Twins activate Sands, DFA Davis; Varland back to Saints

The Minnesota Twins have swapped out bullpen arms ahead of Thursday’s series finale in New York.

The club reinstated pitcher Cole Sands from his rehab assignment and activated him from the 15-day injured list. He’s missed the past 14 games with a right elbow contusion after he was hit by a line drive in Houston on Aug. 23.

To make room on the roster, the Twins designated left-handed pitcher Austin Davis for release or assignment. Minnesota claimed Davis off waivers from Boston on Aug. 31. He pitched in two games for the Twins, allowing three runs in 1.2 innings.

Additionally, the club returned pitcher Louie Varland to Triple-A St. Paul after he made his MLB debut on Wednesday. In his debut, Varland tossed 5.1 innings, allowing two runs and striking out seven.