yates (elbow) and Drew Pomeranz (shoulder) sidelined.
Aug 17 2020Pagan (0-1) took the loss against Arizona on Sunday, pitching one inning and allowing three runs on two hits and one walk while striking out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan was summoned in the eighth inning to protect a two-run lead, but he couldn't get the job done, allowing a single and a walk before serving up a three-run homer to Eduardo Escobar. Pagan had been trending in the right direction with four straight scoreless outings after a rough start to the campaign, but Sunday's blowup pushed his season ERA back up to 8.31. He has registered five holds, but Pagan's inconsistency is not what the Padres expected after the 29-year-old saved 20 games and notched a 2.31 ERA along with a 0.83 WHIP with Tampa Bay last season.
Jul 31 2020Pagan suffered his second blown save of the season Thursday, pitching two-thirds of an inning and allowing two runs on two hits and a walk while striking out one batter against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Following a breakout 2019 campaign with Tampa Bay, the Padres traded for Pagan with the expectation that he would form a dominant 1-2 punch with closer Kirby Yates. Things haven't gone to plan to start the season, with both Pagan and Yates stumbling out the gate. Pagan has pitched only one clean inning in four appearances thus far, allowing a combined five earned runs on five hits and three walks over 3.2 frames. He was summoned in the eighth inning to protect a two-run lead Thursday and squandered the opportunity after allowing a single, triple, sacrifice fly and walk sandwiched around a strikeout. The Padres have a deep bullpen this season, so Pagan's setup role could be in jeopardy if he isn't able to figure things out soon.
Mar 31 2020Pagan's contract was renewed by the Padres in mid-March. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: San Diego made the decision to renew Pagan's contract after the two sides could not agree to a deal on a contract extension, per Jeff Sanders of The San Diego Union-Tribune. Consequently, Pagan will be eligible for arbitration following the 2020 season. The right-hander is expected to serve in a setup role behind Kirby Yates in his first campaign with the Padres.
Feb 8 2020Pagan was traded from the Rays to the Padres on Saturday in exchange for outfielder Manuel Margot and prospect Logan Driscoll, Josh Tolentino of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan finished 2019 as Tampa Bay's closer and went 20-for-28 in save chances with a 2.31 ERA, 0.83 WHIP and 96:13 K:BB across 70 innings, but he'll now make his way to San Diego. The 29-year-old's fantasy value will take a significant hit, as Kirby Yates established himself as one of the top closers in baseball last season with a 1.19 ERA and 41 saves for the Friars. Pagan still figures to work in a high-leverage role, but save opportunities likely will be few and far between.
Sep 24 2019Pagan was credited with his seventh hold in a win over the Red Sox on Monday, opening the ninth inning but retiring just one hitter and allowing two hits before being pulled. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan was in line for his 21st save when he entered the game with the Rays holding a 7-4 lead. However, the right-hander allowed singles to Rafael Devers and Mookie Betts to open the frame, and although he was able to get J.D. Martinez to foul out, manager Kevin Cash opted to bring in Colin Poche to slam the door. Except for a hiccup against the Red Sox in the opener of the four-game series last Friday, Pagan has been solid in September, collecting four saves, one win and Monday's hold while generating a 2.61 ERA across 10.1 innings.
Sep 20 2019Pagan blew the save after surrendering two runs on two hits while striking out one over one inning Friday against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan was called on in the top of the ninth inning with a two-run lead, but he'd give up a two-run homer to tie the ballgame on the way to his eighth blown save of the 2019 campaign. Fortunately, his team would plate the winning run two innings later. The 28-year-old has now given up three runs in his last two outings (three innings), though he owns a 2.43 ERA and 0.83 WHIP with 92 strikeouts over 66.2 innings this year.
Sep 15 2019Pagan struck out one in a perfect ninth inning Saturday to record his 20th save of the season in a 3-1 win over the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He's been impressive since the beginning of August, converting 12 of 13 save chances with a 2.29 ERA, 0.56 WHIP and 28:1 K:BB through 19.2 innings. Pagan's emergence as full-time closer has given the Rays' bullpen some structure and been a key factor in the team's push for a wild-card spot.
Sep 6 2019Pagan posted a 1-2-3 inning with one strikeout during the ninth to record his 19th save in a 5-0 victory against the Blue Jays on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 28-year-old took the mound with the bases loaded and no outs, so Pagan entered in a save situation despite also having a five-run lead. He made quick work of the Blue Jays, not letting any of his inherited runners to score in his sixth straight successful save situation. Pagan is 3-2 with a 2.19 ERA, 0.83 WHIP and 85 strikeouts in 61.2 innings this season.
