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    Notes about the team are posted here.

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      Cody Christie

      Minnesota's bullpen took a hit late in the 2026 season when Jeff Hoffman landed on the injured list, and the veteran reliever is now addressing the issue with an offseason procedure. Aaron Gleeman reported on the latest episode of Gleeman and the Geek that Hoffman is undergoing a minor elbow cleanup procedure, likely related to bone spurs or bone chips.

      Although any procedure involving a pitcher's throwing arm is worth monitoring, the early indications suggest the injury is not a significant concern for the Twins as they prepare for the 2027 season.

      Hoffman Shut Down Late in the Season

      At the end of September, Minnesota placed Hoffman on the 15-day injured list with right forearm inflammation. The move came after the reliever acknowledged that he was not recovering between outings as well as he would have liked.

      Hoffman struggled in his final appearance during the Twins' last road trip, pitching in San Francisco. Rather than continue pushing through the discomfort, he and the organization decided it was best to shut him down for the remainder of the season.

      At the time, Hoffman expressed little concern about the injury. He believed rest would help resolve the problem and expected to follow a normal offseason schedule. He also indicated that there were no issues involving the elbow joint or ligaments, providing some reassurance about the nature of the injury.

      The reported cleanup procedure appears consistent with Hoffman's earlier comments. Bone spurs or loose bone fragments can create discomfort and interfere with a pitcher's recovery, making a minor procedure a reasonable step toward getting him ready for another season. The exact details of the procedure have not been fully outlined, however, so the Twins will have to evaluate his recovery before determining whether any adjustments to his offseason throwing program are necessary.

      A Valuable Bullpen Addition

      Minnesota acquired Hoffman from the Toronto Blue Jays ahead of the August 3 trade deadline, hoping the 2024 All-Star could provide another reliable option in high-leverage situations. The right-hander delivered on that expectation during his limited time with the club.

      Hoffman posted a 2.50 ERA and struck out 27 batters across 18 innings with Minnesota. Those numbers represented an encouraging return from a pitcher brought in to help stabilize the late innings during the second half of the season.

      His performance also gives the Twins a reason to feel optimistic about their bullpen heading into 2027. Relief pitching can be unpredictable, and Minnesota will need multiple dependable options if it hopes to improve its postseason chances. Hoffman demonstrated that he could handle important situations and miss bats against major league hitters.

      The late-season injury interrupted that progress, but the initial reports do not suggest that the Twins should expect a lengthy absence extending into next season.

      What It Means for 2027

      Hoffman is under contract with Minnesota for 2027 and projects to be one of the team's top relievers. With the organization looking to build a more competitive roster, retaining dependable bullpen arms will be an important part of the offseason plan. The Twins still have plenty of questions to answer about their overall relief corps. Hoffman's presence gives them a potential foundation, provided he returns to full strength and performs near the level he showed after the trade.

      For now, the reported elbow cleanup appears to be more of an offseason maintenance issue than a major setback. Minnesota will undoubtedly monitor Hoffman's recovery, but his expectation of a normal offseason offers some encouragement. The Twins acquired Hoffman to strengthen their bullpen for the stretch run and beyond. If the procedure allows him to enter spring training without lingering discomfort, he should remain an important piece of the team's plans for 2027.

       

      Cody Christie

      Mitch Garver has decided to call it a career after parts of 10 seasons in Major League Baseball. The former Minnesota Twins catcher spent time with the Twins, Texas Rangers, and Seattle Mariners, finishing his career with 110 home runs and a reputation as an offensive threat when healthy. His retirement closes the book on a career that included an award-winning season in Minnesota and a World Series championship in Texas.

      The Twins selected Garver in the ninth round of the 2013 MLB Draft out of the University of New Mexico. He consistently hit well in the minor leagues, but questions surrounded his ability to handle the defensive responsibilities of catching at the major league level. By the end of 2016, Minnesota had seen enough potential to add him to its 40-man roster and protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.

      Garver debuted with the Twins in 2017 but struggled to produce at the plate. He hit .196/.288/.348 without a home run in 52 plate appearances. The following season offered a glimpse of what was to come, as he launched seven home runs and posted a .268/.335/.414 slash line.

      Garver's breakout season arrived in 2019. As part of Minnesota's famous Bomba Squad, he hit 31 home runs in just 93 games and 359 plate appearances. His .273/.365/.630 line was good for a 155 wRC+, meaning he produced offensively at a rate 55% better than league average. He also earned a Silver Slugger Award, recognizing him as one of the American League's top offensive catchers.

      The 2019 season is remembered for its historic home run totals and the baseball used throughout the league. Still, Garver's production was impressive regardless of the environment. Catchers rarely deliver the same offensive output as players at other positions, making his power particularly valuable to Minnesota's lineup.

      Unfortunately, staying on the field became a recurring challenge. An intercostal strain limited Garver to 23 games during the shortened 2020 season, and he struggled offensively when available. Injuries again restricted his playing time in 2021, but he remained productive, hitting 13 home runs with a .256/.358/.517 slash line and a 139 wRC+ in 243 plate appearances.

      The emergence of Ryan Jeffers gave Minnesota another catching option and made Garver expendable before the 2022 season. The Twins traded him to Texas in exchange for Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Ronny Henriquez. The following day, Minnesota sent Kiner-Falefa, Josh Donaldson, and Ben Rortvedt to the New York Yankees for Gary Sánchez and Gio Urshela.

      Garver's time in Texas provided another career highlight. He became part of the Rangers' 2023 World Series championship team, hitting .270/.370/.500 in 87 games during the regular season. He then signed a two-year, $24 million contract with Seattle before the 2024 season, but his offensive production declined. The Mariners released him in August 2026, and he later signed a minor league contract with the Yankees without appearing in another major league game.

      Garver finishes his career with a .229/.325/.432 slash line and 110 home runs. He collected 497 hits, scored 301 runs, and drove in 324. FanGraphs credited him with eight wins above replacement, while Baseball-Reference lists approximately 10.0 WAR. His career earnings totaled just under $35 million.

      Garver's career never followed a straight path. Injuries interrupted promising seasons, and his defensive limitations sometimes complicated his role. However, his offensive peak with the Twins remains memorable, particularly during the historic 2019 campaign. He leaves the game with a Silver Slugger Award, a World Series ring, and a place in the story of one of Minnesota's most entertaining teams.

      Cody Christie

      Pablo López did not take the mound for the Minnesota Twins in 2026, but his impact on the organization and its community continues to earn recognition. The right-hander has received another significant honor, this time as a finalist for one of the Major League Baseball Players Association’s most meaningful awards.

      The nomination adds to a growing list of honors for López during a season in which he was unable to contribute on the field. Last month, the Twins selected him as their nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, recognizing his commitment to community service and charitable work. It marked the third consecutive season Minnesota nominated López for the award and the fourth time overall the organization recognized him for his community contributions.

