The Minnesota Twins have bolstered their bullpen with a trio of veteran signings and a trade, adding depth to their pitching staff. On February 12, 2026, the Twins signed right-handed pitchers Liam Hendriks and Julian Merryweather to minor league contracts, inviting them to major league spring training. Additionally, they acquired left-hander Anthony Banda from the Los Angeles Dodgers in a trade, providing a much-needed boost to their bullpen. This strategic move comes as the Twins aim to strengthen their pitching depth and potentially improve their chances of success in the upcoming season.
Liam Hendriks, a 37-year-old three-time All-Star, has faced numerous challenges in recent years due to injuries. Despite his limited appearances over the last three seasons, Hendriks brings valuable experience and a strong track record. He made his major league debut in 2011 and has since pitched for five different teams, most recently the Boston Red Sox. However, his 2025 season was cut short due to right hip inflammation, and he was diagnosed with a serious health condition after the 2022 season, requiring Tommy John ligament replacement surgery.
Anthony Banda, a 32-year-old left-hander, had an impressive 2025 season, posting a 3.18 ERA in a career-high 71 games for the World Series champion Dodgers. His performance earned him a spot on the Twins' 40-man roster, as he became one of only 12 left-handed pitchers in MLB with a sub-3.15 ERA and a sub-.215 opponent batting average over the last two seasons. Banda's addition provides the Twins with a reliable left-handed option for their bullpen.
Julian Merryweather, a 34-year-old right-hander, has also been a part of the Twins' pitching rotation in recent years. He has pitched for the Chicago Cubs in parts of the last three seasons, showcasing his versatility and experience. The Twins' decision to sign these three players demonstrates their commitment to building a strong and resilient pitching staff, which could significantly impact their performance and success in the upcoming season.
