On Tuesday, U.S. time, the Twin Cities moved to strengthen one of their main weak points. According to sources who told MLB.com, the Minnesota Twins have reached an agreement with left-throw backup pitcher Danny Coulombe, which will take effect once the medical is passed. Another source told Mark Feinsund, who MLB.com, that the deal is a one-year deal worth $3 million and comes with a performance bonus. The team has yet to confirm the deal.
The 35-year-old will add much-needed left-hand pitching power to the Twin Cities Bullshed, which is currently dominated by right-hand pitchers. He essentially replaced Caleb Thielbar, who joined the Cubs as a free agent, but based on recent performances, Cullom is seen as an upgrade and a solid late-game option.
The deal is expected to be officially completed within this week. However, the Twin Cities squad is full of 40 players, so they need to adjust accordingly to make room for new recruits.
Cullom played for the Twins from 2020 to 2022 before being traded to the Orioles in March 2023 in exchange for cash compensation. Over the past two seasons, he has established himself as a key bullpen pitcher for the Orioles, making 81 innings in 94 games, with a 2.56 ERA, 90 strikeouts and 17 warranties.
In recent years, he has excelled against left-hand hitters. In 2024, Cullom did not throw a guarantee to any left-hitter and has not allowed a left-hitter to hit a home run since 2021.
With nine days to go until the start of spring training, the Twin Cities still have two major unmet needs. Minnesota has yet to fill the void left by first baseman Carlos Santana, who joined Cleveland as a free agent, and the roster needs a right-handed corner hitter.
The Athletic recently reported that the team may still have "about $5 million" in salary cap space, suggesting that there could be another minor reinforcement. But if they want to sign a starter-caliber player, the Twins may need to cut some of their salary through a trade.
Born in St. Louis and played at Texas Tech University, Cullom has 10 years of experience in the major leagues, with a 3.52 ERA in 288 games in his career, and has played for the Dodgers, Athletics, Twins and Orioles.
Prior to signing Cullom, the Twins had not signed any major league contract free agents in the offseason.