      On Wednesday, the MLBPA announced the finalists for its annual Players Choice Awards. López was named one of three finalists for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award, joining Chris Bassitt and Nico Hoerner. The award recognizes the influence players can have through leadership, service, and their ability to inspire others.

      Recognizing Leadership

      The Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award is presented to the player “whose leadership most inspires others to higher levels of achievement.” Named after the MLBPA’s first full-time executive director, the award honors a legacy of leadership and advocacy for major league players.

      Miller served as executive director from 1966 to 1982 and played a central role in transforming the relationship between players and team ownership. His influence extended well beyond the baseball field, making the award particularly fitting for players who use their positions to make a difference in their communities and within the game. Miller was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2021.

      Unlike awards determined by media members or front-office personnel, the Players Choice Awards are voted on by the players themselves. First presented in 1992, the awards recognize excellence both on and off the field, including individual performance, leadership, perseverance, and community impact.

      That peer-driven selection process makes López’s nomination especially noteworthy. Being recognized by fellow major leaguers reflects the respect he has earned from people who understand the demands of the sport and the responsibilities that come with playing at its highest level.

      A Meaningful Season Away From the Field

      For Minnesota, López’s 2026 season has been defined by his absence from the rotation. However, an injury preventing him from pitching has not erased his standing within the organization or diminished the attention surrounding his off-field contributions.

      The Twins have repeatedly highlighted López’s community involvement through their Roberto Clemente Award nominations. His latest recognition from the MLBPA reinforces that his value to the organization extends beyond his work as a starting pitcher.

      López has established himself as an important voice in Minnesota’s clubhouse, and leadership can take on added significance during a season when a player cannot contribute between the lines. His nomination places him alongside Bassitt and Hoerner, two players also recognized for their leadership. The winners of this year’s Players Choice Awards are scheduled to be announced during the week of October 26. 

      The Twins will eventually need López back on the mound to help lead their pitching staff. In the meantime, his continued recognition is a reminder that a player's influence is not measured solely by innings pitched, strikeouts, or wins. Even in a season without an on-field role, López remains a prominent representative of the organization.

      Cody Christie

      Brooks Lee has earned a spot among the American League’s best defensive players. The Minnesota Twins infielder was named one of three finalists for the 2026 Rawlings Gold Glove Award at third base on Wednesday. Lee is joined by Boston Red Sox infielder Caleb Durbin and Kansas City Royals infielder Nick Loftin. The winners will be announced on ESPN on Sunday, November 1.

      Lee's nomination is particularly impressive considering how his defensive season began. After spending most of his first two big-league seasons at shortstop, he struggled at the position again in 2026. A move across the infield helped change his season, turning a potential defensive liability into a player receiving recognition for his work with the glove.

      A Position Change Makes a Difference

      Lee entered professional baseball as a shortstop and continued to receive opportunities at the position after reaching the majors. However, the early returns were not encouraging. He finished both 2024 and 2025 with a minus-3 Fielding Run Value (FRV), a Statcast metric that measures a defender's contribution compared with an average player.

      The struggles continued into 2026. Lee posted -6 Outs Above Average (OAA) in limited action at shortstop, making it difficult for the Twins to justify keeping him there as his primary position. The club needed to find a better defensive fit for the young infielder.

      Third base provided that opportunity. Lee excelled after moving to the hot corner, recording +6 OAA during the 2026 season. The improvement was substantial, especially when compared with his previous results at shortstop. 

      The position change also gave the Twins a clearer picture of Lee's potential moving forward. His defensive performance at third base suggests he could become a long-term option at the position, provided he continues to build on the progress he made this season.

      A Difficult Competition

      Lee's Gold Glove candidacy comes with some formidable competition. Durbin appears to be the favorite after an impressive defensive campaign with Boston. At the most recent SABR Defensive Index update, Durbin posted an 8.8 SDI, nearly three times Loftin's mark in second place. Durbin also recorded plus-6 FRV and plus-6 OAA at third base. Those numbers give him a compelling case to take home the award.

      Loftin is another worthy finalist, making this a competitive group. Lee's nomination, however, represents an important milestone in his development. After entering the season with questions about his defense, he established himself as a credible candidate for one of baseball's most recognized individual defensive awards.

      Twins manager Derek Shelton has expressed confidence that Lee can become a Gold Glove winner at third base. This season's finalist selection offers evidence that such an outcome is realistic.

      The next step could be giving Lee a full season at third base in 2027. A consistent role would allow him to continue developing his instincts, improve his familiarity with the position, and demonstrate that his defensive success can be sustained over an entire campaign.

      Lee might not win his first Gold Glove this year, particularly with Durbin's strong credentials. Still, becoming a finalist is a significant achievement for a player whose season began with defensive concerns.

      Cody Christie

      The 2026 season did not end where the Minnesota Twins wanted it to, but the organization still has five players receiving recognition from Major League Baseball as All-MLB Team nominees. Kody Clemens, Brooks Lee, Ryan Jeffers, Byron Buxton, and Taj Bradley are all on the ballot. Fans can vote once per day at MLB.com through Friday, October 9, giving Twins fans an opportunity to make their voices heard and reward several players who made significant contributions during the season.

      Clemens was one of the year's biggest surprises. He appeared in 145 games and provided a power boost that few could have predicted, launching 27 home runs and driving in 81 runs. His ability to move around the diamond also made him a valuable piece of the roster. Lee supplied plenty of power of his own. The young infielder hit 24 home runs with 83 RBI while batting .253 over 156 games. He spent 110 games at third base, continuing to establish himself as an important part of Minnesota's future.

      Bradley arguably has the strongest case among the five nominees. Acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays at the 2025 trade deadline, he took another step forward in his first full season with Minnesota. Bradley went 12-6 with a 3.73 ERA and 205 strikeouts across 178 1/3 innings in 31 starts. He also established personal bests in several categories while becoming a dependable piece of the Twins' rotation.

      Jeffers and Buxton were two of Minnesota's most valuable players when healthy. Jeffers hit .256 with a .353 on-base percentage, 14 home runs and 56 RBI in just 92 games. His season was interrupted by a broken left hamate bone that kept him on the injured list from May 19 until July 10, making his production even more impressive.

      Buxton hit 25 home runs and posted an .830 OPS in 93 games. Unfortunately, his season ended prematurely because of a right hip impingement, and he has not played since late August.

      How the Voting Works

      The All-MLB Team includes a first team and second team, with each featuring a catcher, every infield position, three outfielders, a designated hitter, five starting pitchers and two relief pitchers. Selections are made without regard to league.

      Fans and a panel consisting of media members, broadcasters, former players and other officials each have an equal say in the final results. The winners will be announced November 11 at the MLB Awards in Las Vegas.

