Twins' closer Glen Perkins out with a left shoulder strain

The Minnesota Twins will be without their closer for at least a little while as Glen Perkins has been transferred to the 15-day disabled list with a strained left shoulder.

The 33-year old reliever has been entrusted with the closer job for the past four seasons, and has proved reliable despite some injuries.

With a roster spot available, the Twins have made a corresponding move to call up fellow left-handed reliever Taylor Rogers from Triple-A Rochester. The 25-year old started 27 games in Triple-A last season, and is believed to have the durability and pitch selection to be an effective starter. However, it appears his first kick at the major leagues will be from the bullpen, as he has been especially great against left-handed hitters in the minors. Coming into 2016, he was ranked as the 13th-best prospect in the Twins system by MLB.com

While the closer seat is vacant, it appears the incumbent will be Kevin Jepsen. Acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays at the deadline last season in one of the only roster moves the Twins made at the time, Jepsen and has been very reliable. In his more than 30 innings with the team, Jepsen has struck out 28 batters, walked only 8, and allowed only one home run. There is little doubt that he will make a capable fill-in.

The worry might be in the residual impact of Perkins' absence. That is to say, all other relievers will be called upon more as well. That being said, there isn't much to worry about there either. With Trevor May, Casey Fien, and Ryan Pressly looking sharp, the Twins bullpen appears stable enough to sustain the injury to Perkins with grace. It just might mean taking care of key lefties will be relegated to the rookie, Rogers.