Detroit Tigers Sign Veteran Reliever Emilio Pagan to One Year Deal

Detroit Adds Veteran Arm

The Detroit Tigers have reached an agreement on a one year contract with relief pitcher Emilio Pagan.

The veteran right hander hits the market and finds a new home after declining his player option for next season. That option with the Cincinnati Reds was worth $10 million. Pagan decided to test free agency instead, and Detroit moved quickly to secure him.

Pagan Solid in Cincinnati

Pagan is coming off a strong campaign in 2026 with Cincinnati, where he pitched under a $10 million salary. He posted a 5-1 record alongside a 3.38 ERA across the season. He also took on closing duties, collecting 25 saves in 28 opportunities for the club.

His season had an interruption because of an injury during the summer. Pagan missed extended time with a strained left hamstring. That injury kept him off the mound and prevented him from pitching for the Reds between May 5 and July 3.

At 35 years old, Pagan brings extensive experience to Detroit. He has completed 10 major league seasons in his career, spending his last three years with the Reds. Over that span in the big leagues, the right hander has recorded 90 total saves.

Addressing Bullpen Needs

Detroit brings in Pagan to address clear needs in the later innings of games. The Tigers bullpen finished 11th in Major League Baseball in ERA last season. While the pitching unit produced solid numbers overall, it had difficulties in high pressure spots.

Detroit general manager Scott Harris made it known that the club wanted to reshape the bullpen this winter. Harris stated that adding more "swing and miss" talent as well as a veteran presence to the relief staff was a priority for Detroit. With 90 career saves and 10 seasons of experience, Pagan fits what the front office targeted.