      Cody Christie

      Liam Hendriks announced his retirement this week after a 14-year Major League career that included three All-Star selections, back-to-back AL Reliever of the Year awards, and a remarkable comeback from cancer. For the Minnesota Twins, however, Hendriks’ retirement also offers a reminder of what might have been.

      The Twins signed Hendriks as an international free agent in 2007, and the Australian right-hander eventually reached the majors with Minnesota in 2011. Unfortunately, the version of Hendriks the Twins saw was not the one who would eventually become one of baseball’s best relievers.

      From 2011 through 2014, Hendriks bounced between the Twins, Royals, and Blue Jays while making 39 appearances, including 34 starts. Across 188 2/3 innings, he posted a 5.92 ERA. Minnesota eventually moved on, and Hendriks continued searching for a role that would unlock his considerable talent.

      That answer came in Toronto. In 2015, the Blue Jays moved Hendriks into the bullpen full-time. The results were immediate. He posted a 2.92 ERA with a 27.2% strikeout rate and a 4.2% walk rate across 64 2/3 innings. Suddenly, the pitcher who had struggled to establish himself as a starter looked like a legitimate weapon coming out of the bullpen.

      The Blue Jays traded him to Oakland that offseason, and Hendriks eventually developed into one of the premier closers in the sport. From 2019-20, he posted a 1.79 ERA with a 38% strikeout rate and a 5.7% walk rate over 110 1/3 innings.

      That success earned Hendriks a three-year, $54 million contract with the White Sox before the 2021 season. He rewarded Chicago by becoming an elite closer and earning consecutive All-Star selections. He would make three All-Star teams overall and win AL Reliever of the Year honors in both 2020 and 2021.

      Of course, Hendriks' career became about much more than baseball. He battled non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2023, returned to the mound later that season, and won AL Comeback Player of the Year. Tommy John surgery and additional elbow problems eventually limited his ability to continue his career.

      Hendriks finishes with a 3.88 career ERA, a 26.7% strikeout rate and 6.0% walk rate over 663 2/3 innings. As a reliever, he posted a 3.16 ERA.

      For the Twins, there is an obvious what-if attached to Hendriks' career. Minnesota had the pitcher first. What it never found was the role that allowed him to thrive.

      Hendriks needed a move to the bullpen to become the pitcher he was always capable of being. The Twins never gave him that opportunity before moving on, leaving them to watch from afar as their former international signing developed into an All-Star closer.

      His career ultimately became a remarkable story of perseverance, reinvention and resilience. For Minnesota, it also remains a reminder that sometimes the biggest challenge isn't finding talent. It's figuring out where that talent belongs.

       

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have dealt with their share of injuries throughout the 2026 season, but the organization expects most of those players to be back at full strength when spring training begins.

      General manager Jeremy Zoll provided an encouraging update Tuesday, saying nearly every injured player on the roster should be ready for the start of camp. That group includes veterans Byron Buxton and Pablo López, along with top prospect Walker Jenkins.

      Jenkins is scheduled to undergo arthroscopic surgery Wednesday to address an ongoing issue with his right elbow. Zoll explained that the problem has been something Jenkins has dealt with for several years, making the offseason an ideal opportunity to finally address it.

      "He's been dealing with a cranky right elbow on and off for three or four years at this point," Zoll said. "He's gonna get a procedure tomorrow to clean up bone chips and bone spur and he'll be full go for 2027. Gonna take advantage of the offseason to get that all squared away for Walker."

      That timeline should allow Jenkins to enter the 2027 season without the lingering elbow issue that has followed him throughout his development.

      Jenkins, the organization's top prospect, made his major-league debut in late August after tearing through the minor leagues. He quickly found himself in an important role, taking over in center field while Buxton dealt with his own injury.

      The transition to the majors was not an easy one. Jenkins hit just .089 with one home run through his first 16 games, with that homer coming against a position player. Those early struggles were understandable for a young player adjusting to the highest level, but Jenkins showed why the Twins have been so excited about his long-term potential by turning things around before the season ended.

      Over his final 10 games, Jenkins hit .400 while adding three home runs, five RBIs and nine runs scored. That strong finish gives the Twins something positive to build on heading into the offseason. Jenkins now has a taste of the major leagues and a chance to spend the winter preparing for his first full big-league season.

      The elbow procedure adds another item to his offseason checklist, but Zoll's comments suggest the Twins are approaching it as a chance to eliminate a lingering problem rather than something expected to derail Jenkins' preparation.

      If everything goes according to plan, Jenkins should arrive at spring training healthy and ready to compete for a prominent role in Minnesota's 2027 lineup.

      Cody Christie

      Ryan Jeffers has spent his entire professional career in the Twins organization, dating back to Minnesota selecting him in the second round of the 2018 MLB Draft. After nearly a decade with the organization, though, the veteran catcher could be approaching the end of his time in Minnesota.

      Jeffers is not closing the door on a return. In fact, he made it clear that he would welcome the opportunity to stay with the only organization he has known. At the same time, he wants to experience free agency and find out what opportunities exist beyond Minnesota.

      “I’ve worked too hard to corner myself into one team or two teams,” Jeffers said Sunday, via The Athletic’s Dan Hayes. “I love the idea of a reunion. I also love the idea of going out there and seeing what else is out there.”

      There should be plenty of interest. Jeffers enters the offseason as arguably the top catcher on the free-agent market and one of the better offensive players available at the position. Since his breakout 2023 season, he has posted a 119 wRC+ across 1,632 plate appearances. That ranks eighth among catchers during that stretch.

      His 2026 season was particularly encouraging considering the circumstances. A hamate fracture suffered in May cost Jeffers roughly two months and limited him to 92 games. Despite the lost time, he hit .256/.353/.461 with 14 home runs in 368 plate appearances.

      More importantly, several underlying numbers moved in the right direction. Jeffers posted career-best strikeout and walk rates, striking out in just 17.9% of his plate appearances while walking 12.5% of the time. His 128 wRC+ means he was 28% better than the league-average hitter, while the average MLB catcher finished at just 91.

      The defensive questions remain. Jeffers has generally been a below-average defensive catcher, and 2026 followed that trend. He caught only 10.6% of potential base stealers and ranked in the 37th percentile as a pitch framer. He performed well with ABS challenges, finishing 12th among 107 catchers in Overturns Vs. Expected.

      Now the Twins must decide whether Jeffers is worth a $23.1 million qualifying offer. The decision will come shortly after the World Series, and Hayes reports Jeffers is unlikely to accept it.

      That could leave Minnesota with Victor Caratini as its most experienced catcher heading into 2027. Vahn Lackey, the third overall pick in the 2026 draft, represents the organization's long-term answer, but he is probably still a couple of years away. If Jeffers leaves, the Twins could look for a short-term veteran through free agency or trade. Several experienced catchers, including Tyler Stephenson, Austin Hedges, Jonah Heim, James McCann and former Twin Christian Vázquez, could be available.

