Minnesota Twins Add MLB Veteran to Pitching Rotation

The Minnesota Twins are currently 3rd in the AL Central with a record of 79-70, holding a spot in the playoff race. With just 13 games left, they will start a crucial 4-game series against the division-leading Cleveland Guardians tonight.

Today, the Twins made a move by claiming veteran pitcher Cole Irvin, who spent most of the season with the Baltimore Orioles. This addition aims to give other on the pitching staff a rest as the season comes to a close.

Minnesota Twins claim pitcher Cole Irvin

As the playoff race heats up and fatigue starts to take its toll late in the regular season, the Twins recognized the need to strengthen their pitching rotation. To address this, they made the smart move of bringing in a solid, experienced veteran arm in Cole Irvin today.

Irvin, drafted by the Phillies in 2016, made his MLB debut in 2019 with a 2-1 record and a 5.83 ERA over 16 games. In 2020, he struggled, pitching in just three games with a 17.18 ERA and four strikeouts.

The Oakland Athletics acquired Irvin in 2021, but he struggled and led the American League with 15 losses . In 2023, the Baltimore Orioles traded for him.

This season, the Orioles called up Irvin from Triple-A to serve as a reliever, but they moved him into the starting rotation after a series of injuries to their starting pitchers. Over 21 games , including 14 starts, he posted a 6–5 record and a 4.85 ERA.

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The Twins’ decision to bring in Irvin is mainly about easing the workload for their other pitchers. Since Irvin was claimed after September 1st, he won’t be eligible to pitch in the postseason. However, he might get a start or two or serve as a long-relief option to help close out the season.

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