The Minnesota Twins have claimed catcher Jhonny Pereda off waivers from the Oakland Athletics, who had designated him for assignment last week. In a corresponding move, the Twins have designated catcher Jair Camargo for assignment. Pereda will be optioned to Triple-A St. Paul.
The move represents an exchange of catching depth for the organization. Pereda, 29, has struggled in limited major league action, hitting .203/.267/.228 across 39 games with the Marlins and Athletics. However, he has excelled in Triple-A, posting a .302/.394/.427 batting line since 2022. His strong plate discipline at that level is highlighted by a 13.3% walk rate and a 19.1% strikeout rate. Scouting reports also credit him with above-average pitch framing.
In contrast, Camargo, 26, has also found little success in a brief major league stint. Since reaching Triple-A in 2023, he has batted .237/.305/.439 with a high 32% strikeout rate. While considered a decent blocker, his pitch framing has been rated as below average.
Both players have minor league options remaining, but the Twins have evidently prioritized Pereda’s offensive upside and framing skills. He will provide depth behind the major league tandem of Ryan Jeffers and Christian Vázquez. With Vázquez becoming a free agent after the season and a potential trade candidate, a strong performance from Pereda could create a path to a more significant role.
Following his designation, the Twins have one week to trade Camargo or place him on waivers. If he goes unclaimed, he can be assigned to the minor leagues, as he does not have the service time required to refuse the assignment and elect free agency.
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