There are kids and teenagers alike who didn’t have the fortune of watching A.J. Pierzynski launch a 2-run homer against Oakland in Game 5 of the American League Divisional Series back in 2002. It was one of the best moments in Twins’ baseball since the 1991 World Series.
Pierzynski, who supposedly yelled “booyah” as he crossed home plate that day, could reportedly be on his way back to the team he called home from 1998-2003.
According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, it isn’t out of the question that Pierzynski could return for one last hurrah with the Twins.
“Minnesota is expected to look to bring back veteran catcher A.J. Pierzynski, who had another fine offensive year with the bat in Atlanta (who also may be interested). Pierzynski and Kurt Suzuki would make a decent lefty-righty combo behind the plate … The Twins like the idea of getting the old gang back together, and is also hoping that Torii Hunter will return even if he isn’t ticketed to be a starter. He should still get decent playing time, unless top Byron Buxton takes a leap forward off his rough rookie year.”
This past season was Pierzynski’s 18th in the big leagues, and he hit .300 with 9 homers and 49 RBIs in 113 games with the Atlanta Braves.
Pierzynski last played for the Twins in 2003. He was traded to the Giants after the season in a deal that brought Joe Nathan, Francisco Liriano and Boof Bonser to Minnesota.
A.J. Pierzynski threw out 24% of would be base stealers in 2015. Not great, but Kurt Suzuki threw out 15% #MNTwins
— Ted (@tlschwerz) October 23, 2015
Jon Heyman says Twins are interested in signing A.J. Pierzynski. I'd be in favor if he serves as their TV analyst on days he's not catching.
— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) October 23, 2015
