The Giants added right-handed reliever Jharel Cotton, a former Oakland Athletics starter, on Sunday.
Cotton, who was drafted in 2012 by the Dodgers, rose through Los Angeles’ farm system when Farhan Zaidi was working in LA’s front office and Gabe Kapler worked as the farm director.
In parts of four MLB seasons, Cotton has a career 4.42 ERA both as a starter and reliever.
Originally from the Virgin Islands, Cotton moved to America when he was 12 years old. In 2018, he returned to his native country to provide disaster aid when the islands got hit by hurricanes Maria and Irma.
Cotton pitched for the A’s for two years, debuting in 2016 and making 29 starts. In five starts as a rookie, he posted a 2.15 ERA but struggled more as a sophomore.
Cotton missed the 2018 season with a right elbow injury and returned to action as a reliever. He eventually landed with the Twins.
For Minnesota, Cotton made 25 appearances this year, recording a 2.83. He struck out 31 batters but walked 16 in 35 innings — a concerning peripheral stat.
Cotton was similarly effective this season at the Triple-A level, though, and walks were less of an issue for him there.
At 5-foot-11, Cotton is slight and doesn’t throw overpowering stuff. His fastball averages 93 mph, but he also heavily features a changeup and slider.
The Giants designated outfielder Willie Calhoun for assignment to clear room for Cotton. Calhoun appeared in four games for SF. Infielder Jose Rojas also cleared waivers and was outrighted to Sacramento, but elected free agency instead.