The Minnesota Twins announced today that they have selected the contract of right-handed pitcher Oliver Ortega from Triple-A St. Paul.
Ortega, 26, has appeared in 16 games for the Saints this season, going 3-0 with a 2.42 ERA (22.1 IP, 6 ER), two saves, seven walks, 28 strikeouts, a 1.03 WHIP and a .203 (16-for-79) opponent batting average, including striking out 11 of his last 27 batters faced since June 8. The 6-foot, 204-pound right-hander was originally acquired by the Twins via waiver claim on January 6 from the Los Angeles Angels. The Nagua, Dominican Republic native made his major league debut on September 8, 2021 and has appeared in 35 major league games across parts of two seasons with the Angels from 2021-22, going 2-3 with a 3.95 ERA (43.1 IP, 19 ER), 20 walks and 37 strikeouts.
To make room for Ortega on the 26-man roster, the Twins have optioned right-handed pitcher Louie Varland to St. Paul. Varland has made 10 starts over two stints with the Twins this season, going 3-3 with a 5.30 ERA (56.0 IP, 33 ER), 16 walks and 54 strikeouts.
To make room for Ortega on the 40-man roster, the Twins have designated outfielder Kyle Garlick for release or assignment. Garlick has played in 14 games over three stints with the Twins this season, hitting .179 (5-for-28) with one double, two home runs, four RBI, two runs scored and two walks.
(info courtesy of Twins)
