Craig Sandlin and Greg Kufner (RedsDaily4) discuss the decision to use Pierce Johnson as the closer for the Cincinnati Reds on Saturday. ------------------------------------ Check out our partners ⤵️ Get 20% off sitewide at Homage with promo code CHATTER at checkout: homage.com/CBOX The Anthony Muñoz 78 Cigar! Get your box today: https://www.anthonymunoz.com/anthony-munoz-78-cigars Apply today at Sharefax Credit Union: Sharefax.org or call 513-753-2440 Learn more about our friends at QC Kinetix! Call (513) 655-3356 or visit qckinetix.com It’s OK not to be OK! Need Help? Call or text 988 DAY OR NIGHT or visit mantherapy.org ----------------------------------- Following his acquisition by the Cincinnati Reds, veteran right-hander Pierce Johnson enters the 2026 season as a highly viable candidate for the closer role, bringing a high-octane, curveball-heavy approach to the ninth inning. While often utilized as a setup man throughout his career, Johnson's previous experience and recent metrics suggest he has the high-leverage pedigree required to anchor the Reds' bullpen. Previous Experience and Save Success Johnson has extensive late-inning experience, culminating in a breakout 2023 season split between Colorado and Atlanta, where he set a career-high with 13 saves. During his stint with the Braves that same year, he posted an impressive 0.76 ERA across 24 appearances, proving he can dominate in high-stakes environments. While primarily a setup option in 2024 and 2025, Johnson continued to garner save opportunities. His reliability is underscored by his ability to maintain high strikeout numbers, with a career-high 90 strikeouts in 2023, showcasing his ability to generate swings-and-misses in crucial moments. Metrics and Performance as a Red Early in the 2026 season, Johnson has demonstrated solid performance, solidifying his role in the Reds' late-inning mix, often working alongside Emilio Pagán. He has shown an ability to limit damage and maintain a strong presence in high-leverage spots. His 2026 metrics highlight continued elite strikeout capability. In early May 2026, he was noted for having a 0.00 ERA over his previous 7 days, and even picking up saves. His 2025 season with Atlanta saw a 3.05 ERA and a 1.20 WHIP over 65 appearances, demonstrating consistency. Why He is Viable as Closer Johnson's viability is anchored in his unique arsenal, specifically his curveball, which he throws at a very high rate—sometimes over 70% of his pitches, among the highest in MLB. This breaking ball, paired with a four-seam fastball that averages around 94–96 MPH, allows him to create significant movement and miss bats frequently. In 2023, his strikeout percentage ranked in the 96th percentile league-wide. While he can be prone to the long ball at times, his ability to generate swing-and-miss (91st percentile whiff rate in 2023) makes him an ideal candidate to close out tight games for Cincinnati. His veteran presence, especially having been a key piece in the Braves' bullpen, provides the composure needed for the ninth inning. Johnson brings a proven track record of handling pressure, a high strikeout rate, and a reliable arsenal, making him arguably the best candidate to secure saves for the 2026 Reds.