The Minnesota Twins made a significant roster move, designating right-hander Simeon Woods Richardson for assignment. John Klein has been called up from Triple-A to fill the gap, leaving 38 players on the Twins’ 40-man roster.
Woods Richardson struggled this season, posting a high 7.74 ERA across 47 2/3 innings. His strikeout rate was almost balanced by walks, with 26 K’s and 25 walks. Though he had some relief appearances without allowing runs, his overall performance didn’t inspire confidence. He allowed five runs in just 2 2/3 innings in his recent start against the White Sox, a game the Twins lost 6-2.
A few statistics reveal more about Woods Richardson’s challenges. His .339 BABIP (Batting Average on Balls in Play) and low 57.9% strand rate suggest he faced both bad luck and bigger issues. Surprisingly, despite these numbers, his 5.74 SIERA (Skill Interactive ERA) points to deeper problems than just fortune. He has also given up nine home runs this year, illustrating ongoing issues with keeping the ball in the park.
In his career, Woods Richardson has a 4.76 ERA with the Twins over 302 1/3 innings. His this-season strikeout rate has dipped to 11.5%, concerning for a pitcher who struggled to miss bats even before 2026. Moreover, an increase in the use of his splitter has not been effective, making it one of the least successful pitches in baseball.
Historically, Woods Richardson was once a promising top-100 prospect in the Blue Jays’ system. He had a solid 2024-25 season for the Twins, recording a 4.11 ERA over 245 innings. He came over in a trade that sent José Berríos to Toronto, alongside Austin Martin.
Despite his current difficulties, Woods Richardson, still only 25 and not yet eligible for arbitration, could attract interest from other teams searching for pitching depth. With some adjustments, he might reinvent himself with a new club, perhaps focusing on a relief role.
Meanwhile, the Twins face more pitching challenges. Kendry Rojas was recently placed on the 15-day injured list with elbow inflammation, further thinning their rotation. They also lost Pablo López to Tommy John surgery, and David Festa has been sidelined with triceps and shoulder issues, while Mick Abel hasn’t pitched since mid-April due to elbow problems.
With these injuries mounting, the Twins must navigate a tough road ahead in the 2026 season.
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john klein,simeon woods richardson
