Minnesota Twins Swap Out Bullpen Pitchers

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Brent Headrick
Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Twins remain in a free fall as they attempt to stay in contention for the postseason. They have had pitching issues for weeks, but it’s a lackluster lineup that has consistently burned through arms. A new arm is on the way with the hope that a jolt can be provided for the group. Minnesota is calling on Brent Headrick to make his 2024 debut.

Brent Headrick is back in the big leagues for the Minnesota Twins

Brent Headrick made his major league debut last season for the Minnesota Twins. The former ninth round pick pitched 25 2/3 innings working entirely out of the bullpen. As a starter in the minor leagues, he was able to provide Rocco Baldelli length. He also has the benefit of being a southpaw.

The Twins used Ronny Henriquez in high-leverage spots the past couple of nights. He was rewarded with a ticket across town. Henriquez owns a 3.26 ERA this season in 19 1/3 innings. Headrick was a two-pitch pitcher at the big league level last season. The fastball sits in the low 90’s and he pairs it with a slider. His changeup is a pitch he has really only used at the minor league level.

Headrick has missed most of the season due to a forearm injury. He worked his way back to health and has a 2.00 ERA across 18 innings with Triple-A St. Paul. His 23/6 K/BB is impressive, but he does have a slight tendency to get burned by the longball.

Related: Jhoan Duran Dealing with Self-Confidence Issues

The Twins bullpen is in a proverbial state of dice rolling for Rocco Baldelli right now. Griffin Jax is the only consistent reliever on a nightly basis. Jhoan Duran is struggling through confidence issues and hasn’t put together a clean stretch for quite some time. The decision to add Cole Irvin and send Jorge Alcala packing was an odd one.

There is no reason to believe that Headrick will operate in high leverage. Headrick almost immediately becomes the best left-handed option in relief. Caleb Thielbar has been a mess this season, and Irvin hasn’t been tested at all since being signed.

Related: Minnesota Twins Pitcher Reveals Underlying Blister Issue

Minnesota sits a game behind the Kansas City Royals, and one ahead of the Detroit Tigers, with regards to the wild card standings. Their current playoff odds are 79.3%.

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