PitchCom error reveals Twins pitch decisions

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — It was a different throwing sign when Minnesota right-hander Kenta Maeda made his second start in exhibition duels after undergoing Tommy John surgery two seasons ago.

Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said the PitchCom device used by catcher Tony Wolters was loud enough for Tampa Bay hitters to hear every pitch call.

Even home plate umpire Brennan Miller heard it all thanks to the wireless system that pitchers and catchers use to communicate.

Even so, Maeda pitched two scoreless innings and allowed only two hits. He retired two more and scored one in the game at Tropicana Field.

“I said bravo to him,” Baldelli said. “By the way, something to say, they were aware of every upcoming release.”

Maeda laughed after her manager shared what happened.

Baldelli assured Wolters’ ear device was louder than usual at a fairly quiet Tropicana Field with just 2,531 people in attendance. The Rays hold most of their exhibition games at the Tropicana because their regular practice complex was damaged by Hurricane Ian.

After the second run, the referees spoke with Baldelli and confirmed what had happened and adjusted the device.