Pierce Johnson
Breakdown
Performance
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May 10, 2026
Picks up save Saturday
Johnson threw a perfect ninth inning to earn the save in Saturday's 3-1 win over the Astros. He did not record a strikeout.
Analysis
With Emilio Pagan (hamstring) expected to miss significant time and presumed replacement Tony Santillan struggling, the Reds turned to Graham Ashcraft in the eighth inning and then Johnson in the ninth. Johnson needed just 12 pitches to retire the heart of the Astros' order, and he now owns a 3.38 ERA, 1.25 WHIP and 15:5 K:BB across 16 innings with two holds and a save. While the Reds' closer situation is likely still unsettled, the 34-year-old certainly helped his case for future save chances with Saturday's performance.
May 6, 2026
Returns from bereavement list
The Reds activated Johnson from the bereavement list Wednesday.
Analysis
Johnson is ready to rejoin the bullpen after being away from the club for a few days. The veteran reliever will move up in the Reds' bullpen hierarchy while Emilio Pagan (hamstring) is out and could see some high-leverage opportunities.