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LG Twins Sign Ex-MLB Pitcher Rios
3 Jun
Summary
- Yacksel Rios joins the LG Twins, replacing Yonny Chirinos.
- Rios previously pitched for the Cubs' top affiliate and briefly in MLB.
- He is expected to compete for closing opportunities with the Twins.
The LG Twins of the Korea Baseball Organization are bringing in right-handed pitcher Yacksel Rios, replacing Yonny Chirinos who is being released. Rios, 32, was recently released by the Cubs organization after pitching with their top affiliate and making a brief MLB appearance earlier this year.
Rios has struggled with a 6.21 ERA across previous MLB stints but averaged 98 mph on his four-seamer in his last major league look. He combines this with a sinker, splitter, and slider. He is expected to contend for closing duties with the Twins.
Chirinos, also 32, had a strong first year with the Twins but has struggled this season with a 6.68 ERA over 33 2/3 innings. His release marks a change in the Twins' pitching staff. A strong performance from Rios in the final four months of the KBO season could lead to MLB interest or a lucrative deal in Asia.
