Minnesota Twins Expected to Activate Chris Paddack Very Soon

The Minnesota Twins are playing a three game series vs the Houston Astros this weekend, a worthy test for two of the hottest teams in Major League Baseball. From there, the schedule eases up a bit, starting with a series in Chicago vs the feeble 26-64 White Sox.

Minnesota Twins expected to activate Chris Paddack

The Twins’ starting pitcher for game one on Monday, according to Bobby Nightengale (Star Tribune) is expected to be Chris Paddack. The Sheriff has been on the injured list since June 25, one day after publicly begging the Minnesota coaching staff for a break to cure his self-diagnosed dead arm.

The Twins promoted righthanded reliever Josh Winder for their bullpen Friday. They had an open spot on their active roster after demoting starter David Festa on Thursday. Chris Paddack will likely be activated from the IL on Monday.

Bobby Nightengale – Star Tribune

Not only did the Twins call Josh Winder up on Friday, they pitched him vs the Astros. It didn’t go well. Winder got through the 7th inning, allowing just one run. But in the 8th, he gave up four or five straight hits and multiple runs, before he was pulled.

Most likely, he will be sent down for more relief help this weekend. Then, Paddack will be activated from the IR on Monday. Prior to his stay on the injured list, the 28-year-old Paddack threw 78.1 innings for the 2024 Twins. That’s the most he has thrown in a season since 2021. There’s no doubt Chris has the stuff. But can he use that stuff to become a really good MLB pitcher. That has yet to be proven.