Twins Re-Sign Taylor Rogers: Veteran Lefty Joins Minnesota Bullpen

The Minnesota Twins are bringing back a familiar face to help stabilize a bullpen that unraveled late last season. By signing veteran left-hander Taylor Rogers to a modest one-year deal, they’re betting on experience, familiarity, and leadership as they try to rebuild a relief corps that was among baseball’s worst after the trade deadline.

Taylor Rogers Returns to Familiar Ground

Ken Rosenthal and Aaron Gleeman report that the Twins have signed Taylor Rogers to a one-year, $2 million contract. This move reunites Minnesota with one of its most recognizable relievers, since Rogers spent six seasons with the club from 2016 to 2021.

Rogers, now 35, was once a cornerstone of the Twins’ bullpen. He served as the team’s closer for three seasons and even earned an All-Star nod in 2021.

His return isn’t really about chasing past glory. The Twins just want some stability and experience for a group that sorely lacked both down the stretch last year.

A Look at Rogers’ Recent Performance

In 2025, Rogers split his time between the Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cubs. He put up a 3.38 ERA across 50 2/3 innings, which is pretty respectable.

His strikeout rate stayed solid at 24%. He can still miss bats when he needs to.

But there are warning signs. His walk rate jumped to a concerning 10.4%, and his overall effectiveness has slipped as his stuff has faded.

Once a power lefty, Rogers has seen clear drops in velocity and pitch quality. That’s not exactly ideal for a reliever trying to hold down late innings.

Declining Stuff, Changing Role

The numbers show a pitcher in transition. Rogers’ sinker velocity has dropped from 95.7 mph in 2021 to 92.7 mph in 2025.

His slider has fallen too, going from 84 mph to 78.4 mph in that same span. That’s led to fewer swinging strikes and more contact from hitters.

Because of these changes, teams have used Rogers mostly in low-leverage spots over the past two seasons. He’s not the lockdown closer he used to be.

Still, the Twins think he can help. His ability to navigate tough left-handed hitters and handle pressure could come in handy when needed.

Why the Twins Still See Value

Minnesota’s bullpen took a big hit at last year’s trade deadline. The front office dealt away five relievers, and the aftermath was rough—one of the worst bullpen ERAs in baseball after the deadline.

Even with his diminished stuff, Rogers instantly becomes the most experienced reliever in the room. His familiarity with the organization and clubhouse could matter just as much as his innings on the mound.

Roster and Payroll Implications

The Twins will need to clear space on their 40-man roster to officially add Rogers, along with recently signed catcher Victor Caratini. Some roster shuffling is on the way soon.

Financially, Rogers’ $2 million guarantee pushes Minnesota’s payroll to just under $109 million. That still leaves the club with a little flexibility if they want to keep tinkering with the bullpen.

More Help on the Way?

The Twins have reportedly talked with other relievers, including Seranthony Domínguez. There are still some intriguing arms out there, so Minnesota has options if they want to keep building up the bullpen.

• Michael Kopech
• Nick Martinez
• Tommy Kahnle
• Paul Sewald
• Danny Coulombe

 
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