Twins Trade Pitcher Chris Paddack to Tigers Before Deadline

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Minnesota Twins are beginning their roster sell-off, trading pitcher Chris Paddack to the Detroit Tigers in a deal confirmed by multiple sources. This trade signals a transitional phase for the Twins as they approach the MLB trade deadline on Thursday.

Paddack, who has faced injuries and surgery in recent years, posted a 4.95 ERA in 21 starts this season with a record of 3-9. After recovering from Tommy John surgery, he has demonstrated improved fastball velocity and consistency, making every start in 2025.

The Tigers are looking to bolster their rotation for a playoff push. Tarik Skubal leads their pitching staff, with other capable arms like Casey Mize, Reese Olson, and Jack Flaherty. However, they have struggled to fill a fifth starter role since Jackson Jobe‘s injury, making Paddack a valuable addition.

Paddack’s transition to starting was rocky last season, but he showed promise in the postseason as a reliever for the Twins. He holds a low walk rate, having issued two or fewer walks in 19 of his starts this year. This skill has helped him limit opponents in many games.

The Twins, amid a disappointing season, have decided to embrace a seller’s mentality. Alongside Paddack, the team is also expected to trade outfielder Harrison Bader and utility player Willi Castro before the deadline. Their focus now shifts to potential deals involving arbitration-eligible players.

In exchange for Paddack, the Tigers are sending 19-year-old minor league catcher/first baseman Enrique Jiménez to the Twins. Jiménez has displayed significant offensive potential in the Tigers’ system and is regarded as a promising prospect.

Paddack’s tenure with the Twins has been mixed, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by injuries. The trade reflects the team’s strategy to rebuild and focus on future talent, while also freeing up salary as they part ways with the pitcher.

The deal is a calculated risk for both teams as they navigate their respective challenges as MLB approaches the trade deadline.