Relievers Matt Bowman and John Brebbia have opt-out clauses in their minor league contracts with the Minnesota Twins, set to trigger on Sunday. If exercised, the Twins must either promote them to the major league roster or let them sign elsewhere. Bowman boasts a strong 1.77 ERA and 26% strikeout rate in Triple-A, while Brebbia has struggled with a 5.40 ERA across 18 1/3 innings. Both players are facing uncertain futures given the Twins' subpar bullpen performance this season.

By the Numbers
  • Bowman has a 1.77 ERA over 20 1/3 innings at Triple-A St. Paul.
  • Brebbia has a 5.40 ERA in 18 1/3 innings at Triple-A with a near-30% strikeout rate.
State of Play
  • The Twins have the second-highest bullpen ERA at 5.54 in MLB.
  • None of their relievers except Kody Funderburk have an ERA under 4.00 in over 10 innings pitched.
What's Next

If Bowman and Brebbia opt out, the Twins face a decision to either bring them up or lose them to free agency. Their performances could provide much-needed depth as the team looks to improve its struggling bullpen.

Bottom Line

The Twins must act decisively with Bowman and Brebbia to address their bullpen woes. Failing to do so may exacerbate their relief pitching issues, while successfully integrating either pitcher could provide a much-needed boost to their rotation.