Sep 4 2019Pagan fired a scoreless ninth inning during which he recorded two strikeouts to earn his 17th save in a win over the Orioles in the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pagan needed a modest 12 pitches to mow through Jonathan Villar, Mason Williams and Anthony Santander and generate his third straight scoreless effort. The 28-year-old has also converted four straight save opportunities and 10 of his last 11 overall, following a rough stretch earlier in the season.
Aug 31 2019Pagan had one strikeout and didn't allow a baserunner as he recorded the final two outs to earn the save Saturday against Cleveland.
Aug 29 2019Pagan earned the save against Houston on Thursday, pitching 2.1 innings and giving up one run on two hits while striking out three.
Aug 22 2019Pagan pitched a perfect ninth inning to earn his 14th save in a 5-2 victory against the Orioles on Thursday.
Aug 21 2019Pagan (3-2) allowed three runs on three hits and one strikeout during the ninth inning in a blown save against the Mariners on Wednesday.
Aug 14 2019Pagan earned the save against San Diego on Tuesday, striking out all four batters he faced on 17 pitches.
Aug 11 2019Pagan notched the save against Seattle on Sunday, retiring one batter in the 1-0 victory.
Aug 10 2019Pagan struck out two in a perfect inning, shutting the door on a 5-4 win over the Mariners on Saturday to earn his 11th save.
Aug 9 2019Pagan allowed a solo home run while striking out one, recording his 10th save of the season in Friday's 5-3 win over the Mariners.
Aug 3 2019Pagan allowed one hit and had one strikeout in a scoreless ninth inning to record the save Saturday against the Marlins.
Jul 31 2019Pagan allowed three hits but recorded a four-out save with one strikeout during a 6-5 victory against the Red Sox on Tuesday.
Jul 24 2019Pagan struck out two in a perfect ninth inning Wednesday to record his seventh save of the season in a 3-2 win over the Red Sox.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Pagan was charged with his sixth blown save of the season in an extra-innings loss to the White Sox on Saturday, allowing an earned run on a solo home run and recording a strikeout over two-thirds of an inning.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 14 2019Pagan struck out the lone batter he faced on the way to a save Sunday against the Orioles.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 7 2019Pagan struck out two without allowing a hit or a walk through a scoreless inning to record his fifth save of the season in a 2-1 win over the Yankees on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 2 2019Pagan struck out two and earned his fifth hold of the season as part of a perfect inning of relief Monday in the Rays' 6-3 win over the Orioles.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 22 2019Pagan recorded the final two outs Friday to record his fourth save of the season in a 5-3 win over the A's.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 12 2019Pagan (1-1) allowed three runs (two earned) on two hits over two innings in a loss to the Athletics on Tuesday. He struck out two and was also charged with his second blown save of the season.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 29 2019Pagan, who earned his third hold with two scoreless innings in which he allowed just one hit and recorded three strikeouts in a win over the Blue Jays on Tuesday, now has 15 consecutive scoreless appearances.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 14 2019Pagan pitched a scoreless seventh inning, striking out one batter to earn his second hold of the season in Tuesday's 4-0 win over the Marlins.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 22 2018Pagan owns a 2.35 ERA, .207 BAA and 14:3 K:BB across 7.2 innings over eight June appearances.The right-handed reliever has been mowing down opposing hitters at an impressive clip, as he sports a 42.4 percent strikeout rate during that stretch. Pagan had hit a rough patch prior to a late April demotion to Triple-A Nashville, but he's bounced back to generate scoreless efforts in 10 of 11 appearances since returning to the Athletics on May 18. However, his lack of hold or save opportunities does cap his fantasy utility to an extent, and his 1.37 WHIP also has room for improvement.
May 30 2018Pagan fired two perfect innings in a loss to the Rays on Tuesday, recording four strikeouts.Pagan has been a different pitcher since returning to the big-league club after a stint at Triple-A Nashville, now having fired 6.1 scoreless innings during which he's only allowed a pair of singles and recorded seven strikeouts. The 27-year-old right-hander has already lowered his ERA more than a full run (5.17 to 4.05) during that stretch, a stark departure from the seven earned runs he'd allowed over his last six appearances before being demoted May 2.
