The Minnesota Twins released their sixth-round draft pick from July after they learned he informed opposing hitters what pitches were coming as his minor league team competed for a playoff berth, the Minnesota Star Tribune confirmed.
Derek Bender, a catcher from Coastal Carolina, lasted less than two months in the Twins organization after he received a $297,500 signing bonus. Playing for Class A Fort Myers, Bender’s team entered the last week of the regular season needing victories in three of its final six games to qualify for the Florida State League playoffs.
After Fort Myers dropped the first three games, ESPN first reported Bender tipped off pitches to Lakeland Tigers hitters in the second game of a doubleheader on Sept. 6. Lakeland scored four runs in the second inning against lefthander Ross Dunn, and Fort Myers was eliminated with a 6-0 loss. Fort Myers won its final two games.
Bender's Tipping of Pitches and the Twins' Response
Fort Myers’ coaches were notified Bender tipped pitchers after the game and ESPN reported Bender told teammates he wanted the season to end. The Twins, who declined further comment, released Bender following an internal investigation. When the club looked into the incident, Bender didn’t admit to tipping pitches when given a chance to own up to it, a source told the Minnesota Star Tribune.
“Sadly this happens with a lot of minor leagues. Not to this extreme but most players want to go home,” tweeted former Twins first baseman Doug Mientkiewicz, who spent a few years managing in the minor leagues. “I would address it with them beforehand. Don’t let the few poison the culture we have built. Kudos to the Twins for doing the right thing.”
Bender's Performance and Reactions to his Release
Bender, who can keep his signing bonus after his release, batted .200 in 19 games with two homers, two doubles and eight RBI. ESPN reported Bender spent the final two games in the bullpen instead of the dugout.
“Derek Bender is one of my favorite teammates I’ve played with,” tweeted Payton Eeles, a Twins minor leaguer for the Class AAA St. Paul Saints who played with Bender in college. “He loved to win, period. We wouldn’t have won as much as we did without him. He made a mistake in life that many 21-year-olds do, and I understand the org’s decision. But nothing can change what I saw firsthand. Love ya Bendy.”
The Consequences of Bender's Actions
Bender’s actions had a significant impact on his team and the organization. His tipping of pitches directly led to the elimination of the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels from the Florida State League playoffs. This incident not only tarnished his reputation but also highlighted the importance of upholding ethical standards within the game. The Twins, determined to maintain their team’s integrity, made the tough decision to release Bender, sending a clear message about their commitment to fair play.
Bender’s release serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring athletes, reminding them that success requires both talent and character. It also underscores the importance of sportsmanship and the potential consequences of actions that compromise the integrity of the game. While Bender's future in baseball remains uncertain, this experience will likely shape his approach to the sport and serve as a reminder of the values that underpin competitive excellence.
