Twins sign ex-Phillies, Dodgers 4.11 ERA reliever who was released by Mets

The Minnesota Twins made an addition to their bullpen depth on Tuesday, signing a 14-year veteran to a minor league contract. 

According to Bobby Nightengale of the Minnesota Star Tribune, the AL Central club agreed to a deal with right-hander Luis Garcia. Nightengale adds that he will report to Triple-A St. Paul. 

The 39-year-old signed a $1.75 million contract with the New York Mets during the offseason but was released after just six outings. Garcia has played for nine different organizations since making his Major League debut in 2013 with the Philadelphia Phillies. 

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As noted, his stint with the Mets did not go according to plan. Garcia allowed five earned runs and 11 hits in just 6.1 innings.

New York had designated him for assignment earlier this month, but he cleared waivers and entered free agency. 

For the Twins, there's no harm in giving him a shot to see if he can help in the Majors. Garcia throws just three pitches -- a sinker, splitter, and sweeper. His average fastball velocity of 97.2 mph in 2023 is now down to 94 mph. 

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