Imagine a baseball team bringing back a familiar face to strengthen their bullpen, only to spark debates about whether it’s a step forward or a nostalgic misstep. That’s exactly what the Minnesota Twins have done by re-signing veteran reliever Taylor Rogers to a 1-year, $2 million contract, while also finalizing a 2-year, $14 million deal with catcher Victor Caratini. But here’s where it gets controversial: is Rogers, now 35 and having pitched for five different teams in the last four years, still the game-changer the Twins need? Let’s dive in.
The Twins, in a move that blends nostalgia with necessity, welcomed back Rogers, who spent his first six major league seasons with the team. During that time, he posted a solid 3.15 ERA across 319 appearances, racking up 361 strikeouts in 314 2/3 innings. His transformation from a starter—drafted in the 11th round in 2012 out of Kentucky—to a reliable reliever, and eventually a closer, culminated in an All-Star nod in 2021. But, as new manager Derek Shelton pointed out, ‘The Taylor Rogers we knew in ’18 and ’19 is going to be different than this guy.’ Shelton, who was the bench coach during Rogers’ first stint, believes Rogers can still make a significant impact, both on the mound and as a leader in the bullpen. But is that enough for a team looking to rebuild its bullpen after trading away their top five relievers last season?
Rogers’ journey since leaving the Twins has been nothing short of a whirlwind. Traded to the San Diego Padres before the 2022 season, he was then shipped to the Milwaukee Brewers at the deadline. A brief reunion with his twin brother, Tyler Rogers, came in 2023 with the San Francisco Giants, followed by stints with the Cincinnati Reds and Chicago Cubs. Despite his travels, Rogers maintains a respectable career ERA of 3.34 across 566 relief appearances, with 626 strikeouts and 83 saves. Yet, the question remains: can he still deliver at an elite level, or is this a sentimental signing?
And this is the part most people miss: the Twins’ bullpen overhaul isn’t just about Rogers. General manager Jeremy Zoll acknowledged that the bullpen was ‘the most obvious area of need coming into the offseason,’ and while Rogers is a step in the right direction, help will come in ‘all shapes and sizes.’ Enter Victor Caratini, a 32-year-old switch-hitter who will not only back up catcher Ryan Jeffers but also provide versatility at first base and designated hitter. Caratini hit .259 in 2025 with the Houston Astros, setting career highs with 12 homers, 46 RBIs, and 386 plate appearances. With a .244 batting average over nine seasons and a catcher ERA of 3.92—eighth best among active catchers—Caratini brings stability and experience. But is he the missing piece the Twins need to contend?
To make room for Rogers and Caratini, the Twins designated right-handed reliever Pierson Ohl and catcher Jhonny Pereda for release or assignment. This reshuffling underscores the team’s commitment to addressing their bullpen woes, but it also raises questions about the depth and long-term strategy. Are the Twins building a championship-caliber bullpen, or are they settling for short-term fixes?
Here’s the controversial question: Is the Twins’ reliance on a 35-year-old reliever and a journeyman catcher a bold move or a sign of desperation? Let us know your thoughts in the comments. Are Rogers and Caratini the right additions, or should the Twins have pursued younger, more dynamic talent? The debate is open—and the 2024 season will be the ultimate judge.
