Twins top prospect Walker Jenkins called up, bats ninth and plays center field in MLB debut

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The Minnesota Twins have called up 21-year-old outfielder Walker Jenkins from their Triple-A affiliate, the St. Paul Saints. This marks the first time Jenkins will suit up for the Major League Baseball club. The young prospect will take the ninth spot in the batting order and play center field. Jenkins, who was drafted fifth overall in the 2023 amateur draft from North Carolina, made his debut against the Chicago White Sox on Friday.

He expressed his excitement about being a big leaguer, acknowledging the significance of the moment. In 69 games with the Saints this season, Jenkins posted a .308 batting average, a .940 OPS, and 17 stolen bases, including 12 home runs, with five of those hits coming in his last six games. The Twins needed to make room for Jenkins on their 26-man roster, so they optioned outfielder Alan Roden back to the Saints.

Meanwhile, injured outfielder Byron Buxton is expected to avoid the disabled list, though his status remains day-to-day due to right hip discomfort. Right-hander Woo-Suk Go was designated for release or assignment as part of the roster adjustment to accommodate Jenkins.