Twins Claim Pitcher Zak Kent Off Waivers

Kent's fourth team this offseason as Twins add bullpen depth after Pablo López injury

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Minnesota Twins have claimed right-handed pitcher Zak Kent off waivers from the St. Louis Cardinals, adding him to their 40-man roster. Kent, 28, has had a busy offseason, being traded or designated by multiple teams including the Cleveland Guardians and Texas Rangers. The Twins are hoping Kent can provide bullpen depth after Pablo López was placed on the 60-day injured list following an internal brace procedure that will sideline him for the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The Twins are looking to build a competitive bullpen after recent injuries and roster moves, and Kent represents a low-risk addition who could potentially contribute if he can refine his control and adapt to the Twins' pitching staff.

The details

Kent made his MLB debut with the Guardians in 2025, pitching 17 2/3 innings with a 4.58 ERA, 21.1% strikeout rate, and 10.5% walk rate. He spent most of the season in Triple-A Columbus, where he had a 2.84 ERA with an impressive 31.4% strikeout rate but also a high 13.2% walk rate. Kent's fastball averages 93.1 mph, and his mid-80s slider and low-80s curveball generated many swings and misses in the minors.

  • The Twins claimed Kent off waivers from the Cardinals on Thursday, February 27, 2026.
  • Pablo López was recently placed on the 60-day injured list after undergoing an internal brace procedure, and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season.

The players

Zak Kent

A 28-year-old right-handed pitcher who has been traded or designated by multiple teams this offseason, including the Cleveland Guardians and Texas Rangers, before being claimed by the Minnesota Twins.

Pablo López

The Twins' starting pitcher who was recently placed on the 60-day injured list after undergoing an internal brace procedure and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

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