5 Baseball Players who Played for Twins and Pirates
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players that have played for both the Minnesota Twins and Pittsburgh Pirates.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Twins and the Pirates.
Francisco Liriano
Francisco Liriano began his MLB journey with the Minnesota Twins in 2005, quickly making an impression as one of the league’s promising young pitchers. In 2006, his breakout season, he was named an All-Star, and while his year was cut short due to Tommy John surgery, his performance left a lasting impression.
Over the years, Liriano played for various teams, including the White Sox, Pirates, Blue Jays, Astros, and Tigers. One of his career highlights came with the Pirates, where he won the 2013 National League Comeback Player of the Year after an impressive season on the mound.
Throughout his career, Liriano was known for his devastating slider and ability to generate strikeouts. His journey in the MLB was characterized by moments of sheer dominance, resilience in the face of injuries, and adaptability as he transitioned roles, even serving as a relief pitcher later in his career.
Loriano Key Stats
- All-Star (Twins)
- World Series Champ (Astros)
- 200+ Strikeout Season (Twins, Pirates)
Justin Morneau
Justin Morneau, who played from 2003 to 2016, is most remembered for his time as a first baseman with the Minnesota Twins. Morneau had a solid career, accumulating over 1,600 hits, 247 home runs, and a .281 career batting average.
He was a four-time All-Star (Twins) and won the American League MVP (Twins) award in 2006 when he hit .321 with 34 home runs and 130 RBIs. His time with the Twins also saw him win two Silver Slugger awards.
Known for his powerful left-handed swing and steady defense, Morneau was a key player in the Twins’ success during his tenure.
Bert Blyleven
Bert Blyleven, who pitched from 1970 to 1992, is best known for his time with the Minnesota Twins and Cleveland Indians (now Guardians). Blyleven had a terrific career, amassing 287 wins, a 3.31 ERA, and striking out 3,701 batters.
He was a two-time All-Star (Twins, Guardians) and won two World Series titles, one with the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1979 and another with the Twins in 1987. His best season arguably came in 1973, when he posted a 20-17 record with a 2.52 ERA and led the league with 9 shutouts.
Known for his devastating curveball, Blyleven’s impressive career was recognized with his induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2011.
Denny Neagle
Denny Neagle was a notable left-handed pitcher who pitched in the Major Leagues from 1991 to 2003. He had stints with the Minnesota Twins, Pittsburgh Pirates, Atlanta Braves, Cincinnati Reds, New York Yankees, and Colorado Rockies.
Neagle’s career stats included a 124-92 win-loss record, a 4.24 ERA, and 1415 strikeouts in 1979.2 innings pitched. He shined in the 1997 season with the Braves, posting a 20-5 record and a 2.97 ERA, which earned him an All-Star nod and a third-place finish in the Cy Young voting.
Neagle Key Stats
- All-Star (Pirates, Braves)
- 20+ Win Season (Braves)
Rich Hill
Rich Hill is an Immaculate Grid beast. The left-handed pitcher has played for 13 different clubs over his incredible 19-year career – one that is still ongoing as I’m writing this (he’s currently pitching with the Padres).
Hill’s MLB journey began when he was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in 2002. After making his major league debut in 2005, he had initial success with the Cubs, particularly in 2007 when he had a standout season. However, injuries, inconsistency, and command issues led to him bouncing around the minors and various MLB teams for several years.
After refining his pitching approach and mechanics, he experienced a career resurgence starting in 2015. At an age when many players see diminished returns, Hill became one of the most effective starters in baseball. This late-career renaissance led to stints with the Red Sox, Athletics, Dodgers, Twins, and Rays.
