The Los Angeles Dodgers entered the last MLB season with World Series ambitions, but a glaring weakness threatened to derail their entire campaign: a unreliable bullpen. The tension was palpable all season, as late-inning leads consistently evaporated and relievers faltered in high-pressure situations that championship teams are expected to control.
A Season of Bullpen Struggles
The statistics tell a stark story. The Dodgers' bullpen finished with a 4.27 ERA, a ranking far too low for a team with championship aspirations. This fundamental flaw was ruthlessly exposed during the high-stakes playoff games. Manager Dave Roberts was repeatedly forced into a corner, having to use his starting pitchers in emergency relief roles because he simply could not trust his regular relievers to get crucial outs.
The situation reached its breaking point in a dramatic Game 7. With the season on the line and no reliable options left, Yoshinobu Yamamoto was called upon to pitch on zero rest to close out the game. This desperate move, born from a complete lack of a trusted closer, is a scenario the Dodgers' front office is determined to never repeat.
Emilio Pagán: The Ideal Solution
Instead of seeking another temporary patch, the Dodgers' management is actively pursuing a solid, long-term solution for the back of their bullpen. All signs point to Emilio Pagán being that answer. Pagán brings a proven track record of success in the demanding ninth-inning role, complemented by excellent command and the unshakeable mental fortitude needed to handle the pressure of being the final pitcher.
This is precisely the kind of strategic move that can instantly stabilize a contending team. Pagán offers the Dodgers three crucial elements they currently lack: control, confidence, and a clear, dependable plan for the late innings.
Why Pagán is a Perfect Fit for the Dodgers
Emilio Pagán aligns perfectly with the Dodgers' requirements for bullpen reinforcement. He is a short-term, high-leverage pitcher who thrives in clutch moments without commanding a superstar salary like Edwin Díaz. ESPN analysts rank him among other valuable, tier-two free agents such as Brad Keller, Pete Fairbanks, and Robert Suárez, making him ideal for the one or two-year contracts that keep Los Angeles' options flexible.
His capability is underscored by 32 saves in the 2025 season, demonstrating his proven ability to handle the closer's role. He would seamlessly slot into the existing bullpen setup alongside key pieces like Evan Phillips and Alex Vesia.
Defensively, Pagán's value is immense. He boasts an impressively low walk rate of 1.97 BB/9 and a proven knack for limiting hard contact, with a 37% hard-hit rate and a .254 wOBA allowed. These skills are tailor-made for stabilizing tense late-game situations, significantly reducing the burden on star starters like Yamamoto.
Furthermore, in a Dodgers lineup projected to once again dominate MLB in runs scored, Pagán's 45% ground-ball rate is a perfect fit. It plays directly into the strengths of their elite infield defense, featuring stars like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. With a projected salary of $12.3 million for one year according to Spotrac, he represents tremendous value compared to more expensive alternatives, giving the Dodgers the financial flexibility to address other needs, such as the outfield or trade opportunities.
The recent market has only reinforced his value. Raisel Iglesias re-signed with the Atlanta Braves for $16 million for one year, especially after turning down an offer from Los Angeles. This deal highlights the premium cost for established closers. In this context, Pagán emerges as a solid and dependable option who provides similar reliability at a more palatable cost. While the Dodgers may have interest in other players like Devin Williams, securing Pagán serves as a smart and strategic backup plan to decisively strengthen the ninth inning without overspending.
