Derek Bender, a Single-A catcher, was released by the Minnesota Twins on Thursday after tipping pitches to opposing hitters, according to a source familiar with the matter.
The official spoke on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, following ESPN’s initial report on the incident.
According to ESPN, Bender, who was playing for the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels, told multiple Lakeland Flying Tigers hitters what kind of pitches they could expect from starter Ross Dunn on September 6.
Lakeland’s victory secured the Florida State League division championship and eliminated Fort Myers from playoff contention.
According to ESPN, Lakeland coaches brought Bender’s tipping to the Fort Myers coaching staff’s attention following the game.
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Bender was a sixth-round pick in July’s draft from Coastal Carolina and hit.200 in 19 minor-league games. Bender’s college teammate Payton Eeles, currently on Minnesota’s Triple-A squad, stated on social media Thursday night that Bender was “one of my favorite teammates” and that the catcher “made a mistake in life that many 21 year olds do,” while expressing love and support.
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