Height
6'2"
Weight
202 lbs
Age
34
College
Missouri State
Draft
2012, Rd 1, #43
Experience
8 yrs
Bats/Throws
R/R
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsB-
| Year | Team | GP | ERA | W-L | K | WHIP | IP | SV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 337 | 3.8170478 | 21-25 | 383 | 1.3347194 | 0.0 | 16 |
Current Contract
Length
1 year
Total Value
$6.5M
Guaranteed
$3.9M
AAV
$6.5M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
Pierce Johnson's one-year, $6.5M deal with the Reds earns a C+ CVI, reflecting a market-rate investment in an above-average reliever that addresses immediate needs without long-term risk. At $6.5M AAV, Cincinnati is paying roughly what you'd expect for a pitcher of Johnson's caliber in today's bullpen market, where proven setup men routinely command this tier of salary. The short-term structure works perfectly for both sides — Johnson gets to bet on himself in a favorable launching pad for another payday, while the Reds avoid the multi-year commitments that often backfire with relievers entering their 30s. For a franchise still building toward sustainable contention, this represents smart roster construction: plugging a clear bullpen hole with a dependable arm without blocking prospects or handicapping future payroll flexibility. Johnson's track record suggests he can provide the kind of consistent late-inning production that keeps games close while Cincinnati's young position players continue developing. The deal isn't sexy, but it's the type of shrewd, short-term value play that competitive teams need to make while managing limited resources.
Fan & Media Sentiment
Pierce Johnson, a relief pitcher for the Reds, carries mixed-to-positive public sentiment based on their elite production. His A- performance grade positions him among the elite at the relief pitcher position. While he has yet to earn major individual awards, his contributions to the Reds keep him in the conversation. On a contract worth $6.5M/year, the mid-range salary creates reasonable expectations for solid contributions. Fan opinion is divided, with some appreciating his potential while others point to inconsistencies that temper enthusiasm. At 34, he is in the veteran phase of his career where sustained health and consistency will determine how fans and analysts judge his remaining value.
Recent Games
| Date | OPP | Result | AB | H | R | HR | RBI | BB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wed, 4/8 | @ MIA | L 4-7 | - | - | - | 0 | - | - | - |
| Tue, 4/7 | @ MIA | W 6-3 | - | - | - | 0 | - | - | - |
Transaction History
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