Twins Face Bullpen Need as Iglesias Emerges as Potential Target

Minnesota finished the 2026 season with a 4.74 bullpen ERA, sixth-worst in the majors, and faces openings after A.J. Minter and Taylor Rogers became free agents. Another concern is the health of Jeff Hoffman, projected to close for the Twins next season. He had right-elbow surgery on October 27 to remove a bone fragment and clean up the joint. The team expects him to start throwing in about eight weeks, but his return is not assured.

Atlanta’s Raisel Iglesias is one possible veteran addition. He recorded a 2.55 ERA, 34 saves in 37 chances and 64 strikeouts over 60 innings in 2026, earning his first All-Star selection. His save total was a career high, and he has posted at least 28 saves in each of the past eight seasons. Since 2023, he leads the majors with 130 saves, converting 89% of his opportunities.

Iglesias still showed strong swing-and-miss ability, particularly with his changeup, which produced a 40.7% whiff rate. But his average four-seam fastball velocity fell from 94.9 mph to 94.3, while opponents made hard contact at a 47.1% rate. His sinker also allowed a higher expected slugging percentage than the previous season. A projected one-year deal worth $16 million would be a substantial bullpen investment. Minnesota could also consider David Bednar, whose next step depends on whether he accepts the Yankees’ $23.15 million qualifying offer.