Cuban left-hander Kendry Rojas delivered a standout performance on Saturday during his rookie season with the Minnesota Twins. In an urgent start, Rojas pitched four scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out five batters.
Initially, Mike Paredes was set to start but was sidelined last minute due to a left oblique strain, prompting Rojas to step up without hesitation.
Rojas retired 12 of the 14 batters he faced, and the bullpen managed the remaining five innings to secure a 2-0 shutout victory over the Athletics.
With this outing, Rojas has now pitched a total of 25.2 innings this season, boasting a 2.81 ERA, 29 strikeouts, and a batting average against of just .195. These statistics underscore his emergence as a key player in Minnesota's pitching lineup.
Originally from Ciego de Ávila and now 23 years old, Rojas made his Major League debut on April 19, 2026, after a challenging journey. He signed with the Toronto Blue Jays in October 2020 for $215,000, faced lat injuries in 2022, an oblique injury in 2025, and climbed through various minor league levels before being traded to Minnesota in July 2025.
While in Double-A with New Hampshire, Rojas struck out 40% of the batters he faced over 18.2 innings, showcasing his potential for the majors.
Ranked as the Twins' eighth prospect before the 2026 season, the lefty has certainly lived up to those high expectations.
Rojas joins a wave of Cuban pitchers making their mark in the MLB this season: Orlando Ribalta debuted with the Nationals on April 14, Franco Alemán impressed the Guardians with his 99 mph fastball, and Luis Danys Morales returned to the Athletics.
Saturday's game against Oakland was a highlight in Rojas's rookie season, demonstrating his maturity and composure under pressure—traits the Minnesota scouts recognized when he joined the team.
Rising Cuban Pitchers in the MLB
How did Kendry Rojas perform in his emergency start for the Twins?
Kendry Rojas pitched four scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out five batters, helping the Twins secure a 2-0 shutout over the Athletics.
What challenges did Rojas face before joining the MLB?
Rojas signed with the Blue Jays for $215,000 in 2020, overcame lat and oblique injuries, and advanced through minor league levels before being traded to the Twins in 2025.