Emilio Pagán and Brock Burke provide stability for Cincinnati Reds bullpen

The 2026 Cincinnati Reds bullpen has found recent consistency behind the performance of Emilio Pagán and Brock Burke. After a season defined by frequent injuries and inconsistent pitching, the arrival of a healthy relief core has provided stability to the team’s late-inning strategy. Emilio Pagán returned from a two-month injury absence in late June and has since recorded a personal record of 15 consecutive successful save opportunities. Meanwhile, Brock Burke has utilized his versatility to handle various high-leverage situations, allowing manager Terry Francona to manage matchups more effectively in the late innings. The unit previously struggled significantly while other pitchers attempted to fill roles during periods of injury, leading to a difficult record during the middle of the season. With both pitchers now anchoring the back end, the bullpen has regained a clearer structure after facing challenges throughout the year.

• 6:36 PMYahoo Sports — Cincinnati Reds: Emilio Pagán and Brock Burke are solidifying bullpen