It's no surprise that the Minnesota Twins' bullpen has been one of the best bullpens in Major League Baseball, but within their success, there is an unsung hero who may no longer be a secret. After his struggles in 2024, Louis Varland wasn't exactly at the forefront of the discussion for the Twins' bullpen, but he has become an anchor in 2025.
Through his first 29 appearances this season, Varland has an ERA of 2.73. Suggesting that his breakout season is legitimate, Varland's FIP on the season sits at 3.15. His success led him to be among the leaders in appearances for relief pitchers this season.
It's also no surprise to see Varland listed as the Twins' best-kept secret this season in the latest list revealed by Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report.
While the Twins' offense has been inconsistent this season, success stories like Varland are one of the reasons why they enter June as part of the conversation for the American League Wild Card race.
Louis Varland is becoming a household name in the Twins' bullpen
It would have been difficult to picture Varland as an anchor in the Twins' bullpen this season after the struggles he had in 2024. Making 16 appearances with the Twins, 7 starts, Varland posted an ERA of 7.61 with a -0.4 fWAR. By comparison, Varland has already compiled a 0.5 fWAR this season.
With an exclusive focus on being a relief pitcher, Varland's breakout season appears to be derived from his increased ability to miss bats this season. After striking out just over 20% of the batters he faced last season, Varland's strikeout percentage sits just under 28%. The uptick in strikeout percentage is likely tied to Varland's fastball velocity approaching triple digits this season. Add in that he is walking fewer batters this season, and it's a clear recipe for success.
Varland becoming a mainstay in the bullpen is one of the reasons why the Twins, if they can find offensive consistency, will be a team that can't be overlooked in the Wild Card race this season. The Twins' bullpen is real, and Varland is a big reason why.