      For now, Jeffers is keeping both possibilities open. After spending his entire career in Minnesota, he has earned the opportunity to see what the rest of baseball thinks he is worth.

       

      Steve Drumwright

       

      The Minnesota Twins are shaking up their pitching staff from a leadership perspective.

      Pitching coach Pete Maki and assistant pitching coach Luis Ramirez will not return to the Twins for 2027. It is not known whether one or either was under contract for next season. One more change is athletic trainer Jason Kirkman will not return after seven seasons with the franchise.

      No other changes are expected to the Twins' coaching staff.

      Maki took over as the Twins' pitching coach in July 2022 following the sudden departure of Wes Johnson, who became the pitching coach in college at LSU. Maki had been in the Twins' organization since 2018 in a variety of roles and was on the major-league staff when the 2022 change happened.

      Ramirez has been in the org since 2006, spending the last five years of his 21-year tenure as the major-league assistant pitching coach.

      The Twins finished 25th this season in ERA at 4.56 in what was expected to be a rebuilding season, particularly in the bullpen, but with a handful of quality returning starters led by Joe Ryan and Pablo Lopez. They finished 24th in ERA in 2025 (4.55) and 21st in 2024 (4.26) after ranking sixth in 2023 (3.87).

       

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have spent much of the 2026 season waiting for Mick Abel to get healthy. On Saturday, they received another encouraging sign in that process. According to The Athletic's Dan Hayes, Abel was seen throwing off the mound at Target Field on Friday. It is a small step in the overall rehabilitation process, but after months of setbacks, any progress is worth noting.

      Abel underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow on July 1, performed by renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Keith Meister. The most important piece of news from that procedure was what doctors did not find: Abel's ulnar collateral ligament remained intact.

      This was not a Tommy John surgery situation, and an internal brace procedure was not necessary. Instead, the surgery was intended to address the recurring discomfort that repeatedly interrupted Abel's rehabilitation. That discomfort had already turned what looked like a promising season into a frustrating one.

      From Breakout to Setback

      When the Twins acquired Abel from the Philadelphia Phillies as part of last summer's Jhoan Duran trade, they were betting on upside. The former first-round pick had struggled to find consistency early in his professional career, but the talent that made him a highly regarded prospect was still there. 

      That talent began showing itself during Spring Training. Abel's fastball had more life, his secondary pitches generated more swing-and-miss, and he looked like someone capable of finally establishing himself as a long-term member of Minnesota's rotation.

      The early regular season results only added to that optimism. Through his first 20 1/3 innings, Abel struck out 23 batters with a 2.73 FIP and a 1.57 WHIP. His command remained inconsistent (10.8 BB%), but opposing hitters were having trouble squaring him up and were increasingly chasing pitches outside the strike zone.

      Then the elbow became an issue. Abel landed on the injured list in April, and what initially appeared to be a relatively manageable setback turned into a much longer process. Twice, he appeared to be approaching a return. Twice, renewed discomfort stopped him. Additional imaging provided some positive news. His MRI showed no damage to the UCL or flexor tendon. However, the recurring discomfort ultimately led to the consultation with Meister and the decision to proceed with arthroscopic surgery.

      Now, Abel is taking another step toward getting back on the mound. There is still plenty of work ahead. But considering where Abel's rehabilitation stood just a few months ago, seeing him on a mound represents meaningful progress. The Twins need Abel as part of the starting pitching mix for spring training. For a season that has repeatedly stalled, that's a welcome sight.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins will have one of their most important bullpen pieces unavailable for the final two games of the season, but they are getting a key piece of their future back on Saturday. The Twins activated shortstop Kaelen Culpepper from the injured list Saturday while placing veteran reliever Jeff Hoffman on the 15-day injured list with right forearm inflammation.

      Minnesota acquired Hoffman from the Toronto Blue Jays ahead of the August 3rd Trade Deadline, hoping the 2024 All-Star could provide another reliable option in the late innings. He has done exactly that since arriving, posting a 2.50 ERA with 27 strikeouts across 18 innings for the Twins.

      Hoffman last pitched Tuesday against the San Francisco Giants, earning his first save with Minnesota in a 3-2 victory. The right-hander allowed one run while walking two and hitting a batter in his lone inning of work. It was an unusual blemish for a pitcher who had not allowed a run in his previous 11 appearances, covering 9 1/3 innings.

      Now, Hoffman will have to watch the final two games from the sidelines. His absence leaves the Twins without one of their most dependable bullpen arms, but the timing also gives the organization a chance to get Culpepper back on the field.

      The 23-year-old shortstop landed on the 10-day IL after suffering a mild left hamstring strain against the New York Yankees. Culpepper tweaked the hamstring in the sixth inning while running out a ground ball, with an MRI the following morning confirming the strain. Minnesota recalled infielder Ben Ross from Triple-A St. Paul when Culpepper went on the IL.

      Culpepper has given the Twins plenty of reasons to want an extended look at him. He has hit .275/.333/.404 across 31 games, with three home runs, five doubles and 11 RBIs. While the offensive numbers are still developing, his defensive work at shortstop has been particularly encouraging. Culpepper has looked comfortable at a premium position and has graded out as an above-average defender up the middle. That matters as the Twins continue looking toward a younger core for 2027 and beyond.

      There isn't much left to accomplish in the standings for Minnesota, but these final games still provide an opportunity to evaluate pieces of the roster. Hoffman won't be part of that evaluation because of his forearm issue, but Culpepper will. And after spending nearly two weeks on the injured list, getting Culpepper back on the field for the final weekend gives the Twins one more opportunity to see what they have in a player who could be an important part of their next roster.

       

      Cody Christie

      Alex Jackson has become one of the strangest roster stories of the Minnesota Twins' 2026 season. For the third time this year, Jackson has cleared waivers after being designated for assignment. Once again, all 29 other MLB clubs passed on the veteran catcher, allowing Minnesota to retain him without giving up a roster spot.

      The latest move came as the Twins needed room for former first round pick Aaron Sabato. Jackson was designated for assignment, bringing another chapter to an increasingly bizarre stretch of roster decisions involving a player who has spent much of the season barely playing.

      The story began last November when Minnesota acquired Jackson from the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for Triple-A infielder Payton Eeles. The Twins also committed $1.35 million to Jackson through arbitration, a move that made sense at the time. Ryan Jeffers was expected to be the starting catcher, and Jackson appeared positioned to serve as his backup.

      Then the Twins signed Victor Caratini to a two-year, $14 million contract. Suddenly, Jackson was an expensive third catcher and organizational depth. The Twins designated him for assignment after spring training, but no team wanted to take on his contract. He cleared waivers and remained with the organization at Triple-A.

      That decision eventually proved useful. Jeffers fractured his left hamate bone in May and missed nearly two months. Caratini moved into the starting role, while Jackson returned to Minnesota to handle the backup duties. He provided needed depth until Jeffers returned in July.

