The Cuban pitcher Kendry Rojas has made a significant mark by joining an elite group of Cuban-born pitchers who have secured victories in Major League Baseball before turning 24. This achievement came as he played a pivotal role in the Minnesota Twins 5-4 victory over the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field.
According to sports journalist Francys Romero, Rojas, a 23-year-old from Ciego de Ávila, took the mound as a reliever, delivering 3.1 innings in which he struck out five, allowed five hits, one earned run, and issued three walks. This performance earned him his first win, setting his record at 1-0.
Rojas showcased his talent with a fastball that reached between 94 and 96 mph and a slider nearing 90 mph, underlining the potential that led to his promotion to the Twins' Major League roster on April 19 of this year.
Rojas Joins Historic Roster of Cuban Pitchers
Romero highlighted the historical significance of Rojas's achievement: "Rojas pitched 3.1 innings with five strikeouts to lead the Twins' victory in Cleveland. His fastball ranged from 94-96 mph, and his slider touched 90 mph. The future looks bright."
Rojas now stands alongside legendary Cuban baseball players such as Aroldis Chapman—who notched his first win with the Cincinnati Reds in 2010 at the age of 22—Luis Tiant, Camilo Pascual, Raúl Sánchez, Mike Fornieles, Carlos Pascual, and René Monteagudo. This milestone spans nearly 90 years of Cuban baseball history in the Major Leagues.
Impact on the American League Central Standings
The victory also influenced the standings in the American League Central Division, with the Twins winning two of the three games in the series against Cleveland, narrowing the gap to 2.5 games behind the division-leading Guardians.
This series win marked the first for Minnesota at Progressive Field since September 2023.
During the game, Kody Clemens contributed three hits, including a double that initiated the scoring in the third inning. In the critical fourth inning, Royce Lewis hit an RBI double, and Brooks Lee, Josh Bell, and Austin Martin added hits, bringing the score to 5-1.
Although Cleveland attempted a comeback with RBI singles from Ángel Martínez and Chase DeLauter, closing the gap to 5-4, it wasn't enough to overcome the Twins.
Ranked as the number 10 prospect for the Minnesota Twins, Rojas signed his first professional contract with the Toronto Blue Jays in October 2020 for $215,000 before joining the Minnesota system. There, he honed his skills in the minor leagues, becoming known for his control and ability to limit contact.
At just 23 years old, with two victories in his first two Major League starts, Rojas is emerging as one of the most promising Cuban pitchers of the current generation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kendry Rojas and His MLB Journey
Who is Kendry Rojas?
Kendry Rojas is a 23-year-old Cuban pitcher currently playing for the Minnesota Twins in Major League Baseball. He has been recognized for his impressive performance on the mound, particularly his fastball and slider.
What makes Kendry Rojas's achievements notable?
Rojas's achievements are notable because he has joined a select group of Cuban-born pitchers who have won games in MLB before turning 24. His fastball and slider have been key to his success and his promotion to the major leagues.
How did Kendry Rojas join the Minnesota Twins?
Kendry Rojas joined the Minnesota Twins after initially signing a professional contract with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2020. He was later promoted to the Twins' Major League roster due to his outstanding performance in the minor leagues.