Minnesota Twins relief pitcher Justin Topa (48) adjusts his cap after committing a throwing error which resulted in a run scored during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets, Monday, April 14, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

Twins’ Justin Topa to make 1st big league start after 102 relief appearances

ATLANTA (AP) — Minnesota Twins right-hander Justin Topa was to make his first big league start on Saturday night against the Atlanta Braves after 102 relief appearances.

Right-hander Simeon Woods Richardson, who had been announced as the probable starter, could pitch behind Topa in what was expected to be a bullpen game.

Topa, 34, entered 0-1 with a 1.35 ERA in seven relief outings and 6 2/3 innings. He has pitched in six seasons for Milwaukee, Seattle and Minnesota.

Minnesota optioned left-hander Kody Funderburk to Triple-A St. Paul and activated right-hander Brock Stewart from the 15-day injured list. Stewart missed the first 20 games of the season because of a strained left hamstring.

Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson delivers against the Detroit Tigers during the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, April 13, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Matt Krohn)
Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Kansas City Royals, Monday, April 7, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

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