      The Twins could have moved on from Jackson at that point. Instead, they kept him around through the trade deadline in case Jeffers was dealt. Jeffers stayed. Jackson remained. And he barely played.

      After the deadline, Jackson spent another two weeks on the active roster while receiving only one at-bat. The Twins finally designated him for assignment again in August, and once again, every other team passed.

      Jackson returned to Triple-A, but only for 48 hours. When Austin Martin landed on the injured list, the Twins brought Jackson back. He then spent another five weeks on the roster, collecting just three more at-bats. Now, with the season nearly over, Minnesota has designated him for assignment for a third time.

      The numbers tell the story. Jackson spent 60 games on the active roster after Jeffers returned, but received only 15 at-bats. After the trade deadline, he appeared in 41 games and received just four at-bats.

      That makes the Twins' continued commitment to Jackson difficult to understand unless they view him as their preferred backup catcher for 2027. If that's the plan, the question becomes obvious: Why keep him around for more than two months if the organization wasn't willing to actually use him?

      The Twins have repeatedly protected Jackson's roster spot this season. They just haven't given him many opportunities to justify it.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins are continuing to reshape their front office. According to Bobby Nightengale Jr. of the Star Tribune, assistant general manager Daniel Adler is no longer with the organization. A source confirmed that the two sides mutually agreed to part ways, bringing an end to Adler’s nearly 10-year run with the Twins.

      Adler joined Minnesota in 2017 as the club’s director of baseball operations. He was promoted to assistant general manager in November 2019, moved up to vice president in 2021 and became an executive vice president in February 2025. His responsibilities eventually stretched well beyond traditional baseball operations, as he worked on both the baseball and business sides of the organization.

      On the baseball side, Adler oversaw areas including research and development, salary arbitration and rules compliance while remaining involved in roster construction, player acquisition, player development and athletic performance. His business responsibilities included information technology, human resources and business strategy and analytics.

      That makes his departure another notable change for an organization that has already undergone a significant leadership transition in 2026. The Twins parted ways with Derek Falvey earlier this year, leaving Jeremy Zoll to oversee baseball operations as the team's general manager. At the time, Zoll said the organization was still working through how responsibilities would be structured, while identifying Adler, Alex Hassan and Josh Kalk as key members of the leadership group.

      Now, one of those three assistant general managers is gone. Adler's background made him an unusual and highly qualified member of the Twins' front office. Before joining Minnesota, he worked for Boston Consulting Group and launched the Jacksonville Jaguars' football research department. He also spent time interning with Major League Baseball's labor relations department. Adler earned an economics degree, law degree and MBA from Harvard.

      The timing also creates an interesting opportunity for Adler. With his extensive experience across analytics, roster construction, arbitration and organizational strategy, he could draw interest from other clubs searching for front-office leadership. Houston, Anaheim and Sacramento are among the organizations with general manager openings, although it remains to be seen whether Adler will pursue one of those opportunities.

      For the Twins, the more immediate question is what comes next. Zoll is now firmly in charge of baseball operations, and Minnesota has already begun reshaping its leadership structure following Falvey's departure. Adler's exit adds another major piece to that transformation.

      The Twins' front office is going to look considerably different when the 2027 season begins.

       

      Cody Christie

      Kaelen Culpepper's rookie season may not be over just yet. According to Bobby Nightengale Jr. of the Star Tribune, Culpepper has been doing baseball activities at Target Field while the Twins are on their current road trip. The rookie shortstop is scheduled to run the bases Thursday, and if everything goes according to plan, he could be activated from the 10-day injured list for the final two games of the season.

      That would give Culpepper one more opportunity to put a finishing touch on what has been an encouraging first look at the major-league level.

      Culpepper was placed on the 10-day IL after suffering a mild left hamstring strain during Tuesday's game against the New York Yankees. He tweaked the hamstring in the sixth inning while running out a ground ball, and an MRI the following morning confirmed the strain. The Twins recalled infielder Ben Ross from Triple-A St. Paul to take Culpepper's spot on the active roster.

      When the injury happened, manager Derek Shelton left the door open for Culpepper to return before the end of the season. The timing was always going to make that difficult, though. With the season nearly finished, a return would mean Culpepper could play in only the final two games. Now, that possibility appears to be becoming more realistic. 

      Culpepper has provided plenty of reasons for the Twins to want to see more of him. The 23-year-old has hit .275/.333/.404 across 31 games, collecting three home runs, five doubles and 11 RBIs. More importantly, he has looked comfortable defensively at shortstop, grading out as an above-average defender up the middle.

      There is still plenty for Culpepper to learn at the plate and in the field. Thirty-one games is hardly enough time to make sweeping conclusions about a young player's long-term future. Still, his performance has given the Twins another important piece to consider as they build toward 2027. That is what makes these final two games potentially meaningful for Culpepper.

      If he can get through Thursday's running without any setbacks, the Twins could give their rookie shortstop a chance to get back on the field before the season ends. Even a handful of plate appearances would allow him to finish his first major-league season on his own terms rather than watching from the injured list.

      For a Twins team already looking toward the next chapter, getting Culpepper back would be a small but important development. Ending the year healthy, productive and back at shortstop would give the organization another positive reason to feel encouraged about what comes next.

       

      Cody Christie

      The baseball world lost a longtime coach and former Minnesota Twins pitcher Wednesday as Don Cooper passed away at the age of 70.

      While Cooper became best known for his work with the Chicago White Sox, his playing career included a brief stop in Minnesota. The Twins selected Cooper from the New York Yankees organization in the 1980 Rule 5 Draft, giving the right-hander an opportunity to reach the majors after working his way through the Yankees' minor-league system.

      Cooper made his MLB debut with the Twins in 1981 and spent parts of two seasons with the organization. Across 70 innings for Minnesota in 1981 and 1982, he posted a 5.14 ERA and 1.69 WHIP while striking out 38 batters and walking 43. His time with the Twins represented the largest portion of his big-league playing career.

      Cooper also appeared for the Toronto Blue Jays and New York Yankees. He pitched 5 1/3 innings for Toronto in 1983 and another 10 innings for New York in 1985. Cooper remained in professional baseball through the 1987 season, spending time in the minor leagues with the Blue Jays and Baltimore Orioles before eventually moving into coaching.

      That transition ultimately produced a remarkable second career. Cooper joined the White Sox organization in 1988 and remained there for 33 seasons. He became Chicago's major-league pitching coach in 2002 and held that position for 18 full seasons.

      The pinnacle came in 2005 when Cooper helped guide a talented White Sox pitching staff to a World Series championship. That group featured Mark Buehrle, Freddy Garcia, Jon Garland, José Contreras and Orlando Hernández.

      Chicago's championship run was particularly memorable because the White Sox pitching staff threw four consecutive complete games during the postseason, becoming the first team to accomplish that feat since the 1928 Yankees.

