The Minnesota Twins have signed right-handed pitcher Germán Márquez to a minor-league contract, adding a seasoned arm with All-Star experience to their organizational depth as the season heads into its final stretch.
Reports from MLB insider Dan Hayes confirmed the move on Thursday, with Márquez set to report to Triple-A St. Paul.
Márquez, 31, became available after the San Diego Padres released him earlier this month. The Padres had signed the Venezuelan right-hander to a one-year deal with a mutual option during the offseason, viewing him as a potential back-end rotation piece following his long tenure with the Colorado Rockies.
In 13 appearances with San Diego this season, including 10 starts, he compiled a 4-2 record with a 5.26 ERA and 1.49 WHIP over 53 innings, striking out 37 batters while walking 24. Underlying metrics suggested the results were somewhat unlucky at times, though home runs remained a concern.
Before joining the Padres, Márquez spent a decade with the Rockies after arriving via trade from the Tampa Bay Rays organization in 2016. He established himself as a reliable starter in Colorado, earning an All-Star selection in 2021 when he posted a 4.40 ERA across 32 starts and 180 innings.
That season highlighted his ability to miss bats, as he recorded 176 strikeouts. Over his career he has made more than 200 starts and logged nearly 1,200 major-league innings, finishing with a 4.70 ERA and over 1,100 strikeouts.
Pitching half his games at Coors Field presented unique challenges, yet he consistently showed durability and a four-pitch mix that included a lively fastball and sharp curveball.
Injuries slowed his progress in recent years. After undergoing Tommy John surgery, Márquez limited action in 2023 and 2024 before returning for a full but difficult 2025 campaign in Colorado, where he struggled to a 6.70 ERA in 26 starts.
The Padres hoped a change of scenery and a less extreme home park would help restore his form, but roster moves at the trade deadline—including the acquisition of Robbie Ray—led to his designation for assignment and eventual release.
For the Twins, the signing represents a low-risk opportunity to evaluate a pitcher with proven major-league innings and postseason experience.
Minnesota has sought additional pitching depth as it navigates the second half, and Márquez offers the chance to rebuild confidence and command in the high minors.
If he performs well in St. Paul, a call-up to the big-league roster remains possible, particularly if the Twins need rotation or long-relief help down the stretch.
At this stage of his career, the veteran will look to prove he still has something left to offer a contending club.
