In what has turned out to be a relatively quick process, Twins pitcher Andrew Albers appears set to join the Hanwha Eagles of the Korean Baseball Association after being released by the Twins today.
The story of Albers’ impending trip overseas crossed the wire about a week ago, a move that writers praised at the time as smart since Albers had little chance to make the Twins rotation this year with the additions of well-paid names Ricky Nolasco and Phil Hughes.
He is expected to make $500,000 in his year in with the Eagles after clearing waivers Thursday.
Albers started 10 games for Minnesota at the end of last year, and his 17 2/3 scoreless inning streak to begin his big league career with Minnesota served as one of the few bright spots in an otherwise gloomy 2013.
The streak is a franchise record and fell just seven-plus innings short of setting the Major League record for scoreless innings to begin a career by a starter. He was also the sixth pitcher ever, and first in 51 years, to go eight-plus innings in his first two big league starts and not allow a run.
