Former Twins Prospect Derek Bender Released After Allegedly Tipping Pitches

Derek Bender, a former sixth-round pick of the Minnesota Twins, has been released by the organization after allegedly tipping pitches to opposing batters, according to ESPN.

Derek Bender, a former standout catcher for Coastal Carolina University, has been released by the Minnesota Twins after allegedly tipping pitches to opposing batters.

The allegations stem from a game last week against the Lakeland Flying Tigers, in which Bender's team was eliminated from playoff contention. According to ESPN, Bender reportedly told batters the specific pitches that were coming to the plate, allowing the Flying Tigers to score four runs in the second inning and win the game 6-0.

Former Twins Prospect Derek Bender Released After Allegedly Tipping Pitches

Bender's actions reportedly came as a surprise to his teammates, as he had expressed a desire to see the season continue. However, after the incident, Bender was reportedly told to spend the team's final two games of the season in the bullpen.

The Twins and Bender's agency have declined to comment on the matter, according to ESPN.

Former Twins Prospect Derek Bender Released After Allegedly Tipping Pitches

Bender was selected by the Twins in the sixth round of the 2023 MLB Draft. He spent the season playing for the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels in the Florida State League, appearing in 19 games and hitting .200 with two home runs.

During his collegiate career at Coastal Carolina, Bender was a standout performer, hitting 32 home runs and batting .326 in three seasons. He was named to the All-Sun Belt Conference First Team twice and was a member of the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team in 2022.

Former Twins Prospect Derek Bender Released After Allegedly Tipping Pitches

Bender's release from the Twins organization is a significant setback for his professional baseball career. It is unclear at this point if he will be able to find another opportunity with another team.

The incident also raises questions about the integrity of the game of baseball. If pitchers are able to tip pitches to opposing batters, it could give them an unfair advantage and undermine the competitive spirit of the game.

It is important for players and coaches to maintain the highest ethical standards and to play the game with integrity. The allegations against Bender are a reminder that cheating has no place in baseball.