Cincinnati Reds Designate Veteran Pitcher Chris Paddack for Assignment

The Cincinnati Reds returned to the MLB playoffs a year ago and have built a roster around a young core that includes Elly De La Cruz, Spencer Steer and Sal Stewart. Through 76 games in the 2026 season the team is 37-39, sitting 9.5 games behind the National League Central leader. Injuries have limited the lineup, and the pitching staff’s 4.58 ERA ranks 24th in the majors, a shortfall amplified by the absence of starter Hunter Greene.

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• Early 2026: The Miami Marlins designated right-hander Chris Paddack for assignment after a 0-5 start and a 7.63 ERA in 30.2 innings.

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• Subsequent weeks: The Reds acquired Paddack, hoping his prior success with the San Diego Padres would translate.

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• Six appearances for Cincinnati: Paddack recorded an 0-2 win-loss line and a 6.04 ERA over 22.1 innings.

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• On a Monday: The Reds announced Paddack’s designation for assignment, selected prospect Julian Garcia, and activated reliever Pierce Johnson from the 15-day injured list.

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Paddack’s combined 2026 MLB ERA: 6.96 across Miami and Cincinnati. Reds’ staff ERA: 4.58 (24th overall). Julian Garcia’s Triple-A performance: 3.03 ERA in 35.2 innings. Reds’ overall record after 76 games: 37-39.

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• Chris Paddack: 30-year-old right-hander, previously with the San Diego Padres; has not posted a sub-4.00 ERA over a full major-league season.

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• Julian Garcia: Right-handed prospect promoted from Triple-A Louisville; noted for a 3.03 ERA at that level.

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• Pierce Johnson: Veteran reliever added to the bullpen after a short stint on the injured list.

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• Hunter Greene: Starting pitcher currently unavailable due to injury, contributing to the rotation’s instability.

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The team announced the designation of Paddack, the selection of Julian Garcia, and the activation of Pierce Johnson from the 15-day injured list. No verbatim quotations from team officials appear in the source material.

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Analysts contend that “Paddack was never going to be the answer for the Reds,” highlighting his inability to secure consistent major-league innings and the broader challenges of integrating veteran starters into a rebuilding roster.

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On paper, the Reds could be competitive if they achieve a balance between offense and pitching, but the current NL Central leaderboard is dominated by the Chicago Cubs, Milwaukee Brewers and St. Louis Cardinals. The recent roster moves occur as the club seeks that balance while the division is led by those teams.

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