Cincinnati Reds Bolster Bullpen with Pierce Johnson Signing

The Cincinnati Reds have strengthened their bullpen by signing right-handed reliever Pierce Johnson, as reported by Jon Heyman from the New York Post. This move comes as the Reds aim to enhance their competitiveness in the National League Central for the upcoming 2026 season, despite missing out on their targeted free agent, designated hitter Kyle Schwarber.

Johnson, who spent the last two seasons with the Atlanta Braves, has established himself as a reliable late-inning reliever. In the 2025 season, he posted a record of 3-3 with a solid 3.05 ERA, along with one save and 59 strikeouts over 59 innings of work. His experience and performance make him a valuable addition to the Reds’ pitching staff.

Reds’ Bullpen Improvement Plans

The Reds’ bullpen struggled during the 2025 season, ranking 14th in Major League Baseball with a bullpen ERA of 3.89. They also finished 15th in saves, converting 41 out of 63 opportunities. Closer Emilio Pagan played a significant role in this aspect, securing 32 of those saves, and is expected to continue as the primary closer under manager Terry Francona heading into 2026.

Johnson’s track record indicates that he can excel in high-pressure situations. Throughout his career, he has maintained a 2.68 ERA in the seventh inning and a 2.54 ERA in the eighth inning, showcasing his capability to serve as an effective setup man for Pagan. This strategic addition could elevate the overall performance of a Reds bullpen looking to improve its standing in the league.

As the Reds prepare for the upcoming season, the addition of Pierce Johnson represents a focused effort to build a more competitive roster. With several key players returning and the potential for additional moves, fans are hopeful for a stronger showing as they aim to rise in the National League Central standings.