Harrison Bader’s New Deal with the Minnesota Twins
Harrison Bader, the 30-year-old former Gold Glove center fielder, has signed a new one-year contract with the Minnesota Twins, which could see his earnings swell to as much as $7.75 million if he plays regularly this season. The deal, worth $6.25 million, includes a $750,000 signing bonus and a base salary of $4 million. Additionally, it features a $10 million mutual option for the 2026 season, with a $1.5 million buyout. This buyout increases with more plate appearances, adding $200,000 for each milestone of 400, 425, and 450 plate appearances, and a substantial $450,000 for 475 and 500 plate appearances. Bader’s journey to the Twins marks his fifth team in five seasons, a testament to his talent and the dynamic nature of Major League Baseball (MLB).
Bader’s Performance Bonuses and Additional Perks
The contract also includes a series of performance bonuses and additional perks that could further boost Bader’s earnings. He stands to earn $500,000 each time he is traded, and the Twins have committed to providing him with a hotel suite on road trips, a small but appreciated benefit for a professional athlete. Bader’s defensive prowess, which earned him a Gold Glove in 2021, is recognized with a potential $25,000 bonus for another Gold Glove win, and he could receive $50,000 if he is named Comeback Player of the Year. The quest for individual accolades is well-supported, with a $100,000 bonus for winning the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, $75,000 for a second-place finish, $50,000 for third, and $25,000 for any finish from fourth to sixth. Postseason awards, such as World Series MVP ($100,000) and League Championship Series MVP ($75,000), also come with significant financial incentives. Bader would earn $25,000 for making the All-Star team or winning a Silver Slugger award, rounding out a contract that not only rewards his performance on the field but also acknowledges his contributions as a versatile and talented player.
Bader’s Career Journey and Last Season
Harrison Bader’s career has been marked by frequent moves and impressive performances. He began his MLB journey with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2017, where he played until 2022, contributing to the team’s defensive excellence. In 2022, he had a brief stint with the New York Yankees, and the following year, he played for the Cincinnati Reds. Despite these transitions, Bader has maintained a solid presence in the league, compiling a career batting average of .242 with 71 homers, 268 RBIs, and 94 stolen bases in 120 attempts. Last season with the New York Mets, he started 108 games in center field and hit .236 with 12 home runs, 51 RBIs, and 17 stolen bases, although he was limited to just two postseason starts in 12 games. As a New York native, Bader’s return to a team in his home state, even if it’s not the Yankees, carries a special significance and highlights the Twins’ investment in a player with both talent and a connection to the region.
Danny Coulombe’s Contract with the Twins
Reliever Danny Coulombe, a 35-year-old left-hander, has also joined the Twins on a one-year contract worth $3 million, with the potential to earn an additional $200,000 in performance bonuses. Coulombe would receive $50,000 for each milestone of 45, 50, 55, and 60 games pitched. His contract also includes rewards for individual achievements, such as a $100,000 bonus for winning the prestigious Cy Young Award, $75,000 for finishing second, $50,000 for third, and $25,000 for any finish from fourth to sixth. Postseason MVP awards, like the World Series MVP ($100,000) and League Championship Series MVP ($75,000), are also incentivized, as are All-Star selections ($25,000) and Gold Glove wins ($25,000). This contract structure reflects the Twins’ high expectations for Coulombe’s contributions to the bullpen.
Coulombe’s Recent Performance and Health
Coulombe’s recent performance with the Baltimore Orioles is a key factor in the Twins’ decision to sign him. Over the past two seasons, he has been a reliable reliever, posting a 2.12 ERA in 33 relief appearances last year. He struck out 32 batters and walked just five in 29 2/3 innings, showcasing his ability to maintain control and effectiveness. However, his season was interrupted between June 8 and September 20 due to surgery to remove bone chips from his pitching elbow. This setback did not deter the Twins from recognizing his value, and Coulombe’s return to form is a critical aspect of their bullpen strategy. His experience and consistent performance make him a valuable addition to the Twins, who are looking to strengthen their relief corps and improve their overall team dynamics.
Looking Forward to the 2023 Season
With the signings of Harrison Bader and Danny Coulombe, the Minnesota Twins are setting the stage for a competitive 2023 season. Bader’s versatility and defensive skills, coupled with his potential for offensive contributions, make him a significant asset in the outfield. Coulombe’s experience and left-handed pitching capabilities add depth and reliability to the bullpen. Both players have the opportunity to earn additional bonuses and recognition, which not only incentivizes their performance but also aligns with the Twins’ vision of building a balanced and motivated team. As the season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these new additions integrate into the lineup and contribute to the Twins’ success on the field.
