MINNEAPOLIS — Griffin Jax’s impressive performance for the Minnesota Twins as a relief pitcher last season has not entirely swayed him from pursuing his original ambition of becoming a starting pitcher. Despite the success he found at the back end of the bullpen, Jax had been contemplating his career trajectory and what role would be best suited for him moving forward.
Recognizing the significance of crafting a throwing program that catered either to a starting or relief position before spring training began, Jax reached out to both his agent and the Twins for clarity on his future. This open line of communication was crucial in helping him embrace his late-inning responsibilities for the upcoming 2025 season. “This discussion wasn’t about convincing Griff to take a certain path, but rather understanding how he felt about his role,” explained manager Rocco Baldelli. “We had a positive conversation, and it was clear he had confidence in his ultimate decision.”
Jax faced challenges early in his career, marked by a rough debut season with a 6.10 ERA over 14 starts and only two quality outings. Yet, he held on to the belief that he could evolve into a reliable major league starter. Ambition and determination often drive professional athletes, but Jax was also acutely aware of the financial disparities between starting pitchers and their relieving counterparts. Approaching 30 years old and now earning $2.365 million in his first season of salary arbitration eligibility, the prospect of free agency at age 33 added urgency to his decisions for future contracts.
During a pivotal conversation in December, Jax was encouraged to shift his mindset and consider his overall contributions to the team and his job satisfaction. “When I altered my perspective and lessened the focus on finances, I found myself being drawn back to the bullpen,” Jax noted during the team’s fan event at Target Field last month. He acknowledged that while experiencing setbacks as a starter influenced his choice, he now thrives in high-pressure, late-game situations, questioning, “If it’s not broken, why fix it?”
In today’s baseball environment, where data analysis and strategic pitching dominate, Jax found reassurance in the significant earning potential available to top relievers; his successful track record highlighted this. Last season, he achieved a remarkable 2.03 ERA with 95 strikeouts over 71 innings. “Understanding that if I continue performing well, my financial future will be secure helped me focus on my best self,” Jax emphasized, identifying his niche as a reliever.
Alongside his impressive skills—boasting five effective pitches, including a notable sweeper and a fastball that averaged 97.1 mph as per MLB’s Statcast data—Jax possesses a unique flair for high-stakes situations. Known for his craving for adrenaline, Jax embraces the rush that comes with late-game scenarios.
Notably, he became the first Air Force Academy graduate to reach the major leagues, which contributed to a delayed debut at age 26. In contrast, Paul Skenes, the recent National League Rookie of the Year with the Pittsburgh Pirates, transitioned from Air Force to LSU to expedite his professional journey. Jax, now a captain in the Air Force Reserve, was honored on September 11 before a game against the Los Angeles Angels, with a ceremonial first pitch from his brother, while another sibling flew a fighter jet overhead.
As the tension builds on the field, Jax finds a sense of belonging and excitement when called to pitch in critical moments. “This role resonates with my personality,” he reflected. “I thrive in chaotic environments and embrace the thrill that comes with high-pressure situations, which is an exhilarating part of my job.”