May 21 2018Pagan, who notched his first win of the season Saturday against the Blue Jays in his initial appearance since returning from Triple-A Nashville, used his fastball a season-high 86.2 percent of the time in that outing, Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports. "I've got to stick with what I do and believe that it will work out for the best more often than not: Throwing the fastball up in the zone, the slider off that, working in the split whenever I get a chance, whenever it's a good situation for it", Pagan said.The right-hander's velocity was also up slightly to the 95-96 mph range during the appearance according to pitching coach Scott Emerson, which he emphasized can make a notable difference with a "mistake pitch" such as that one. Pagan had struggled while relying less on his power pitch and more on his slider before being demoted May 2, giving up seven earned runs on 13 hits over his last six appearances. Manager Bob Melvin saw Pagan's effort Saturday as a reflection of what his reliever is capable of when he pitches to his strengths. "It just seemed like he was confident," Melvin said. "Things like that don't show up, but those two innings we got from him kept us where we could have the potential comeback. He has it in him. It probably was good for him to go down and work on his strengths."
May 20 2018Pagan (1-0) allowed a hit and a walk over two scoreless innings in a win over the Blue Jays on Saturday. He also recorded a strikeout.Pagan took over after Sean Manaea struggled through five innings, delivering a pair of scoreless frames to keep the Athletics' deficit a manageable 4-0. That would ultimately prove pivotal to Oakland's comeback, as they were able to put together a five-run rally in the top half of the eighth that afforded Pagan his first win in an Oakland uniform. The strong outing was a welcome sight, considering that Pagan had earned a demotion to Triple-A Nashville in early May after allowing seven earned runs on 13 hits over six consecutive appearances.
May 18 2018Pagan was promoted to the big leagues prior to Friday's game in Toronto, Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.Pagan will return to the major-league club after appearing in three games with Triple-A Nashville over the past two weeks. Over 13.2 innings with Oakland in March and April, the right-hander posted a 5.93 ERA and 1.76 WHIP with a 7:4 K:BB. Expect to see him serve out of low-leverage situations.
May 18 2018Pagan was promoted to the big league prior to Friday's game in Toronto, Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.Pagan will return to the major-league club after appearing in three games with Triple-A Nashville over the past two weeks. Over 13.2 innings with Oakland in March and April, the right-hander posted a 5.93 ERA and 1.76 WHIP with a 7:4 K:BB. Expect to see him serve out of low-leverage situations.
May 7 2018Pagan, who notched his first hold at the minor-league level in 2018 in Triple-A Nashville's win over Memphis on Sunday, has racked up six strikeouts while allowing only one hit over 3.2 scoreless innings across two appearances with the Sounds.Pagan had similarly impressed (2.56 ERA, 0.87 WHIP) against the same level of competition while with Triple-A Tacoma in the Mariners organization last season, and he'd impressively generated a 56:8 K:BB over 50.2 big-league innings after a subsequent callup to Seattle. However, he hit the skids fairly quickly with the Athletics this season, earning a demotion after allowing a 5.93 ERA and 1.76 WHIP across 12 appearances. His early Nashville returns are certainly encouraging, and a several more efforts of similar caliber could certainly earn him a return to Oakland.
Apr 26 2018Pagan allowed an earned run on two hits and a walk over 1.2 innings in a loss to the Rangers on Wednesday. He struck out three.Pagan has now disconcertingly allowed at least one earned run in five straight appearances, a span during which he's also yielded four home runs. On the brighter side, Pagan's three strikeouts Wednesday represented a season high, but his ERA and WHIP now sit at 5.68 and 1.58, respectively, following his latest appearance.
Apr 15 2018Pagan allowed two earned runs on two solo home runs over 1.1 innings in a 10-8 loss to the Mariners on Saturday.Kyle Seager and Daniel Vogelbach both got to Pagan for solo blasts, the second and third homers allowed by the right-hander on the season. All three round trippers have come over the last two appearances for the 26-year-old, who'd posted four straight scoreless efforts before that pair of outings. Pagan displayed a bit of vulnerability to the long ball in his rookie 2017 campaign with the Mariners as well, posting a 1.2 HR/9 across 50.2 innings over 34 appearances.
Apr 8 2018Pagan earned his second hold in Saturday's 7-3 win over the Angels, firing a scoreless two-thirds of an inning and recording a strikeout.Pagan took over with one out in the seventh after Ryan Buchter allowed a solo home run to Luis Valbuena that brought the Angels within 4-3. The right-hander quickly disposed of Jefry Marte and Rene Rivera to prevent further damage and set the stage for Blake Treinen's two-inning save. Pagan appears to be settling into a groove, now having generated four straight scoreless efforts after giving up an earned run apiece in each of his first two appearances of the season.
