As the 2024 MLB season rolls on, we often get lost in the excitement of new acquisitions and standout performances. However, it’s equally important to remember the players who were part of the Minnesota Twins’ Opening Day roster but have faded from the spotlight. Let’s take a closer look at some of these individuals, reflecting on where they stand now and how their 2024 seasons unfolded.
Outfielder/First Baseman Alex Kirilloff
Alex Kirilloff, once a promising first-round pick, made his major league debut amid the intensity of the playoffs back in 2020. Over the next few seasons, he showcased flashes of brilliance, earning an OPS+ of 116 in 88 games during the 2023 campaign. Unfortunately, the struggles with injuries took their toll, ultimately leading to his decision to retire after the 2024 season. While it’s a tough ending to a career filled with potential, we can appreciate his contributions to the Twins over his nine years in the organization. Here’s wishing him all the best as he embarks on the next chapter of his life.
Outfielder Manuel Margot
Margot joined the Twins as part of a trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers, stepping into a role as a right-handed hitter with the versatility to cover centerfield, particularly when Byron Buxton needed a break. However, his season was notably marred by a poor streak as he went 0-for-30 in pinch-hitting appearances, a dubious record he’ll likely want to forget. His struggles were reflective of a broader downturn, finishing the season with a bWAR of minus-0.9. Despite showing some life against left-handed pitching with a .713 OPS, his overall performance wasn’t enough to hold onto his spot. With the Twins now adding Harrison Bader in free agency, Margot’s time in Minnesota has come to an end.
Right-Handed Pitcher Louis Varland
Louis Varland’s journey is one of resilience. While you may recall that he was a fourth starter coming out of camp last year, his early performance was a struggle, leading to a rough 0-4 record with a 9.18 ERA across his first four starts. After spending a significant portion of the season in Triple-A, Varland did show promise, striking out 96 batters over 83.1 innings. This late-season improvement could signal a shift in his role, possibly positioning him as a late-inning relief option rather than a starter moving forward.
Left-Handed Pitcher Steven Okert
Acquired in a trade from the Miami Marlins, Okert was expected to bolster the bullpen as a second or third left-handed option. However, his stint was marked by inconsistency, with a 5.09 ERA and a FIP that mirrored his struggles. The Twins designated him for assignment in August, effectively cutting short his time in Minnesota. Now with the Houston Astros, he’ll be looking to refine his game and potentially become a more reliable asset out of the bullpen.
Right-Handed Pitcher Jay Jackson
Jay Jackson’s tenure with the Twins didn’t go as planned. Signed as a veteran presence, he failed to replicate the success he had with the Toronto Blue Jays the previous year, managing just 26.1 innings over 20 appearances before being released in July. Now seeking a fresh start, he’s signed on to play in Mexico, with hopes of returning to the MLB stage before he hangs up his cleats.
Left-Handed Pitcher Kody Funderburk
Funderburk began the season full of promise but faced the ups and downs common to young pitchers. After debuting impressively in 2023, he was unable to maintain that momentum in 2024, leading to a 6.49 ERA over 34.1 innings pitched. With a solid strikeout rate in the minors, there’s still a chance for him to find success. Look for him to start in Triple-A St. Paul and possibly earn a call-up later in the season.
Right-Handed Pitcher Daniel Duarte
Daniel Duarte’s season was derailed early on when he underwent elbow surgery after just four innings pitched. The right-hander, who was previously claimed off waivers from the Texas Rangers, is still part of the Twins organization but will miss much of the 2025 season as he recovers. There’s optimism he could return towards the end of the year, eyes set on vying for a bullpen role during 2026 Spring Training.
In the whirlwind of the season, it’s easy for these players to become mere footnotes. Yet each has had a journey worth remembering, and their stories contribute to the ever-evolving narrative of the Twins. Whether they’re currently with the organization or moving on to new opportunities, the impact of these athletes is undeniable.
