Days after sending cash to Mets for Michael Tonkin, Twins lose him to Mets

The Twins DFA'd Tonkin on Saturday.

Minnesota Twins relief pitcher Michael Tonkin (39) pitches in the sixth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park in Detroit on April 12, 2024. / Rick Osentoski / USA TODAY Sports

It was just over a week ago that the Twins sent cash considerations to the New York Mets to bring reliever Michael Tonkin back to Minneapolis. 

That was on April 9, but four days later after just one appearance in which Tonkin tossed two innings and allowed a pair of runs, the Twins designated him for release or assignment. On Wednesday, Tonkin found his way back to New York when the Mets claimed him off waivers.

Tonkin, 34, played for the Twins from 2013-17 and has played in 190 games across his seven-year major league career. He has a career 4.42 earned-run average across 232 1/3 innings. 

His return was a good story, reuniting Tonkin with the team that drafted him 906th overall back in 2008. But that reunion was short-lived as the Twins quickly cut Tonkin. But either way, Tonkin will remain in the majors and get another chance with the Mets.