Apr 6 2018Pagan fired a scoreless two-thirds of an inning in Thursday's 6-3 loss to the Rangers, allowing one hit.After opening the season by allowing an earned run on a pair of hits in each of his first two trips to the mound, Pagan has generated a combined 2.1 scoreless frames over his subsequent pair of appearances. The 26-year-old right-hander should see plenty of middle-to-late-inning work throughout the course of the season, affording him an opportunity to deliver on the considerable upside he demonstrated in a rookie 2017 campaign with the Mariners during which he generated a 56:8 K:BB over 50.2 innings.
Mar 19 2018Pagan's spring ERA is down to 1.50 following a Saturday appearance in a Cactus League loss to a Mariners split squad in which he fired a perfect eighth inning and recorded one strikeout.Dealt to the Athletics from Seattle last November, Pagan made some of his former teammates the latest victims in what has been a dominant spring. The 26-year-old right-hander generated a solid 3.22 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 56:8 K:BB across 50.3 innings with the Mariners in 2017, and the fact he's helped validate those numbers with six stellar exhibition appearances provides plenty of reason for optimism. Considering the Athletics bullpen experienced its fair share of instability last season and nevertheless sports multiple holdovers, Pagan could very well carve out a steady eighth-inning role as a setup option to closer Blake Treinen.
Nov 15 2017Pagan was traded to the Athletics along with Alexander Campos in exchange for Ryon Healy.Pagan made his major-league debut in 2017, posting a respectable 3.22 ERA to go along with his 0.93 WHIP and 56:8 K:BB across 50.1 innings of work. The 26-year-old has shown the makings of a high-leverage reliever, as evidenced by his 2.45 ERA, 305 strikeouts and 51 saves across five minor-league seasons (257.1 innings). He'll factor into Oakland's bullpen next season, and there's a good chance he could see high-leverage opportunities for the A's.
Sep 18 2017Pagan allowed three runs (two earned) on two hits in Sunday's 7-1 loss to the Astros. He also recorded two strikeouts.Pagan fell victim to the long ball, allowing a solo shot to George Springer and a two-run shot to Carlos Correa. The 26-year-old righty had seemingly settled down after allowing an earned run apiece in four consecutive outings between late August and early September, having strung together four straight scoreless appearances heading into Sunday. However, his stumble bumped his ERA for the month to 7.20 and he's now allowed three round trippers over the five innings encompassing his last seven appearances.
Sep 18 2017Pagan allowed three runs (two earned) on two hits over an inning in Sunday's 7-1 loss to the Astros. He also recorded two strikeouts.Pagan fell victim to the long ball, allowing a solo shot to George Springer and a two-run blast to Carlos Correa. The 26-year-old righty had seemingly settled down after allowing an earned run apiece in four consecutive outings between late August and early September, as he'd strung together four straight scoreless appearances heading into Sunday. However, his stumble bumped his ERA for the month up to 7.20 and he's now allowed three round trippers over the five innings encompassing his last seven appearances.
Sep 4 2017Pagan was credited with his fifth hold in Sunday's 10-2 win over the Athletics, allowing an earned run on two hits over an inning-plus. He also recorded a strikeout.Pagan has been a bit more hittable as of late, as he's now allowed an earned run in three straight games and five out of the last six overall. He continues see plenty of work, however, as manager Scott Servais appears to value his ability to often eat up multiple innings if called upon. He also offers plenty of strikeout upside, as evidenced by his 43:7 K:BB over 41 innings.
Aug 29 2017Pagan (1-3) gave up an earned run on three hits over 2.2 innings in Monday's 7-6 loss to the Orioles. He struck out three.Pagan pitched well overall, but the seventh-inning go-ahead two-bagger he surrendered to Chris Davis ultimately proved to be the difference in the contest. The 26-year-old reliever has now allowed four earned runs in three of his last four outings but retains a consistent bullpen role, along with a solid 2.77 ERA and 0.90 WHIP.
Aug 22 2017Pagan notched his fourth hold in Monday's 6-5 win over the Braves, allowing an earned run on two hits over two-thirds of an inning.Pagan has now been touched up for three earned runs over the 1.1 innings encompassing his last two appearances, a relative rarity in what has been a solid campaign overall. However, he managed to escape with a hold Monday, despite giving up a triple and sacrifice fly in the sixth after inheriting a three-run lead. The 26-year-old right-hander remains a viable fantasy asset in AL-only and deep formats, particularly now that he's started to see some hold opportunities.
Aug 10 2017Pagan (1-2) fired 2.2 scoreless innings in Wednesday's 6-3 win over the Athletics, allowing just one hit and recording a pair of strikeouts.Pagan has shaken off the rare stumble against the Royals that he opened August with, now having put together two subsequent scoreless outings. Pagan has now generated scoreless efforts in four of the last five appearances in which he's worked multiple innings, rendering him manager Scott Servais' most consistent long-relief option at present.
