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The Twins have signed righty reliever Matt Belisle to a 1-year, $2.05M contract, reports Mike Bernardino of the Pioneer Press.
Belisle recorded a 1.76 ERA in 46 innings pitched last year in Washington. The 36-year old was a solid force in the bullpen, locking in 32 strikeouts and finishing the year with a 1.087 WHIP. Belisle was effective as the Cardinals’ closer in 2015, putting up relatively the same numbers. However, the former second round draft pick does have a pretty heavy weakness: he’s free and easy with walks.
It’s clear that the Twins need to build up their bullpen, and Belisle, who has been a member of five other major league teams, could serve as a strong veteran presence. The Twins won’t likely be in contention for a playoff spot this season. If Belisle keeps up the solid numbers, they can deal him away from fresher arms when the trade deadline rolls around in August. This deal is a low-risk, medium-reward deal for Minnesota and time will tell which way the chips fall.