The Cincinnati Reds have bolstered their bullpen for the upcoming 2026 season by signing veteran relief pitcher Pierce Johnson, as reported by MLB Network’s Jon Heyman. The 34-year-old right-hander joins the Reds after spending the last three seasons with the Atlanta Braves, where he had a solid performance in 2025, achieving a 3.05 ERA over 65 games.
Johnson’s addition follows recent signings of Emilio Pagan and left-hander Caleb Ferguson, indicating a concerted effort by the Reds to strengthen their relief options. With Johnson’s extensive experience in the Major Leagues, which includes stints with teams such as the San Diego Padres, Colorado Rockies, San Francisco Giants, and Chicago Cubs, the Reds are optimistic about their bullpen’s depth heading into spring training.
Originally drafted by the Cubs in the first round of the 2012 MLB Draft, Johnson made his MLB debut in 2017 against the Milwaukee Brewers, displaying his potential early on. The Reds are hopeful that, provided everyone remains healthy during spring training, their bullpen will be ready to perform effectively throughout the season.
While the pitching staff is being prioritized, it’s worth noting that the front office is also looking to acquire impactful hitters to enhance the team’s overall offensive capabilities as the 2026 season approaches. This strategic focus reflects the Reds’ ambition to elevate their competitiveness.
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