Full Breakdown
Twins Acquire Left-Handed Reliever A.J. Minter from Mets
7/31/2026, 9:47:59 PM
Trade Overview
The Minnesota Twins added left-handed reliever A.J. Minter to their roster in exchange for two minor-league infielders, third-base prospect Billy Amick and middle-infielder Bruin Agbayani. The transaction was completed ahead of the Major League Baseball trade deadline in early August. The move addresses Minnesota’s bullpen depth after a season-ending left-lat strain sidelined Anthony Banda in June.
Player and Prospect Profiles
A.J. Minter, a 33-year-old former second-round 2015 draft pick of the Atlanta Braves, signed a two-year, $22 million contract with the New York Mets in 2025. His 2024 season with the Braves ended early because of a torn labrum in his left hip, and his 2025 campaign was cut short after 13 appearances due to left-lat surgery. He did not make his 2026 season debut until May 26, more than a year after his previous major-league appearance.
Billy Amick, a 23-year-old second-round 2024 draft pick, batted .217 with 23 home runs in 86 Double-A games for Wichita, playing primarily at first and third base. Bruin Agbayani, 19, is the son of former Mets outfielder Benny Agbayani. He hit .268 in 10 low-Class A games for Fort Myers this season but has been limited by injuries.
Statistical Impact
Minter entered the trade with a 2.35 ERA over 23 innings, striking out 20 batters and issuing only two walks. He recorded a 1-1 win-loss line, a 1.00 WHIP and one hold in 23 appearances. Over his career, he has posted a 3.18 ERA with 456 strikeouts in 382 2/3 innings across 420 games. The Twins’ bullpen, which ranked fifth-worst in the majors with a 4.92 relief ERA, leads the American League in runs scored and sits one game out of a wild-card position.
Context and Implications
The trade follows a broader pattern of New York Mets players being moved before the deadline, reflecting the club’s position near the bottom of the National League standings. For Minnesota, acquiring a proven left-handed late-inning option bolsters a bullpen that has struggled with consistency, supporting a late-season push for postseason contention.
Upcoming Deadline
The trade deadline, set for early August, marks the final opportunity for teams to reshape rosters before the postseason race intensifies. Both clubs are expected to make additional moves as the deadline approaches.
