Reds bring in former Twins pitcher remembered for unforgettable Altuve strikeout
The Cincinnati Reds have added a familiar but lightly used major-league arm to their organization, announcing on Wednesday the signing of former Minnesota Twins right-hander Darren McCaughan to a minor league contract. The deal includes an invitation to Spring Training, where McCaughan will look to impress as a non-roster invitee.
Although McCaughan’s time in Minnesota was brief, it featured a moment that etched his name into the record books. The 29-year-old appeared in just three games for the Twins last season, but one outing in particular remains memorable. On April 3 against the Houston Astros, McCaughan struck out star second baseman Jose Altuve, recording the fifth strikeout of the game for the former MVP. That punchout set an unusual record, marking the most times Altuve has ever struck out in a single MLB game.
In that same appearance, McCaughan was sharp and efficient, racking up four strikeouts over two scoreless innings. His debut outing with Minnesota was equally encouraging, as he surrendered only one hit while pitching 2⅔ shutout innings against the Chicago White Sox. However, his final appearance on April 6 against Houston proved more challenging, with McCaughan allowing one earned run on two hits and a walk while recording just two outs.
Following that game, the Twins designated him for assignment. McCaughan cleared waivers, elected free agency, and later rejoined Minnesota on a minor league deal. He spent most of the season with Triple-A St. Paul, where he made 26 appearances, including 12 starts. Across 97 innings, he posted a 5.10 ERA, striking out 96 batters while issuing 33 walks.
McCaughan originally made his major league debut in 2021 with the Seattle Mariners and has since logged innings for the Miami Marlins, Cleveland Guardians, and Twins. Over his MLB career, he owns a 5.93 ERA across 60⅔ innings. At the Triple-A level, his résumé is extensive, with 127 appearances and a 5.14 ERA over more than 640 innings of work.
One recurring challenge throughout McCaughan’s professional career has been his susceptibility to the long ball. He has given up 13 home runs in the majors and 136 more in the minors, a factor that has limited his ability to secure a permanent big-league role.
On the mound, McCaughan features a four-pitch mix that includes a low-80s sweeper, a four-seam fastball and sinker that range from the low-80s to upper-90s, and a low-80s changeup.
While it appears unlikely that McCaughan will break camp with the Reds and claim a spot on the Opening Day 26-man roster, he provides organizational depth. He is expected to spend much of the season at Triple-A, ready to step in if injuries arise or the Reds’ bullpen needs reinforcements.
