Minnesota Twins: Money not going to change Randy Dobnak’s family

Randy Dobnak is one of the great feelgood stories of the past few years. He has gone from driving an Uber in the offseason and pitching in the independent leagues to becoming a part of the Minnesota Twins pitching staff. The Twins regard Dobnak as a key part of their future as well, signing him to a five year extension with three team options.

While that extension may not seem overly lucrative compared to other deals, it is still life changing money. But that will not change the Dobnak’s by the looks of things.

Minnesota Twins pitcher Randy Dobnak still the same person

The fact that Dobnak is even in the majors is a testament to modern technology. The Twins signed him to a $500 bonus in 2017, having scouted him entirely via YouTube. Although he may not have the most impressive stuff, he rocketed through the Twins’ system, debuting in 2019.

Dobnak has been a solid arm for the Twins since his debut, albeit in a small sample size. He has posted a 3.12 ERA and a 1.267 WHiP in his 75 major league innings, striking out 50 batters with 18 walks. While he served as a starter last year, Dobnak has bounced between the rotation and the bullpen during his major league career.

As it currently stands, Dobnak will begin the year in the Twins’ bullpen. He will provide plenty of length in his long relief/spot starter role while serving as a piggyback option. Although this role would seem less important, he is still a central part of Minnesota’s plans.

He should also provide a useful weapon in a more traditional middle relief role. Dobnak has been a ground ball machine in his career, posting a 58.8% ground ball rate in his career. That ability to generate grounders, coupled with his impressive command, makes him well worth the extension.

The Minnesota Twins have locked Randy Dobnak up for the foreseeable future. But that extension is not going to change him and his family at all.