Rick Aguilera arrived in the Twin Cities in July 1989 as a primary piece of the blockbuster trade that sent Frank Viola to the New York Mets. Initially, Aguilera operated as a professional mainstay in the rotation, fulfilling his wish to remain a starter for the final 11 games of that season. However, the organization recognized a high-leverage potential in his electric stuff, transitioning him to the bullpen in 1990—a move that would fundamentally alter the franchise's trajectory and secure his place as a Minnesota legend.
After becoming the full-time closer in 1990, he demonstrated exceptional efficiency by recording 32 saves, showcasing a strategic coaching decision. His performance peaked even further in 1991, when he tied the franchise record with 42 saves and secured his first of three straight All-Star selections.
Aguilera’s legendary status peaked during the 1991 World Series. As a dominant pitcher, he recorded three saves in the ALCS and closed Game 1 of the Fall Classic. He also made history in Game 3 when, in the top of the 12th inning, he was brought in as a pinch-hitter with the bases loaded—marking the first pitcher to do so in a World Series since Don Drysdale in 1965.
In 1995, Aguila was traded to the Red Sox during the season; he returned as a free agent in 1996 and initially re-entered the rotation as a veteran starter. After one season back in the rotation, where he recorded eight wins, he returned to his hallmark closer role for his final years in the Twin Cities, continuing to pile up saves until a mid-season trade to the Chicago Cubs in 1999.
As a Twin, Aguilera posted a 40-47 record and 254 saves. He was inducted into the Twins Hall of Fame in 2008.
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