Minnesota Twins right-handed pitcher Justin Topa (shoulder) is dealing with shoulder tightness and is set to play catch later on Saturday to determine the extent of the injury. The 34-year-old was removed from a spring training contest on Wednesday due to this injury. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status as he could be sidelined if the injury is serious. Last season, Topa logged just two 1/3 innings of work in the major leagues as he spent most of the season on the injured list due to left patellar tendinitis and a tear in his left patellar tendon. During the 2023 campaign, the 34-year-old posted a strong 2.61 ERA with a 1.14 WHIP across 69 innings of work. When he does return to the mound, fantasy managers should expect him to compete for a middle-relief role in the Minnesota bullpen.
The Minnesota Twins acquired right-handers Anthony DeSclafani and Justin Topa, along with prospects Gabriel Gonzalez and right-hander Darren Bowen, in a four-player package from the Seattle Mariners on Monday in exchange for second baseman Jorge Polanco, according to sources. Cash is also believed to be involved in the deal. DeSclafani and outfielder Mitch Haniger were acquired by the M's from the Giants for lefty Robbie Ray earlier this offseason. The 33-year-old made only 19 starts in 2023 and may not be ready for the start of the 2024 season due to a right flexor strain. He'll provide depth for the Twins' rotation when he's ready. Topa, 32, had a 2.61 ERA and 1.14 WHIP with 61 K's in 69 innings over a career-high 75 appearances for Seattle in 2023. He should be tasked with a high-leverage role in the back of Minnesota's bullpen. Gonzalez, 20, made it to Single-A Modesto in 2023 and has some real promise at the plate as an outfielder. Bowen, 22, had a 3.88 ERA and 1.09 WHIP with 59 K's in 55 2/3 innings at Modesto in his first minor-league season.
Seattle Mariners relief pitcher Justin Topa was called up to hold a two-run lead against the Houston Astros on Sunday. Normally, Paul Sewald is tasked with closing down games, but he was unavailable for this game. That being said, Topa was given a chance to shut the door. He allowed a leadoff single to Yordan Alvarez, but managed to get a double play and struck out Kyle Tucker to record his first career save. A nice accomplishment for the 32-year-old reliever, but fantasy managers shouldn't expect Topa to get many more chances while Sewald is healthy.
Justin Topa
• RP
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Twins
