Wisler-ing past the graveyard: an unexpected non-tender

Eddie Rosario wasn’t going to be tendered a contract, and we all knew it. Many of us didn’t expect the Twins to move on, and past one of their more effective 2020 relievers. Matt Wisler was acquired via the waiver process from Seattle last off season, the Twins must have liked his slider, as that is their M.O. and that is his top pitch.

Wisler put up 1.0 bWAR in 2020, a total that eclipses his career tally. He made 18 appearances for the Twins, including four that are considered starts. A handful of these were multi-inning affairs, as he racked up 25.1 innings, a pittance in many seasons, but a substantial amount in the abbreviated 2020 season. His ERA was a shiny, sparkly 1.07, although regression is probably coming for him.

Wisler earned a base salary of $725,000 in 2020, although that was obviously pro-rated. He is entering his second year of arbitration, and would have gotten a raise. MLBTR’s estimate suggest he was in line to earn between $1.1 and $1.8 million. While this isn’t a lot of money, the Twins clearly believe they can replicate his performance for a lower cost.

Remaining in the bullpen as hold-overs are Taylor Rogers, Tyler Duffey, and Caleb Thielbar. At this point, Jorge Alcala, Cody Stashak, and other youngsters will need to step up. Still, the stove is hot, and many good players were non-tendered today. It is very likely the Twins acquire more arms this off season, but Matt Wisler seems likely to not be on that list.