Twins pitcher Taj Bradley's promising season has hit an unexpected snag. The right-hander was placed on the 15-day injured list Saturday due to right pectoral inflammation, with the move backdated to Wednesday.
An MRI in Minneapolis revealed no significant structural damage, providing a sigh of relief for the organization. "Any time we get an MRI that comes back clean, that's the best-case scenario," Twins manager Derek Shelton said after a hard-fought 2-1, 11-inning victory over the Cleveland Guardians. "Once we get through the second opinion, we can start a course of action." Bradley is scheduled to consult with Dr. Keith Meister for further evaluation.
This setback comes at a particularly tough time for both Bradley and the Twins. The 26-year-old has been a bright spot in the rotation this season, anchoring the staff with a 4-1 record and an impressive 2.87 ERA across eight starts. In his first full year with Minnesota, the former top prospect—acquired from Tampa Bay last July—leads the team with 52 strikeouts and 47 innings pitched.
The injury compounds an already challenging situation for the Twins' pitching staff. Minnesota now has three-fifths of its starting rotation on the IL, including Pablo López (out for the season after Tommy John surgery) and rookie Mick Abel (battling right elbow inflammation).
Bradley's journey with the Twins began when he was traded from the Rays in exchange for Griffin Jax on July 31. He made just six starts over the final two months of last season, finishing with a combined 6-8 record and 5.05 ERA between both clubs. This year, he appeared to be finding his stride and living up to his prospect pedigree.
To fill the roster spot, the Twins recalled right-hander Travis Adams from Triple-A St. Paul. Bradley was originally scheduled to start Sunday's series finale in Cleveland, but the team will instead turn to right-handed reliever Andrew Morris for a bullpen game.
For now, the Twins and their fans will be hoping for the best as Bradley seeks a second opinion—and a clear path back to the mound.