While imaging on Emilio Pagán’s triceps came back clean, the Cincinnati Reds are exercising caution. Instead of operating a man down in the bullpen, they will place Pagán on the 15-day IL, marking another setback for a Reds team plagued by injuries in 2024.
Pagán left Sunday’s game against the
due to right triceps discomfort. He was replaced by closer Alexis Diaz, who ultimately surrendered the game-winning RBI hit to Shohei Ohtani.
Reds place Emilio Pagán on 15-day IL as injuries continue to define 2024 season
The Reds now have seven pitchers on the injured list. Joining Pagán on the 15-day IL are Justin Wilson and Nick Lodolo, while Ian Gibaut, Tejay Antone, Brandon Williamson, and Alex Young are on the 60-day IL.
Position players have also been hit hard by injuries. Matt McLain, who may not return this season, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and TJ Friedl are all out. Additionally, Noelvi Marte is unavailable until next month after testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs.
Emilio Pagán will go on the IL with triceps soreness.
— Charlie Goldsmith (@CharlieG__) May 23, 2024
This season appears to be slipping away, with injuries at the heart of the Reds’ struggles. While every team deals with injuries, the Reds seem caught in a relentless cycle that often affects their best players.
Last season saw extended absences for players like Antone, Graham Ashcraft, Joey Votto, and Hunter Greene. This year, with both McLain and Marte out, the Reds have struggled offensively. The starting rotation has also been impacted, with Frankie Montas previously on the 15-day IL and Lodolo currently sidelined with a groin injury.
Injuries are part of the game, but the Reds seem to be hit particularly hard. Availability is crucial, and Cincinnati is sorely lacking it in 2024. To fill the roster gap, the Reds selected Brett Kennedy’s contract and designated Bubba Thompson for assignment.
