Reds Add Veteran Arm to Bullpen Mix
The Cincinnati Reds have made a move to strengthen their pitching staff, agreeing to a one-year, $6.5 million contract with right-handed reliever Pierce Johnson. The deal, which includes a club option for 2027, brings a seasoned arm with recent playoff experience to a Reds bullpen looking to take the next step.
For Johnson, the decision to join Cincinnati was influenced by more than just the contract. Having faced the Reds’ potent lineup last season, he gained firsthand respect for the team’s capabilities. “After Cincinnati ended up re-signing him he was like, ‘You’re coming here. We’re getting it done,'” Johnson said, referencing a conversation with his best friend and new teammate, closer Emilio Pagán. That existing relationship and Pagán’s recruiting pitch played a significant role in bringing Johnson to the Queen City.
A Proven Late-Inning Option
The 32-year-old Johnson is coming off a strong season split between the Colorado Rockies and the San Diego Padres. He posted a 3.42 ERA across 58 appearances, striking out 61 batters in 52.2 innings of work. His performance was a key factor in the Padres’ late-season push and earned him a spot on their playoff roster.
Reds President of Baseball Operations Nick Krall highlighted Johnson’s versatility and experience as major assets. “Pierce brings a track record of success in high-leverage situations,” Krall stated. “His ability to get both right-handed and left-handed hitters out will be invaluable for our bullpen. Adding a veteran with his poise and stuff deepens our pitching staff significantly as we prepare for the upcoming season.”
Building a Contender
This signing signals the Reds’ continued commitment to building a competitive team around their core of young talent. After a surprising run in 2025, the front office is focused on supplementing the roster with reliable veterans who can handle the pressure of a pennant race. Johnson’s presence is expected to provide stability in the seventh or eighth inning, creating a clearer bridge to Pagán in the ninth.
For Johnson, the opportunity to join a rising team with a close friend was an ideal scenario. “Seeing what this group did last year was impressive,” Johnson noted. “There’s a ton of energy and talent here. I’m excited to contribute and help this team win games. Having Emilio here just makes it that much better.”
The Reds believe this addition is another step toward returning to postseason baseball, counting on Johnson’s arm and experience to make a difference in close games throughout the long MLB season.
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