Taylor Rogers Returns to Minnesota Twins on One-Year Deal

The Minnesota Twins have signed left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers to a one-year contract worth $2 million, marking his return to the team that drafted him in 2012. This move comes as the Twins seek to strengthen their bullpen after a challenging 2025 season, where they recorded a 70-92 record and faced significant struggles in their pitching staff.

Twins Secure Taylor Rogers SigningBREAKING: Twins Sign Left-Handed Reliever Taylor Rogers to One-Year DealTwins reuinte with All-Star Taylor Rogers in free agencyTaylor Rogers, Twins Agree to ReunionSports IllustratedReport: Rogers returns to Twins on one-year deal

Rogers, now 35, previously spent six seasons with the Twins from 2016 to 2021, where he achieved notable success, including an All-Star selection in 2021. In the 2025 season, he played for both the Cincinnati Reds and the Chicago Cubs, posting a combined 3.38 ERA over 50.2 innings with 53 strikeouts. Despite a decline in his strikeout rate and an increase in walks, Rogers remains a versatile option for the Twins, particularly as a middle reliever.

Report: Rogers returns to Twins on one-year dealTwins Secure Taylor Rogers SigningBREAKING: Twins Sign Left-Handed Reliever Taylor Rogers to One-Year DealSports IllustratedTaylor Rogers, Twins Agree to ReunionSports Illustrated

The Twins' bullpen was significantly weakened following a series of trades during the 2025 season, which included the departure of five relievers. This left the team with one of the worst bullpen ERAs in Major League Baseball. Rogers' experience and familiarity with the organization are expected to provide stability as the Twins look to rebuild their pitching depth. He is anticipated to play a crucial role, potentially stepping into high-leverage situations or even save opportunities.

Twins Secure Taylor Rogers SigningBREAKING: Twins Sign Left-Handed Reliever Taylor Rogers to One-Year DealTaylor Rogers, Twins Agree to ReunionTwins reuinte with All-Star Taylor Rogers in free agencyReport: Rogers returns to Twins on one-year dealSports Illustrated

Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic noted that the signing of Rogers is a "logical fit for both sides," emphasizing the need for bullpen help within the Twins organization. Derek Falvey, the Twins' president of baseball operations, acknowledged the importance of integrating experienced players while also relying on younger talent to step up in the bullpen.

Twins reuinte with All-Star Taylor Rogers in free agency

While Rogers brings experience, there are concerns regarding his recent performance trends, including a decline in velocity and command. Critics question whether he can regain his previous effectiveness, especially given his high walk rate and reduced strikeout capabilities. The Twins may still need to pursue additional bullpen options to ensure a competitive edge.

Twins Secure Taylor Rogers Signing

With the signing of Rogers, the Twins are expected to continue exploring further bullpen reinforcements. Reports indicate interest in other free-agent relievers, including Seranthony Dominguez, as they aim to enhance their pitching staff ahead of the 2026 season.

Twins Secure Taylor Rogers Signing

• “Twins are reuniting with former All-Star closer Taylor Rogers on a one-year, $2 million contract. Logical fit for both sides, as the 35-year-old Rogers returns home to the team that drafted him and the Twins add some much-needed bullpen help,” — Aaron Gleeman, The Athletic

Twins reuinte with All-Star Taylor Rogers in free agency

Rogers' return to the Twins represents a strategic effort to address the team's bullpen deficiencies while leveraging his experience to foster a more competitive environment in the upcoming season.

Twins Secure Taylor Rogers Signing