Chris Paddack hits the 15-day IL. Will the Twins recall their most promising pitcher?

Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Chris Paddack has been placed on the 15-day injured list with what the team calls “right arm fatigue.” In a related move, the team is recalling right-handed pitcher Ronny Henriquez from Triple-A St. Paul.

Paddack had one of his worst months as a pro, posting a 7.79 ERA in 17.9 innings over four starts in June. This season, he has a 5.29 ERA, which would be the worst of his career as a full-time starting pitcher.

He was scheduled to start Thursday, but will now get some time to rest as he is reportedly dealing with fatigue in his right shoulder. There are no early signs yet of who will replace him in the rotation, but the Twins have myriad options, including a couple of talented pitchers in the minor leagues who could easily be argued deserve a chance.

David Festa or Zebby Matthews have played at an elite level. Festa has started 14 games for Triple-A St. Paul this season, posting a 3.77 ERA and an impressive 1.29 WHIP, along with 87 strikeouts in 59.2 innings. Festa last pitched on June 20.

Matthews making the major leagues this season may be asking a bit much, but he has made a splash with a 1.56 ERA in 10 starts at Double-A this season. This could be an opportunity for Minnesota to put one of their top pitching prospects on the fast track. Matthews last pitched on June 21.

Henriquez is not a starting pitcher, but has a 3.52 ERA in 38.1 minor league innings this season. He will give the Twins another pitcher out of the bullpen until a starter is announced for Thursday’s game.