Luis Garcia -- General News

The Twins made roster moves to address a right shoulder strain sidelining pitcher Garrett Acton, selecting the contract of veteran right-hander Luis García from their minor league system and designating right-hander Zak Kent for assignment. García, 39, began the 2025 season with the Mets on a $1.75MM deal but was released after six poor appearances with diminished velocity. The Mets retain financial responsibility for his remaining salary while the Twins pay only the prorated league minimum. In two Triple-A appearances with Minnesota, García posted a 1.00 ERA over 2 innings with his sinker velocity recovering to 96.2 mph. The 39-year-old was effective last season across three organizations, posting a 3.42 ERA with a strong 49.7% ground ball rate, though his strikeout and walk rates were subpar. Kent, 28, is being designated after appearing in just two games with Minnesota this season, allowing two earned runs in 3⅔ innings. The journeyman pitcher cycled through waivers this offseason (Guardians to Cardinals to Rangers to Cardinals to Twins) and carries a 4.64 ERA in 21⅓ career innings. The transaction represents minimal financial commitment for Minnesota given García's minor league deal status and Kent's marginal MLB performance.

The New York Mets officially released pitcher Luis Garcia on Tuesday, April 15, 2026, after removing him from the 40-man roster. Garcia passed through waivers unclaimed, making him a free agent. The 39-year-old pitcher struggled in his early 2026 season, allowing five earned runs on 11 hits with a 4:2 strikeout-to-walk ratio across 6.1 innings pitched. Given his age and recent performance, Garcia is expected to pursue a minor-league contract if he wishes to continue his professional baseball career. This move comes after Garcia was part of the Mets' Opening Day bullpen roster earlier in the season.