      The White Sox recognized Cooper's lengthy contribution to the organization following his passing.

      "Don Cooper spent 33 seasons as a coach in the White Sox organization from 1988-2020, including 18 full seasons as the major-league pitching coach. Cooper served as the pitching coach for the 2005 World Series champion club, which became the first team since the 1928 Yankees to toss four consecutive complete games in a single postseason," the team said. "Forever in our thoughts."

      For Twins fans, Cooper's legacy is a reminder of how many different paths can emerge from a short stint in Minnesota. His playing career with the Twins lasted only two seasons, but his impact on baseball continued for decades after he left the organization.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins are making another change behind the scenes. The organization has parted ways with longtime scout and former amateur scouting director Deron Johnson, according to Bobby Nightengale Jr. of the Star Tribune. The Twins eliminated Johnson's senior advisor position, bringing an end to more than three decades with the organization.

      Johnson originally joined Minnesota in January 1994 as an area scout covering Northern California. He eventually moved into a larger role as the club's West Coast supervisor before being promoted to scouting director in September 2007.

      His tenure leading the amateur scouting department included nine drafts and several notable selections. The first draft under his direction produced Aaron Hicks with the 14th overall pick in 2008. Johnson was also at the helm when Minnesota selected Byron Buxton second overall in 2012.

      Other first-round selections made while Johnson served as scouting director included Kohl Stewart, Nick Gordon and Tyler Jay. Not every pick developed into a long-term contributor, but Johnson's fingerprints were on a significant portion of the organization's amateur talent pipeline during that era.

      The Twins moved Johnson into a senior advisory role following the 2016 season. Rather than stepping away from scouting, he continued evaluating talent and contributed to professional, international and minor-league scouting efforts. Now, that position has been eliminated.

      The timing is notable as Minnesota continues making changes throughout its baseball operations department. The Twins entered the final week of the 2026 season already eliminated from postseason contention, with the organization beginning to look toward what comes next.

      Johnson's departure also comes on the same day Minnesota selected the contract of Aaron Sabato, the former first-round pick from the 2020 draft, allowing him to make his major-league debut.

      After 32 years with the Twins and a career that included nearly every level of the scouting department, Johnson's departure represents the end of a significant chapter in Minnesota's front-office history.

       

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins are running out the final days of their 2026 season, and Trevor Larnach likely won't be part of them. Minnesota placed Larnach on the 10-day injured list Friday with a left wrist sprain. The move was made retroactive to September 15. To take his place on the roster, the Twins recalled outfielder Alan Roden from Triple-A St. Paul.

      Technically, Larnach could return for Minnesota's final series against the Texas Rangers at Target Field. Realistically, there isn't much reason to rush him back. The Twins are out of the playoff picture, and Larnach would be better served using the final days of the season to allow his wrist to recover rather than potentially making the injury worse.

      Larnach appeared in 122 games this season, hitting .269/.352/.436 (.788) with 13 home runs, 23 doubles, and a 121 OPS+. His opportunities were heavily tilted toward right-handed pitching, with all but 55 of his plate appearances coming against righties.

      That split could be an important consideration heading into the offseason. Larnach posted an .819 OPS against right-handed pitchers but just a .572 OPS against lefties.

      The Twins also have an offseason decision to make. Larnach is under team control through arbitration next season and is in line for a raise from his $4.475 million salary. At the same time, Minnesota has several younger outfielders who could make his roster spot less secure. Luke Keaschall, Walker Jenkins, and Emmanuel Rodriguez could all factor into the team's plans.

      That makes these final days particularly important for Roden. The 26-year-old has 79 big-league plate appearances this season, hitting .254/.333/.313 (.647) with four doubles. His Triple-A season was interrupted by a small labrum tear in his right shoulder, but he has produced when healthy. In 48 games with the Saints, Roden has posted an .853 OPS with nine home runs and nine doubles. Now, he'll have a handful of games to remind the Twins why he belongs in their plans.

      Larnach's injury isn't necessarily a reflection of where he stands with the organization, but the timing gives Minnesota another opportunity to evaluate its crowded outfield. The Twins have several decisions coming this winter, and every at-bat from Roden could matter when those decisions arrive.

       

      Steve Drumwright

      Whether or not he returns this season, the Minnesota Twins know they have something good in Kaelen Culpepper.

      The rookie shortstop was placed on the 10-day injured list Wednesday by the Twins due to a strained left hamstring. Fellow rookie shortstop Ben Ross was called up from Triple-A St. Paul.

      Culpepper left Tuesday's 8-1 loss to the New York Yankees in the sixth inning after trying to beat out a double-play grounder and feeling something in his left hamstring. Twins Daily's No. 3 prospect was slashing .275/.333/.404 with three homers and 11 RBIs in his first 31 games. Manager Derek Shelton said the Twins would like to have Culpepper back for the final two games of the regular season, but also know the rookie's season could be over.

      Ross came up when rosters expanded Sept. 1 (he was to be Rule 5-eligible this offseason anyways). He only played in three games, going 0-for-4. Ross was slashing .273/.379/.500 with 20 homers and 71 RBIs in the minors this season.

      Cody Christie

      The Twins have spent much of September trying to keep their lineup intact, but another injury concern surfaced Tuesday night. Kaelen Culpepper was forced to leave Minnesota’s game after the sixth inning because of left hamstring tightness. The timing is particularly frustrating for a young player who had just returned to the lineup after missing two games because of a hit-by-pitch.

      Culpepper appeared to feel the issue while trying to beat out a potential double-play ball. After being ruled out at first base, he reached toward the back of his left leg before eventually leaving the game. Ryan Kreidler took over at shortstop for the seventh inning.

      Manager Derek Shelton said after the game that Culpepper noticed the problem almost immediately.

      “What he told me was that he felt it the first move out of the box,” said Shelton. “So we’ll get an MRI in the morning and see where he’s at. Honestly, it sucks. Just because of the fact that we’re late in the schedule and how well he’s played and what he’s done.”

      The Twins should have a better idea of the severity after Culpepper undergoes an MRI. Until then, the team will have to wait to determine whether this is something that could cost him additional time or simply require some rest.

      This is another frustrating development for Culpepper, who has been an important part of Minnesota’s lineup during the second half. The former first-round pick has been given an extended opportunity at the major-league level, and his recent performance has helped strengthen his case for being the club’s Opening Day shortstop next season.

      Culpepper is hitting .275/.333/.404 (.737) with five doubles, three home runs, and a 107 OPS+. Defensively, he’s also been an upgrade over other options for the Twins. He has a 1 OAA and his 88.2 mph arm strength ranks in the 75th percentile. 

