MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MN – In a significant move to bolster their pitching staff, the Minnesota Twins have officially signed right-handed pitcher Josh Staumont to a one-year contract for the upcoming 2024 season. This acquisition comes as a strategic effort by the Twins to strengthen their bullpen with Staumont’s impressive strikeout capabilities.
Josh Staumont, a 30-year-old pitcher known for his fastball and high strikeout rate, spent the 2023 season with the Kansas City Royals. During his tenure with the Royals, Staumont appeared in 21 games, including one start, and recorded a 5.40 ERA over 20.0 innings pitched. Notably, he struck out 24 batters, averaging an impressive 10.80 strikeouts per 9.0 innings, and ended the season with a 1.45 WHIP. Despite his potential, Staumont’s season was cut short due to a neck strain that landed him on the 15-day Injured List from June 7, causing him to miss the remainder of the season.
Before his call-up to the Royals in April, Staumont showcased his skills with Triple-A Omaha, pitching 4.0 scoreless innings and securing one save in four appearances. His consistent performance in the minor leagues highlighted his potential as a valuable asset to a major league bullpen.
Hailing from La Habra, California, Staumont was initially drafted by the Royals in the second round of the 2015 First-Year Player Draft from Azusa Pacific University. Since making his major league debut in 2019, he has compiled a career record of 9-7 with a 4.01 ERA over 168.1 innings pitched in 169 games, including one start. Staumont’s career statistics also boast eight saves, 30 holds, 95 walks, and 191 strikeouts, with a .221 opponent batting average.
The signing of Staumont brings the Twins’ 40-man roster to 37 players, which now includes 18 pitchers, three catchers, eight infielders, and eight outfielders. The Twins’ management is confident that Staumont’s addition will provide depth and versatility to their pitching lineup, particularly in high-leverage situations where strikeouts are crucial.
As the Twins prepare for the 2024 season, the addition of Josh Staumont is seen as a key step in their quest for a competitive edge in the league. His ability to deliver strikeouts and navigate tough innings could prove to be a game-changer in the Twins’ bullpen strategy.
