Minnesota Twins Make Roster Move: Simeon Woods Richardson Designated, John Klein Recalled
The Minnesota Twins have made a strategic adjustment to their roster, recalling right-handed pitcher John Klein from Triple-A St. Paul while designating Simeon Woods Richardson for assignment. This move comes as the team looks to reshape its pitching depth ahead of the pivotal stretch of the 2026 season.
John Klein’s Return to the Majors
Klein, a native of Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, is set to make his second stint with the Twins after previously appearing in four games for the Saints in the 2026 season. During his time with Triple-A St. Paul, he posted a 3.65 ERA over 12.1 innings, allowing five runs with six hits, five walks, and 16 strikeouts. His performance included a 0.89 WHIP and a .143 opponent batting average.
Klein’s debut with the Twins occurred on May 2 against the Toronto Blue Jays, where he pitched 1.0 scoreless inning. His return to the 26-man roster aims to bolster the team’s bullpen, as the Twins seek to address inconsistencies in their pitching staff.
Simeon Woods Richardson’s Struggles
The decision to designate Woods Richardson for assignment stems from his challenging performance this season. The right-handed pitcher appeared in 12 games (10 starts) for the Twins, posting a 7.74 ERA over 47.2 innings. He allowed 41 runs, walked 25 batters, and struck out 26, with an opponent batting average of .330.
Woods Richardson’s first stint with the Twins saw him go 0-1 with a 7.71 ERA in 2.1 innings, highlighting the difficulties he faced at the major league level. The Twins’ move reflects their need to explore alternative options as they navigate the challenges of the 2026 campaign.
Context of the Roster Adjustment
The roster change aligns with the Twins’ broader strategy to balance immediate needs with long-term development. With Klein’s recall, the team aims to provide a fresh perspective to its pitching corps, while Woods Richardson’s assignment opens the door for potential trade opportunities or a return to the minors for further refinement.
As the Twins prepare for their upcoming schedule, the move underscores the competitive nature of MLB rosters and the constant evaluation of player performance. Fans will be watching closely to see how these adjustments impact the team’s trajectory in the 2026 season.