Twins' Paredes scratched minutes before start with oblique strain

Minnesota Twins pitcher Mike Paredes delivers during the first inning... — Minnesota Twins pitcher Mike Paredes delivers during the first inning of a baseball game against the New York Yankees, Friday, July 3, 2026, in New York. Credit: AP/Adam Hunger

By The Associated PressJuly 25, 2026 8:29 pm

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota Twins right-hander Mike Paredes was scratched from his scheduled start Saturday against the Athletics just minutes before the game was scheduled to begin.

Paredes suffered a left oblique strain during warmups, the team said. Left-hander Kendry Rojas replaced Paredes as the starter. It was the rookie's fourth start.

The 25-year-old Paredes debuted with Minnesota earlier this year and is 0-3 in nine career big league games, including five starts. He's allowed at least one run in each of his appearances and has a 4.72 ERA this season, with 19 strikeouts and 13 walks.

If Paredes lands on the injured list, that would free up a roster spot for left-hander Connor Prielipp, who has been on the IL since July 9 with a blister and could return soon.