Reds' bullpen geared up for another look at Twins

Published: Saturday, April 18, 2026 at 9:37 am

Reds Bullpen Shines as Cincinnati Faces Minnesota Twins

The Cincinnati Reds' bullpen is showing impressive form as they prepare for the second game of a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins. The Reds' relief pitchers, including Connor Phillips, Graham Ashcraft, Tony Santillan, and Emilio Pagan, combined to shut down the Twins' offense in the final innings of Friday's 2-1 victory.

Pagan, who appeared to suffer a hamstring injury earlier in the week, has recovered and is pitching effectively. He closed out Friday's game with a perfect ninth inning, throwing only 13 pitches. Despite the injury, Pagan has been a reliable closer, recording six saves this season. He has allowed no runs and only one hit in his last seven outings.

The Reds will rely on Andrew Abbott to start on Saturday. Abbott is looking to bounce back from a recent outing where he struggled, allowing a career-high number of runs. In his previous start against the Twins, Abbott did not earn a decision, allowing five runs over 5 2/3 innings.

The Twins will counter with Taj Bradley, who is undefeated this season. Bradley earned a win in his last start, pitching five innings and allowing only one run. He has a strong track record against the Reds, having pitched 5 1/3 scoreless innings in a previous matchup.

The Twins' offense struggled in Friday's game, managing only five hits. Luke Keaschall, batting third in the lineup, had a tough game, striking out with the bases loaded and grounding into a double play. Keaschall is focused on improving in the next game.

BNN's Perspective: The Reds' bullpen's performance is a positive sign for the team. While the starting pitching needs improvement, the bullpen's ability to close out games could be crucial for Cincinnati's success. The Twins, despite their recent loss, remain a formidable opponent, and the series promises to be competitive.

Keywords: Reds, Twins, bullpen, Emilio Pagan, Andrew Abbott, Taj Bradley, baseball, MLB, Cincinnati, Minnesota, relief pitching, saves, starting pitcher, Luke Keaschall, game, series.

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