Twins' Rotation Shuffle Ahead of Athletics Series
The Minnesota Twins announced that right‑hander Mike Paredes will not take the mound in the upcoming series against the Oakland Athletics. The move comes after the team identified a left oblique strain during his recent warm‑up, a setback that forces the club to adjust its rotation just days before the first game.
Left‑hander Kendry Rojas, who has been working out of the bullpen, was inserted into the starting lineup and will make his fourth career start. Rojas brings a mix of poise and experience, having shown the ability to command a fastball that sits in the mid‑90s while mixing in a sharp breaking ball.
Roster Implications and Player Movements
Paredes, who entered the season with a 4.72 earned‑run average, has struggled to string together consistent outings, surrendering at least one run in each of his nine big‑league appearances. Despite a modest strikeout rate, his walk count has risen, reflecting control issues that the coaching staff hopes to address.
If the Twins place Paredes on the injured list, the vacancy could open a pathway for left‑hander Connor Prielipp, who has been sidelined since July 9 with a blister. Prielipp’s recent rehabilitation outings suggest he may be ready to rejoin the rotation, adding depth to a staff that is looking to stabilize its performance.
The ripple effect of these changes extends beyond a single game, influencing the club’s strategic planning for the remainder of the season. Manager Rocco Baldelli has indicated that the team will evaluate each arm’s health and readiness, aiming to maintain competitiveness while managing workload.