Twins Minor Leaguer Released For Tipping Pitches To Opposing Team
Derek Bender, a Twins minor leaguer and 2024 MLB Draft pick, was released from the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels after it was discovered that he was tipping pitches to an opposing team during a game against the Lakeland Flying Tigers. Bender allegedly told batters the exact pitches that were coming, leading to his removal from the team and the disqualification of the Mighty Mussels from playoff contention.
Coaches from the Flying Tigers exposed Bender’s actions to the Mighty Mussels coaching staff, and his behavior even surprised players on the opposing team. Despite the loss that ended the season for Fort Myers, Bender apparently wanted the season to be over. The incident allowed Lakeland to take the Florida State League West Division.
Bender, a 21-year-old catcher, was selected in the sixth round of the 2024 MLB Draft out of Coastal Carolina and had a brief career with the Mighty Mussels before his release. During his time with the team, he batted .200/.273/.333 with two home runs and eight RBIs in 19 games.
With a promising college career that included 32 home runs and a .979 OPS over three seasons at Coastal Carolina, Bender had high hopes for his professional baseball journey. The incident has brought controversy and disappointment to the young player who was once a semifinalist for the Dick Houser Trophy.
Bender’s actions have raised questions about sportsmanship and integrity in baseball, as fans and analysts reflect on the consequences of tipping pitches in the game.
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Photo credit nypost.com
