Right-handed reliever Alan Busenitz has been one of the best arms in the Twins’ bullpen.
Since being recalled on July 25, Busenitz has allowed just two earned runs in 14.2 innings, while piling up 12 strikeouts during that stretch.
Although he’s only a rookie, major leaguers are having a tough time making contact against him.
In the month of August, the 26-year-old faced 45 batters and only four of them registered a hit – that’s an opponent batting average of .093. He also hasn’t allowed a run in nine straight outings.
The Twins acquired Busenitz along with Hector Santiago in the Ricky Nolasco trade from last summer.
At the time of the deal, it was believed that Santiago was going to be the main piece of the trade, but with Santiago battling ineffectiveness and shoulder trouble, it’s Busenitz that’s risen to the occasion.
Alongside Trevor Hildenberger and Taylor Rodgers, the trio is looking like a force to be reckoned with in the bullpen for years to come.
With Minnesota controlling their own destiny in the American League Wild Card race, they’re going to need a strong bullpen down the stretch.
At the beginning of the season, the Twins’ bullpen was one of the worst in the league.
However, over the last month, it’s been one of the best units in baseball. Since Aug. 1, the bullpen has an ERA of 3.46, which is the fifth best in the American League.
