Pierce Johnson

Pierce Johnson is heading to the Cincinnati Reds, per multiple reports. Details of the contract have not been released.

Fantasy Impact

Johnson turned into a valuable reliever for the Braves in his two-and-a-half seasons in Atlanta. The righthander appeared in 147 games for the Braves and pitched to a 2.91 ERA with 158 strikeouts in 139 innings. The veteran reliever has pitched with the Cubs, Giants, Padres, Rockies, and Braves and has a career ERA of 3.79 in 315.2 innings. Johnson will assume a middle relief/setup role in Cincinnati and could grab an occasional save with the Reds.

Pierce Johnson is heading to free agency after Atlanta declined his $7 million club option for the 2026 season on Thursday. The 34-year-old right-hander will now be able to negotiate with all teams.

Fantasy Impact

The decision to decline the option was somewhat surprising, as Johnson has posted a 2.91 ERA with a 158:49 K:BB over 139 innings during his last two-and-a-half seasons in Atlanta. He is expected to draw plenty of interest as a free agent.

Pierce Johnson threw a scoreless inning in a save on Tuesday against the Nationals.

Fantasy Impact

Johnson got the save chance with Raisel Iglesias unavailable. He should remain in his high-leverage role behind Johnson.

Pierce Johnson is slated to open the season as one of Atlanta’s top setup men ahead of closer Raisel Iglesias, per team reports.

Fantasy Impact

Johnson notched six wins and 12 holds in his first full Atlanta year in 2024—now stepping up with Joe Jimenez (knee) sidelined until at least the All-Star break, though a shaky start could see Hector Neris, signed March 3 with 31 holds in 2023, push him. Fantasy managers in deeper leagues can target him for holds; he’s got the gig but isn’t locked.

The Braves activated Pierce Johnson from the 15-day injured list.

Fantasy Impact

Johnson should return to his high leverage role in the Braves bullpen behind Raisel Iglesias.