Aug 4 2017Pagan (0-2) gave up three runs (two earned) on four hits over two innings in Thursday's 6-4 loss to the Royals.The 26-year-old had given up just a single earned run over the six appearances he'd logged since his most recent promotion from Triple-A Tacoma, but that impressive stretch ended with a thud. Pagan yielded consecutive RBI singles to Lorenzo Cain and Melky Cabrera in the seventh before surrendering a 375-foot solo blast to Brandon Moss in his second and final inning. Thursday's stumble aside, Pagan's overall body of work has been impressive, and his ability to log multiple innings figures to continue affording him regular work.
Jul 30 2017Pagan is slated to see more high-leverage relief work due to the recent trade of Steve Cishek to the Rays, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports.Pagan has been very impressive in a multi-inning role since returning to the Mariners on July 7, apparently earning manager Scott Servais' trust to the point where he's ready to afford him some of the high-stakes work that Cishek used to see. The 26-year-old right-hander has posted a solid 2.45 ERA and 22:6 K:BB over 22 big-league innings this season.
Jul 24 2017Pagan fired three scoreless innings in Sunday's 6-4 loss to the Yankees, allowing two hits and a walk while recording four strikeouts.Pagan has been lights-out in his current Mariners stint, allowing just one earned run over 10.1 innings across four appearances. Sunday's effort was his second three-inning, two-hit scoreless outing versus the Yankees in the weekend series, which served to lower his ERA from 3.60 to 2.57. The 26-year-old right-hander has undoubtedly earned the confidence of manager Scott Servais, which could certainly lead to a robust workload for the balance of the campaign.
Jul 22 2017Pagan fired three scoreless innings in Friday's 5-1 loss to the Yankees, allowing two hits and a walk while recording a strikeout.The rubber-armed right-hander has now pitched the equivalent of a quality start over his last three outings, allowing just one earned run on five hits and three walks over 7.1 innings while also notching five strikeouts. Pagan's ability to eat up innings is surely a welcome addition to a bullpen that's often seen a heavy workload while supporting what has at times been a makeshift starting rotation.
Jul 19 2017Pagan allowed an earned run on two hits over two innings in Tuesday's 6-2 loss to the Astros while also recording three strikeouts.Just recalled from Triple-A Tacoma on July 7, Pagan has simply picked up where he'd left off in his two previous major-league outings. The 26-year-old right-hander had pieced together a pair of scoreless four-inning outings on May 23 and June 11, and he then fired two scoreless frames against the White Sox on Sunday in his first appearance since returning. Pagan brings plenty of strikeout upside (15 whiffs in 15 big-league innings this season), and, alongside former starter Yovani Gallardo, makes for another viable long-relief option for manager Scott Servais.
Jul 7 2017Pagan was called up from Triple-A Tacoma on Friday.Pagan has appeared in four games games with the Mariners this season, allowing five earned runs off five hits in 10.2 innings of work. With 11 strikeouts, Pagan has been able to get batters out, and a .173 BABIP with a 0.66 WHIP shows that the southpaw has pitched well during his opportunities. He will likely serve as a middle reliever during his time with the big-league team, while Sam Gaviglio heads back to Tacoma in a corresponding move.
Jun 12 2017Pagan fired four scoreless innings in Sunday's 4-0 loss to the Blue Jays, issuing one walk and striking out five.Pagan ate up some valuable innings after starter James Paxton faltered, posting what was his second straight scoreless four-inning effort at the big-league level. The 26-year-old rookie has made the trip up to the majors on multiple occasions this season, and despite his impressive showing, the length of his current stint remains firmly up in the air.
Jun 10 2017Pagan was called back up to Seattle on Saturday.Pagan has gone back and forth between the Mariners and Triple-A Tacoma this season, and will join the team prior to Saturday's game against the Blue Jays. In three appearances with Seattle this season, he has given up five earned runs in 6.2 innings of work, with six strikeouts.
May 22 2017Pagan was recalled from Triple-A Tacoma on Monday.This will be Pagan's second stint with the big club this season, as he appeared in two games for the Mariners earlier in the season (allowing five runs through 2.2 innings). Despite his big-league struggles, Pagan does own a 3.24 ERA and 21:7 K:BB through 16.2 innings at Triple-A this season. Pagan replaced Chris Heston on the roster, though his stint could prove to be short with the Mariners in need of another spot starter over the weekend.