Minnesota Twins Dealing with Multiple Serious Injuries, Including to Star Closer

The Minnesota Twins have gotten some bad news on Monday regarding the health of their pitching staff.

Per Bobby Nightengale of the Minnesota Star-Tribune:

Anthony DeSclafani was shut down with a right elbow flexor strain and will visit Dr. Keith Meister to evaluate his next steps, which could include elbow surgery, Twins President of Baseball Operations Derek Falvey said Monday.

(Closer Johan) Duran is sidelined with a moderate right oblique strain, which occurred when he was warming up to throw a live batting practice session Sunday, and he will be placed on the 15-day injured list. Caleb Thielbar, who has yet to pitch in a Grapefruit League game, continues to be slowed by hamstring soreness.

Duran would seem to be ticketed for a lengthier absence considering that team is labeling the injury "moderate."

The 26-year-old is one of the most electric closers in baseball so not having him will be a devastating blow for Minnesota early on. He went 3-6 last season with a 2.45 ERA, striking out 84 batters in 62.1 innings. He had 27 saves.

Lifetime, Duran is 5-10 with a 2.15 ERA. He has 35 saves. Griffin Jax could be in line for saves in his absence.

DeSclafani had seemed to have a hold on the fifth starters spot since being acquired in a trade this offseason from the Seattle Mariners,

DeSclafani is 33-years-old and has pitched in parts of nine seasons with the Marlins, Reds and Giants. He's 54-56 lifetime with a 4.20 ERA. He won 13 games back in the 2021 season for the Giants.