Tejay Antone returns, Emilio Pagán to IL among Reds roster moves

TL;DR

Tejay Antone returns to the Cincinnati Reds after over two years, called up from Triple-A Louisville. Emilio Pagán was placed on the 15-day injured list due to a hamstring injury.

Key points

Tejay Antone called up from Triple-A Louisville
Antone returns after over two years of recovery
Emilio Pagán placed on 15-day injured list
Reds also returned Pierce Johnson from bereavement leave
Chase Petty optioned back to Triple-A Louisville

Tejay AntoneEmilio PagánCincinnati RedsTriple-A Louisville

Tejay Antone during 2026 spring training.

CHICAGO − A handful of roster moves that returned the Cincinnati Reds' bullpen to near full strength meant a return to the big leagues for the first time in over two years for hard-luck right-hander Tejay Antone.

Antone, who underwent a third Tommy John-level surgery on his pitching elbow in 2024, was called up from Triple-A Louisville on Wednesday, May 6, one night after closer Emilio Pagán suffered what appeared to be a serious hamstring injury.

Pagán went on the 15-day injured list (IL) in one of the May 6 moves, with the Reds also returning reliever Pierce Johnson from bereavement leave and optioning Chase Petty back to Louisville after Monday's impressive spot start in Chicago.

Tejay Antone during 2026 spring training.

To make room on the 40-man roster, left-hander Brandon Williamson (shoulder fatigue) was transferred to the 60-day IL, suggesting his injury requires a longer-term process than originally divulged.

Q&A

What injury did Emilio Pagán suffer that led to his placement on the IL?

Emilio Pagán suffered a serious hamstring injury, which resulted in him being placed on the 15-day injured list.

How long has Tejay Antone been out before returning to the Reds?

Tejay Antone has been out for over two years due to recovering from a third Tommy John-level surgery on his pitching elbow.

What other roster moves did the Cincinnati Reds make alongside Antone's return?

Alongside Antone's return, the Reds also returned reliever Pierce Johnson from bereavement leave and optioned Chase Petty back to Triple-A Louisville.