Ranking the Minnesota Twins starting rotation

#4 – Martin Perez

This one was a tough decision for me given how incredible Martin Perez has looked at times this year. I must admit, Perez has been one heck-of-a pleasant surprise and I couldn’t be happier with the way he has pitched. That said, after a blistering start to the season, Perez has cooled off a bit with his ERA climbing to 4.09 on the year.

Martin has 74 strikeouts in 77 innings pitched proving he can miss bats when needed which bodes well for a guy trying to keep his spot as a starter. Showing an improved ability to miss bats given that in 838 career innings pitched he has 536 total strikeouts, is massive for the Minnesota Twins. A team that has struggled in recent years finding strikeout pitchers, if Perez keeps it up, he may be a guy the Twins look to keep around for years to come.

It’s no secret that Perez added a cutter to his arsenal this year in order to try to switch up the looks he was giving hitters. It seems to be paying off because at times, the guy looks truly untouchable. After moving to the bullpen for part of 2018 with the Texas Rangers, Perez wanted to get back to being a starter.

Signing with the Twins and connecting with familiar face Thad Levine, Perez was given that opportunity. So far, it seems to be paying off and should continue to as Perez looks to be a factor in the starting rotation for a playoff contender.