MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Twins made a roster move Wednesday, trading right-handed reliever Jorge Alcalá to the Boston Red Sox in exchange for minor league infielder/outfielder Andy Lugo.
Alcalá’s Struggles Lead to Trade
Alcalá, 29, had a difficult 2025 season with the Twins, posting an 8.88 ERA in 22 appearances out of the bullpen. His final outing with Minnesota came in Tuesday’s 16-4 loss to the Texas Rangers, where he surrendered five runs (four earned) in just one inning of work.
Originally signed by the Houston Astros in 2014, Alcalá joined the Twins in 2018 as part of the Ryan Pressly trade. He made his MLB debut in 2019 and had his best season in 2021, appearing in 59 games with a 3.92 ERA. After missing most of 2022 and 2023 due to injuries, he bounced back in 2024 with a solid 3.24 ERA in 54 appearances. However, his 2025 performance saw him allow three or more runs in five separate outings, leading to Minnesota’s decision to move on.
Red Sox Add Bullpen Depth
Boston, seeking bullpen reinforcements, will hope a change of scenery helps Alcalá regain his 2024 form. To make room for him on the 40-man roster, the Red Sox designated right-hander Brian Van Belle for assignment. Van Belle, 27, had been called up on June 9 but had yet to appear in a game for Boston this season.
Twins Acquire Versatile Prospect Andy Lugo
In return, Minnesota receives 21-year-old Andy Lugo, who was batting .265 with four home runs and 20 RBIs in 44 games for High-A Greenville this season. Lugo, primarily an infielder, has played first base (21 starts) and third base (16 starts) in 2025 but also has experience in the outfield.
Lugo, signed by Boston as an international free agent in 2021, has shown decent contact skills and defensive versatility in the minors. While not a top-tier prospect, he provides Minnesota with organizational depth.
Twins Call Up Joey Wentz to Replace Alcalá
To fill Alcalá’s spot on the 26-man roster, the Twins claimed left-handed pitcher Joey Wentz off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates. Wentz, 26, has a career 6.62 ERA in 45 MLB games (21 starts) with the Tigers and Pirates. Minnesota will hope he can provide lefty relief depth in a bullpen that has struggled at times this season.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
- Red Sox: Alcalá will join a bullpen that ranks middle-of-the-pack in ERA (4.12). If he can regain his 2024 form, he could be a useful middle-inning arm.
- Twins: Lugo will report to a Twins minor league affiliate, while Wentz gets an opportunity in a new environment.
This trade reflects Minnesota’s willingness to cut ties with underperforming veterans while adding young talent, while Boston takes a low-risk chance on a reliever with past success.
Final Thought:
For Alcalá, this trade could be a fresh start. For the Twins, it’s a chance to develop a versatile prospect while addressing immediate bullpen needs. Only time will tell who benefits most from this deal.
