Pirates trade Justin Lawrence to Twins

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Apr 12, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Justin Lawrence (61) after the Chicago Cubs score during the eighth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images | Matt Marton-Imagn Images

The Pittsburgh Pirates traded righty-reliever Justin Lawrence to the Minnesota Twins on Monday night. In return, the Pirates will receive cash considerations from the Twins.

The Pirates found a trade partner with Minnesota just four days after Lawrence was designated for assignment by Pittsburgh. Minnesota is adding a power pitcher to their bullpen that has struggled to find consistency behind the arms that they already have. Lawrence’s three-pitch mix consisting of two fastballs and a sweeper can elevate the Twins’ bullpen if he can regain his 2025 form.

Lawrence has shown flashes of dominance in past years, like in 2025 when he posted a 0.51 ERA, albeit in just 17 games. In 2025 the 31-year-old pitcher was sidelined for most of the season with complications stemming from elbow inflammation.

Justin Lawrence and his super sweeper head to Minnesota! The high FIP and walk rate are concerning but maybe they can get him on the right track. https://t.co/3iyN9Bdqi3pic.twitter.com/mBroZ3PoAs

— Pitch Profiler (@pitchprofiler) June 2, 2026

In 2026, Lawrence has not found his groove since his return to the Pirates’ bullpen. This season he has a 5.32 ERA in 23 games. He also has a 0-2 record, a 1.55 WHIP and has given up four homers.

Minnesota’s bullpen has featured 11 relievers who have recorded a save in 2026 and 18 total pitchers who made appearances in relief. Lawrence is slated to join the Twins’ bullpen, but a roster shuffle will have to take place before this a spot for him on the roster.

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