The Minnesota Twins have strengthened their roster by signing left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers to a one-year, $2 million contract and catcher Victor Caratini to a two-year deal worth $14 million. Both players finalized their contracts after passing physicals at Target Field, aiming to enhance the team’s pitching and catching depth ahead of the upcoming season.
Taylor Rogers Returns to Minnesota to Reinforce Bullpen
Taylor Rogers, 35, is rejoining the Twins, the organization where he began his major league career and made his mark as a dependable closer. During his initial six seasons with Minnesota from 2016 through 2021, Rogers recorded a 3.15 ERA in 319 appearances, striking out 361 batters over 314⅔ innings. He was also selected as an All-Star in 2021, highlighting his status as one of the league’s top relievers.
“The Taylor Rogers we knew in ’18 and ’19 is going to be different than this guy, but he’s still a really good reliever. I think he’s going to have a big impact in our bullpen not only pitching-wise but with the ability to lead our group.”
— Jeremy Zoll, Minnesota Twins General Manager
Rogers’ Diverse Journey Back to His Original Team
Since departing from the Twins before the 2022 season, Rogers has pitched for five different teams, including the San Diego Padres, Milwaukee Brewers, San Francisco Giants, Cincinnati Reds, and Chicago Cubs. Notably, in 2023, he had the rare opportunity to play alongside his twin brother, Tyler Rogers, while with the Giants. Despite moving frequently, Rogers has maintained consistent performance levels and finished last season with a 3.38 ERA, recording 53 strikeouts in 50â…” innings across 57 appearances between the Reds and Cubs.
Rogers’ career statistics showcase his value as a relief pitcher: he holds a 3.34 ERA over 566 relief outings with 626 strikeouts and 83 saves. His signing addresses a crucial gap in the Twins’ bullpen after the team traded away five key relievers during last season’s deadline, including Jhoan Duran and Brock Stewart. Rogers joins veteran pitchers like Cole Sands, Justin Topa, and Kody Funderburk, reinforcing Minnesota’s bullpen, which General Manager Jeremy Zoll has labeled the team’s most pressing area for improvement.
Victor Caratini Brings Experience and Versatility Behind the Plate
The Twins also added catcher Victor Caratini, who signed a two-year contract to provide depth and flexibility. The 32-year-old switch-hitter recently completed a career-best season with the Houston Astros, achieving personal records with 12 home runs, 46 RBIs, and 386 plate appearances while hitting .259. Caratini is expected to back up starting catcher Ryan Jeffers and offer additional defensive strength.
Among active catchers with over 3,500 innings caught, Caratini’s catcher ERA ranks eighth in the majors at 3.92, demonstrating his effectiveness in managing pitching staffs. Throughout his nine major league seasons spanning four organizations, he has maintained a .244 batting average. His combination of experience and defensive skills makes him a valuable asset as the Twins work to solidify their catching corps.
Impact of the Signings on the Twins’ Competitive Outlook
These recent acquisitions underscore Minnesota’s strategy to fill key roster needs without compromising financial flexibility. With spring training on the horizon, both Rogers and Caratini bring not only on-field experience but also leadership qualities that could play a crucial role in the Twins’ pursuit to remain competitive within the challenging American League Central division. Their presence signals a determined effort by Minnesota to build a strong, resilient team capable of contending next season and beyond.
