Twins closer Brandon Kintzler was named to his first All-Star Game on Friday, and it’s deserving based on the fact that he’s tied for the American League lead with 23 saves.
Congratulations Brandon Kintzler on being named to the @AllStarGame!
Kintzler is tied for the AL lead in saves with 23. pic.twitter.com/U3FdYVNIMQ
— Minnesota Twins (@Twins) July 7, 2017
It’s the first time since 2009 the Twins will have three representatives at an All-Star Game. The right-hander has had a long road to the Major Leagues and he even pitched for the St. Paul Saints in 2009 before being offered a minor league contract with the Twins in December of 2015.
He took over as the team’s closer mid-season last year after Glen Perkins went down with an injury and Kevin Jepsen was ineffective.
In 38 games this season, Kintzler has an ERA of 2.35 and has struck out 24 batters in 38 innings, while issuing just 8 walks.
