After posting the second-worst bullpen ERA (5.60) in Major League Baseball through May 9, the Twins' relievers have been much better lately, sporting the 13th-best ERA (3.25) from May 10-30. But even with their improved bullpen, the Twins should still look to acquire relievers they believe can further enhance their roster. Minnesota could easily demote relievers with options like Kody Funderburk and Travis Adams to clear space if they find any available relievers from outside of the organization. One reliever whom the Twins should consider signing is Red Sox minor leaguer Tommy Kahnle, who is expected to look for a new team if he isn't added to Boston's roster before his June 1 opt-out date, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com.
After hurling two scoreless innings for Team Israel during the 2026 World Baseball Classic, Kahnle, 36, has posted a 1.40 ERA with 21 strikeouts in 19 1/3 innings at Triple-A Worcester this season. While he's been successful in the minors this year, it's worth noting he has a poor 13.3% walk rate.
The Twins may as well give Kahnle a chance if he triggers his looming opt-out. While he's older than the average player, Kahnle recorded an outstanding 2.11 ERA with 46 strikeouts over 42 2/3 innings with the New York Yankees just two seasons ago. In 11 big-league seasons since 2014, Kahnle posted a 3.61 ERA with a 27.4% strikeout rate.
In addition to the Yankees (2017-20 & 2023-22), the right-hander has logged innings with the Colorado Rockies (2014-15), Chicago White Sox (2016-17), Los Angeles Dodgers (2022) and Detroit Tigers (2025). Kahnle notably regressed last season, sporting a 4.43 ERA with an 18.7% strikeout rate in 63 innings. However, his strong stretch in the minors this season is a reason for Minnesota to at least consider signing him if he opts out of his deal with Boston.
Kahnle relies heavily on changeup
Kahnle's fastball is sitting at 93 mph this season, which is slightly down from last year (93.5 mph). However, his changeup has long been his best pitch. Last season, Kahnle's changeup posted a +4 Run Value. He's thrown the pitch at a 63.4% clip in the minors this year. The right-hander threw the pitch at least 72% of the time in each of the last four seasons. Kahnle's fastball and changeup are his only two pitches.
Since the Red Sox's bullpen has been one of the few bright spots for the team, Boston doesn't necessarily need Kahnle. However, given his experience, the team may not want to lose him.
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