      The injury also comes at an unfortunate time for the Twins. With only a little more than a week remaining in the regular season, there isn't much calendar left for injured players to work their way back. Culpepper already spent time recovering from Saturday’s hit-by-pitch against Cleveland. Now, Minnesota will hope Tuesday’s hamstring issue is a short-term setback rather than another extended absence.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins entered Monday’s series opener against the New York Yankees with an increasingly thin lineup. With roughly two weeks left in the regular season, Kaelen Culpepper, Royce Lewis, and Trevor Larnach were all unavailable, leaving Minnesota without several regular contributors.

      Larnach’s absence could be the most concerning of the group. The outfielder underwent an MRI on his left wrist Monday after dealing with soreness for several days, leaving his availability for the remainder of the series uncertain.

      Manager Derek Shelton explained that Larnach’s wrist became more problematic after a slide during Sunday’s game.

      “He’s dealing with some left wrist soreness,” Shelton said, “so we sent him for an MRI. He has felt it for a few days, and then he felt it sliding yesterday. And then when he came in today, tried to go through his routine and just didn’t go kind of the way he wanted it to. So we’re just going to get it looked at.”

      The Twins turned to Emmanuel Rodriguez in left field for Monday’s game. If Larnach needs to miss significant time, Rodriguez would appear to be one of Minnesota’s best options for taking on additional opportunities down the stretch.

      That would be an important development for Rodriguez, who is out of minor league options for next season. More consistent playing time could give the young outfielder an opportunity to establish himself heading into the offseason.

      Larnach, meanwhile, has put together one of his strongest seasons since reaching the majors. The 29-year-old entered Monday hitting .269/.352/.436 while serving as a regular presence in left field. His 2.2 fWAR and 123 wRC+ are both career bests.

      For a Twins team already dealing with multiple injuries and limited lineup depth, losing Larnach for an extended period would be another difficult blow. The MRI should provide a clearer picture of the injury and how Minnesota will have to manage his workload over the final two weeks of the season.

       

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins are once again putting Pablo López forward for one of Major League Baseball's most prestigious honors. The club announced Monday morning that López has been selected as Minnesota's nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award. It marks the third consecutive season the Twins have nominated López for the award and the fourth time overall that he has been recognized by the organization for his work in the community.

      López has not been able to contribute on the mound for Minnesota this season, but his absence from the rotation has not kept him from making an impact elsewhere. His work with teammates, children and families throughout the Twin Cities has continued despite spending the year rehabbing from injury.

      "Like Roberto Clemente before him, Pablo López exemplifies humanity, compassion, and the best of our game," Twins General Manager Jeremy Zoll said in a statement.

      "Even in a year when injury prevented him from pitching, Pablo's commitment to others, from teammates to those less fortunate, never wavered. His integrity, generosity, and leadership make our clubhouse, our organization, and our communities better every day."

      The Roberto Clemente Award is given annually to the player who best represents the game through community involvement, philanthropy and character both on and off the field. Each of MLB's 30 clubs selects one nominee, with the league's winner announced during the World Series. The Twins have a recent history of having their nominees recognized, with Nelson Cruz winning the award in 2021.

      For López, much of his community work has centered around children. His connection to children's hospitals has a particularly personal meaning because both of his parents were doctors before their passing.

      Each September, López continues a tradition of visiting patients at Children's Minnesota and M Health Fairview as part of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. His work with young patients has remained a priority even during a season in which he has been unable to pitch.

      López has also continued working with the Twins Community Fund and its youth programs. He has participated in the Twins High School Leadership Academy, speaking with students about leadership and his experiences. He has also helped put baseball equipment into the hands of Minneapolis children and participated in clinics for young athletes.

      His community work extends beyond the Twin Cities as well. López has remained closely connected to his Venezuelan heritage and has used his platform to support causes important to his home country.

      Earlier this year, López participated in a recess takeover at a Minneapolis elementary school, connecting with Venezuelan students while celebrating Día del Niño. After devastating earthquakes struck Venezuela in June, he used his social media presence to raise awareness and funds for relief efforts. He also directed his Twins Community Fund charitable giving toward three organizations assisting with recovery efforts.

      That work helps explain why López continues to be recognized for the Roberto Clemente Award despite not throwing a single pitch for the Twins this season. The right-hander's 2026 season has been defined by rehabilitation rather than starts, but his presence around the organization has remained significant. López has continued to lead by example, support his teammates and give his time to people throughout the community.

      Now, Twins fans have an opportunity to help recognize that work. Voting for the Roberto Clemente Award is open through September 27 at 11:59 p.m. Fans can cast their votes for López through MLB's website, with the eventual winner set to receive the award during the World Series.

      Cody Christie

      Royce Lewis’ difficult 2026 season took another frustrating turn on Sunday. The Minnesota Twins announced that Lewis exited Sunday’s 9-2 loss to the Cleveland Guardians after five innings because of left shoulder soreness. Lewis made a diving play to record the final out of the fourth inning at first base, and it appears that play caused the issue to flare up again.

      Lewis remained in the game for the bottom of the fourth, where he flew out to right field in his final at-bat. Victor Caratini replaced Lewis at first base to begin the sixth inning.

      Following the game, Twins manager Derek Shelton said Lewis aggravated the soreness during the defensive play that ended the fourth inning.

      “Two pitches before he had the F9, I think he kind of tweaked it a little bit again,” Shelton said. “He’s day to day, and we’ll kind of see how he is tomorrow.”

      The injury is another concern for a player who has struggled to find consistency throughout the 2026 season. Lewis has appeared in 114 games for Minnesota, hitting .230/.297/.391 (.6880 with 14 home runs and 53 RBI.

      It has been a particularly challenging year for Lewis after the Twins gave him a reset in the minor leagues earlier this season. Minnesota sent Lewis to Triple-A in an effort to get him regular at-bats and allow him to work through some of the issues that had plagued him at the major-league level. The reset provided some reason for optimism, but Lewis has struggled to maintain any momentum since returning to Minnesota.

      His recent stretch has been especially difficult. Lewis has hit just one home run since August 7, and over his last 131 plate appearances, he has slashed .228/.267/.317 for a .584 OPS. He has struck out 34 times during that span while drawing only seven walks.

      Those numbers help put Sunday's injury into a larger context. Lewis was already trying to find his footing at the plate, and now the Twins will have to wait and see whether his shoulder soreness forces him to miss additional time.

      For a player Minnesota once viewed as a potential cornerstone of its lineup, the 2026 season has been filled with more questions than answers. The Twins will hope Sunday's issue is minor and that Lewis can get back on the field quickly. For now, though, Lewis is officially day-to-day.

       

      Cody Christie

      Kaelen Culpepper had a scary moment in what was an exciting inning for young Twins players. Emmanuel Rodriguez had homered in his first big-league at-bat earlier in the frame. Then Culpepper was hit by a pitch.  Guardians reliever Franco Aleman fired a 95.3 mph fastball that struck Culpepper in the upper back and shoulder area. The right-handed hitter immediately went to the ground in pain, creating an understandably concerning scene for the Twins.

