Reds Sign DFA'd Pitcher With 7.63 ERA

With another starter going down to injury, the Cincinnati Reds were looking to add some depth to their rotation. To that end, they've signed recently DFA'd starter Chris Paddack to a deal.

Reds sign veteran RHP Chris Paddack, 30, who was DFA’d by Marlins. He’ll start Saturday. Rhett Lowder (shoulder) to IL. P.J. Higgins DFA’d to clear 40-man spot. Paddock 4.79 career ERA, 116 starts. 0-5, 7.63 this year for Marlins.
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubMLB) May 13, 2026

Paddack, the 30-year-old former top prospect, had been getting roughed up big-time for the Miami Marlins this season, to the tune of a 0-5 record with a 7.63 ERA and a 1.66 WHIP. Those five losses lead the entire major leagues, and led to his DFA this past week.

He had an extremely promising rookie season with the San Diego Padres back in 2019, with a 3.33 ERA and sensational 0.98 WHIP in 26 starts. But since then, Paddack hasn't really been any better than a 5.00+ ERA pitcher.

He finished at 5.35 last year in 28 starts split between the Minnesota Twins and Detroit Tigers. Overall, now in his 8th season, the right-hander has a 4.79 ERA with a 1.24 WHIP. His strikeout and walk rates have been decent, but he just hasn't gotten the results.

Rhett Lowder has been placed on the IL with right shoulder discomfort that forced him to exit his last start.

Ace Hunter Green is out until at least late July, while Nick Lodolo only just returned from a blister injury to make his season debut on May 8.

The Reds will hope that Paddack can hold the fort for a bit in the No. 5 spot in the rotation.