Cincinnati Reds Closer Emilio Pagan Suffers Severe Hamstring Injury Cincinnati Reds closer Emilio Pagan suffered a significant hamstring injury during a game against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday night, forcing him to be transported off the field in a cart. The incident occurred in the bottom of the ninth inning, where Pagan, already dealing with recurring hamstring issues from earlier in the 2026 season, threw just one pitch. The pitch, a fly ball to Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner, prompted Pagan to immediately clutch his left hamstring, signaling a more severe injury than his previous setbacks. Medical staff assessed the situation quickly, determining that Pagan was unable to bear weight on his left leg. Trainers rushed onto the field to assist him, and he was swiftly taken to a medical cart to be transported to the team’s facility. The Reds’ decision to use a cart instead of a stretcher indicated the severity of the injury, as Pagan was clearly in distress. Right-handed reliever Jose Franco was called upon to relieve him in the 2-2 game, which was the second contest of a series between the Reds and Cubs, longstanding rivals in the National League Central. This injury marks a critical setback for the Reds, as Pagan has been a key reliever for the team. His previous hamstring troubles in April 2026 had limited his availability, but this latest incident appears to be more serious. The Reds will likely need to adjust their bullpen strategy, relying on Franco and other relievers to fill the gap. Pagan’s absence could have a notable impact on the team’s late-inning defense, especially as the season progresses. The incident highlights the physical demands placed on pitchers, particularly closers, who often face high-intensity situations in the late innings.#chicago_cubs #cincinnati_reds #nico_hoerner #emilio_pagan #jose_franco
