The Cincinnati Reds are making waves this offseason, and it’s not just about their lineup—it’s about their bullpen. In a move that’s sure to spark debate among fans, the Reds have added veteran reliever Pierce Johnson to their roster, according to sources. But here’s where it gets interesting: this isn’t just another signing; it’s a strategic play to bolster a bullpen that’s seen its fair share of departures. After losing key relievers like Emilio Pagán, Scott Barlow, Nick Martinez, and Brent Suter to free agency, the Reds’ front office has been on a mission to rebuild their relief corps—and they’re not done yet.
Pierce Johnson, a 34-year-old right-hander, is no stranger to the mound. Last season with the Braves, he posted a solid 3.05 ERA and a 1.203 WHIP across 65 appearances. His career ERA sits at 3.79 over eight seasons with the Cubs, Giants, Padres, Rockies, and Braves. But what really stands out? His curveball. Johnson has leaned heavily on his hook, throwing it over 70% of the time in both 2024 and 2025—a rate that’s more than 20 percentage points higher than any other MLB pitcher. Pair that with a mid-90s fastball and a sparingly used cutter, and you’ve got a pitcher who keeps batters guessing.
However, there’s a twist: Johnson showed a notable platoon split last season. While he dominated righties with a .622 OPS and a 40-to-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio, lefties fared better, posting an .800 OPS and drawing 16 walks against just 19 strikeouts. Is this a red flag, or can the Reds coach him to even the odds? It’s a question that’s sure to divide opinions.
The Reds have already made significant moves this offseason, re-signing closer Emilio Pagán to a two-year, $20 million deal and adding left-hander Caleb Ferguson on a one-year, $4.5 million contract. But Johnson’s addition feels different. It’s not just about filling a spot—it’s about bringing in a veteran presence with a unique pitch mix. And this is the part most people miss: his curveball isn’t just a pitch; it’s a weapon that could change the dynamics of late-inning matchups.
As the Reds gear up for the upcoming season, one thing is clear: their bullpen is shaping up to be a force to be reckoned with. But will Johnson’s curveball be enough to offset his struggles against lefties? And how will he fit into the Reds’ long-term strategy? What do you think? Is this a game-changing move, or are there hidden risks? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
