The Detroit Tigers have signed reliever Emilio Pagán to a one-year deal worth $11 million, filling the bullpen gap left by the departure of Kenley Jansen. The Tigers declined Jansen’s $12 million club option for 2027, opting instead to pay a $2 million buyout, making the veteran closer a free agent after just one season with Detroit.
Pagán, 35, had declined a $10 million player option with the Cincinnati Reds on October 31, making him available on the market. He recorded 25 saves in 28 opportunities during the 2026 season, following a 32-save campaign in 2025 with a 2.88 ERA. His combined total of 57 saves over the past two seasons in Cincinnati demonstrated his effectiveness in late-inning situations.
According to New York Post’s Jon Heyman, who shared the update on social media platform X early Wednesday, the Tigers' agreement with Pagán is valued at roughly $11 million for one year. Heyman did not disclose any additional incentives or contract details.
Pagán’s 2026 performance included a 3.38 ERA with 45 strikeouts and 11 walks across 42 and two-thirds innings. He posted a 1.03 WHIP and overcame a left hamstring strain that interrupted his season. After returning from injury, Pagán recorded a 1.88 ERA over his last 30 appearances, covering 28 and two-thirds innings.
Detroit has retained pitching depth beyond Pagán by exercising Drew Anderson’s option and re-signing Jacob Waguespack. With Jansen’s exit, Pagán offers the Tigers a reliever with recent closing experience, though the team has not specified his bullpen role for the upcoming campaign.
The deal pays Pagán approximately $1 million more than the option he declined with Cincinnati, reflecting his value after two strong seasons as a closer.
The Tigers’ bullpen moves come as the team prepares for the 2027 season, looking to build on the foundation of pitching depth and experience. Meanwhile, the club’s shortstop Kevin McGonigle recently earned the American League Rookie of the Year award, underscoring Detroit’s efforts to develop young talent alongside veteran signings.
According to Yahoo Sports.