      Culpepper eventually got back to his feet and began making his way toward first base under his own power. He made it roughly halfway down the line before stopping. The Twins training staff attended to him before the club removed him from the game. Ryan Kreidler entered as a pinch-runner for Culpepper and took over at shortstop.

      Fortunately, the initial testing provided some good news. The Twins announced that Culpepper suffered a right shoulder contusion. X-rays were negative for a fracture, and the rookie is considered day to day. That designation should provide some relief, especially considering the timing of the injury. Culpepper was also hit by a pitch during Friday’s loss to Cleveland, making Saturday’s incident his second consecutive game taking a pitch.

      Culpepper has quickly established himself as an important part of the Twins’ future since making his Major League debut on August 7. He is hitting .286 across his first 30 games and has provided the club with another young player capable of handling a premium defensive position.

      The Twins have spent recent weeks of this season looking toward the future, and Culpepper represents an important part of that future. His development over the final weeks of the season can help Minnesota determine how he fits into the organization’s plans moving forward.

      For now, though, the biggest concern is simply making sure Culpepper is healthy. The initial diagnosis is encouraging. A shoulder contusion can still require some time away, particularly for a player who needs to throw across the diamond every day, but the absence of a fracture is the news everyone in Twins Territory wanted to hear.

      After the excitement surrounding Rodriguez’s first career homer, the Twins quickly went from celebration to concern. Thankfully, Saturday’s scare appears to be just that: a scare.

       

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins are getting a useful piece of their roster back at an important time of the season. The Twins activated Austin Martin from the 10-day injured list Thursday afternoon, putting the versatile outfielder back in the lineup after he missed nearly a month with a left hamstring strain.

      Martin's last appearance came on August 16, when he injured the hamstring trying to track down a fly ball near the left-field line. The Twins appear satisfied that he is ready to return after a brief rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul.

      Martin appeared in two games for the Saints earlier this week, going 3-for-8 with a triple and three RBIs. Rehab statistics don't carry much weight when evaluating a player, but seeing Martin run the bases and play in games without an apparent setback was an important step following a hamstring injury.

      Now, the Twins need to figure out how to use him. Martin isn't going to transform the Minnesota offense by himself. He is hitting .241 with three home runs, 21 RBIs and a .686 OPS, good for a 95 OPS+, across 110 games this season.

      Finding Martin At-Bats

      The Twins already have a crowded outfield, which means bringing Martin back creates another roster puzzle for Shelton.  One potential solution is splitting time between Martin and Trevor Larnach. Larnach has been mired in an extended slump that dates back roughly a month, making it difficult to justify running him out there every day regardless of the matchup.

      Martin's return gives Shelton the ability to mix and match. That doesn't mean Martin needs to become an everyday player. His defensive versatility allows him to move around the outfield, and his ability to handle multiple spots gives the Twins flexibility from one game to the next.

      At this point in the season, that flexibility matters. Martin may not be the answer to all of those problems, but getting him healthy gives Minnesota another competent option and lengthens the lineup. The hope is that Martin can find a rhythm quickly and provide a spark over the final weeks.

      Gonzalez Heads Back to St. Paul

      To make room for Martin, the Twins optioned outfielder Gabriel Gonzalez to Triple-A St. Paul. Gonzalez appeared in seven games with Minnesota this season but received only eight at-bats. He went 2-for-8, with his other plate appearance resulting in a hit by pitch.

      That's hardly enough time to make a meaningful evaluation. Sending Gonzalez back to St. Paul makes sense if the Twins aren't going to give him regular playing time. Sitting on the bench at the major-league level doesn't do much for a young player who needs consistent at-bats.

      Gonzalez remains an interesting piece for the Twins moving forward. He could potentially compete for a fourth-outfielder role next season, or find himself in the mix for a larger role if injuries or poor performance create an opening. But the Twins need to see more from him before making that decision. The final games of the season should give Gonzalez an opportunity to play regularly and show the organization what he can do. Strong performance could strengthen his case for a role in Minnesota. 

      For now, though, the focus returns to Martin. The Twins have another versatile defender, another left-field option and another bat capable of moving around the lineup. Martin may not be a star, but players who can do a little bit of everything become especially valuable when a team is trying to navigate the final stretch of a long season.

      Getting him healthy was the first step. Now Shelton needs to find a way to put him to work.

       

      Cody Christie

      On Monday, the Twins returned Joe Ryan from his rehab assignment and reinstated him from the 15-day injured list, officially putting one of their most important starting pitchers back on the active roster. To make room, Minnesota optioned right-handed reliever Garrett Acton to Triple-A St. Paul.

      Ryan's return comes at a time when the Twins don't have much left to play for in the standings, but there is still plenty of value in getting their All-Star right-hander back on the mound before the season comes to an end.

      Ryan completed a three-inning rehab start for St. Paul on Tuesday night in Omaha. He threw 42 pitches, with 29 finding the strike zone. He also threw roughly 10 additional pitches in the bullpen after completing his scheduled work. That was enough for the Twins to feel comfortable moving forward.

      Ryan also threw a bullpen session over the weekend in Chicago, and the organization ultimately gave him the green light to return to the roster for the team's series against Detroit. The Twins have a TBD scheduled for Monday’s afternoon game in Detroit, so Ryan could take that spot in the rotation. 

      The rehab outing certainly wasn't perfect, but it accomplished what Ryan and the Twins wanted. He got back on the mound, worked through multiple innings and came out of the outing feeling good.

      Ryan's fastball velocity sat around 91-92 mph in Omaha. That's noticeably below the 93.4 mph average he has carried this season. For a pitcher like Ryan, whose effectiveness comes from command, deception and the ability to locate his pitches rather than overpower hitters, a drop in velocity is worth monitoring.

      The conditions in Omaha were extremely hot, and Ryan acknowledged that he wasn't trying to reach back for the same velocity he would during a regular-season Major League start. The goal was to work through his pitches and make sure his body responded well to the outing. More importantly, Ryan came away encouraged by the quality of his pitches. That's the part the Twins should care about most.

      And the Twins could certainly use him. Getting him back gives the organization another opportunity to evaluate what its pitching staff can look like heading into 2027. It also provides Ryan with a chance to finish his season on a positive note after an interrupted campaign.

      Acton's departure is the corresponding roster move. He appeared in seven games for Minnesota this season, allowing seven earned runs across 11 innings. He struck out 14 batters but also issued six walks.

      His numbers in Triple-A tell a different story. Acton owns a 2.55 ERA with 23 strikeouts and just eight walks across 17 2/3 innings for St. Paul. He has shown enough there to remain a potential bullpen option for the Twins, particularly as the organization continues evaluating its pitching depth.

      For now, though, the attention shifts back to Ryan. And after watching the Twins navigate the final stretch of the season without one of their best starters, that return can't come soon enough.

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