Twins activate LHP Perkins, call up RHP Slegers for debut
One-time closer Glen Perkins, who has pitched just two games in the last two seasons, is back with the Minnesota Twins.
The left-handed reliever, who had offseason shoulder surgery, was activated by the Twins on Thursday and Dietrich Enns was placed on the 10-day disabled list with a shoulder strain.
In addition, the Twins announced that Aaron Slegers will make his major-league debut in the nightcap of Thursday's split doubleheader against Cleveland. He will serve as the 26th man for Minnesota.
Perkins pitched eight games while on a rehabilitation assignment, totaling 7 1/3 innings while allowing five runs on six hits and five walks with 10 strikeouts. His rehab was delayed until July due to biceps tendinitis.
A three-time All-Star, Perkins served as Minnesota's closer since late in 2012 until he was injured in 2015, recording 120 saves during that span.
Perkins pitched in just two games last year and eventually had surgery to repair a torn labrum.
It remains to be seen what role Perkins will be use in, but Minnesota has mainly used Matt Belisle in the closer's role since trading Brandon Kintzler, although Trevor Hildenberger also has a save.
Enns, who was acquired from the Yankees earlier this summer in the Jaime Garcia trade, made two appearances for the Twins with one start. He allowed four runs (three earned) in four innings.
The 24-year-old Slegers will become the 14th different pitcher to make a start for the Twins in 2017.
In 21 starts for Triple-A Rochester this season, Slegers owns a 13-4 record with a 3.18 ERA and 97 strikeouts in 130 1/3 innings.
