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      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins officially unveiled their 2027 regular season schedule, providing fans with their first look at next year's road map. While game times and promotions will come later, the schedule already offers several intriguing storylines, including the earliest Opening Day in franchise history, another road opener, and a summer packed with marquee opponents at Target Field.

      Here's a closer look at what stands out from Minnesota's 2027 schedule.

      Earliest Opening Day in Twins History

      The Twins will begin the 2027 season on Thursday, March 25, when they travel to Kauffman Stadium to face the Kansas City Royals. It marks the earliest Opening Day in franchise history, one day earlier than last season's March 26 opener.

      Minnesota will spend the opening week on the road before returning to Target Field for its home opener on Friday, April 2 against the Tampa Bay Rays.

      The club will play six games during March, the most the franchise has ever played before the calendar flips to April. It also continues a recent trend, as the Twins will open the season away from Target Field for the fifth consecutive year and for the 14th time in the past 18 seasons.

      Target Field Loaded with Summer Marquee Matchups

      Fans won't have to wait long for attractive home series. The Twins will play 16 home games during April, welcoming the Washington Nationals and San Diego Padres alongside several American League opponents. Once summer arrives, the home schedule becomes even more appealing.

      Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, Minnesota will play 44 of its 81 home games, giving fans plenty of opportunities to catch baseball during the warmest months of the season.

      Some of the biggest draws coming to Target Field include the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets, Milwaukee Brewers, Arizona Diamondbacks and San Francisco Giants.

      The schedule also includes two separate seven-game homestands in June featuring opponents such as the Los Angeles Angels, Chicago White Sox, New York Yankees and Cleveland Guardians.

      Balanced Schedule Continues Across Baseball

      Major League Baseball's balanced scheduling format remains in place for 2027, meaning the Twins will once again play every other club in the league.

      Minnesota will face each of its four American League Central rivals 13 times, splitting home and road games against the Chicago White Sox, Cleveland Guardians, Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals.

      The interleague schedule brings 24 National League games to Target Field. Home opponents include the Nationals, Padres, Pirates, Mets, Cubs, Diamondbacks, Brewers and Giants. On the road, the Twins will visit the Los Angeles Dodgers, Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals, Colorado Rockies, Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies and Miami Marlins.

      One of the highlights comes during MLB's annual Rivalry Weekend, when Minnesota travels to Milwaukee from July 16-18 before welcoming the Cubs to Target Field the following weekend, July 23-25.

      Road Trips and September Finish

      The longest trip away from home comes early in the season. Minnesota's toughest stretch will run from May 28 through June 6, a nine-game, 10-day trip that includes stops in Toronto, Detroit and Atlanta.

      When September arrives, the Twins will finish the regular season at Target Field. They'll host the San Francisco Giants from Sept. 21-23 before closing the regular season with a three-game series against the Detroit Tigers from Sept. 24-26. 

      Ending the season at home could prove significant if Minnesota finds itself battling for an American League Central title or postseason berth down the stretch.

      Still Waiting on the Details

      While the schedule is now official, several pieces of information remain to be announced.

      Game times, television schedules, promotional nights, giveaways and ticket sale dates will all be released at a later date. Those announcements typically come throughout the offseason as clubs finalize broadcast schedules and promotional calendars.

      For now, Twins fans can begin planning around an early Opening Day, another full slate against every Major League club and a summer schedule filled with some of baseball's biggest attractions.

       

      Matthew Lenz

      With the 2025 MLB draft behind us, many prospectors will be updating their prospect lists. Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic is one of the first to do so.

      Of the 21 Minnesota Twins draftees, three of them make Gleeman's top 20 from jump.

      Marek Houston, the Twins' 16th overall pick, cracks the top 10, coming in at number 7 on the list. Currently, he looks to be a glove-first shortstop, though his hit tool improved over three seasons for the Wake Forest Demons.

      Riley Quick, drafted 36th overall (1st round comp pick), rounds out the top 10. He's been compared to 2023 Twins draftees, Connor Prielipp, as a drafted out of Alabama with big-time stuff but injury concerns.

      Quentin Young, drafted 54th overall, comes in at number 15. A prep infielder, Young is extremely young, raw, and projectible.

      Other notable movement in his top 20 includes SP Dasan Hill jumping from 20th to 6th, OF Gabriel Gonzalez from 21st to 8th, and SP Jose Olivares from 35th to 20.

      Be sure to check out our 2025 Minnesota Twins Draft Pick Tracker for in-depth scouting reports and articles on the most recent group of draftees.

      After you do, let us know what you think of the Twins draft in comments!

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins announced Thursday that former pitcher Al Worthington passed away earlier this week at the age of 97.

      For younger Twins fans, Worthington's name may not immediately jump off the page. However, his impact on some of the most successful teams in franchise history is impossible to overlook. Long before closers became baseball celebrities and bullpen usage charts consumed front offices, Worthington quietly became one of the game's most reliable late-inning arms and a key contributor to Minnesota's first American League pennant.

      Worthington arrived in professional baseball after starring at the University of Alabama and signing with the Chicago Cubs organization in 1951. After only one season in the minors, he was traded to the New York Giants, a move that would launch a major-league career spanning parts of 14 seasons.

      His introduction to the majors was memorable. Called up in 1953, Worthington opened his career by throwing complete-game shutouts in each of his first two appearances. He posted a 3.44 ERA as a rookie and appeared briefly for the Giants during their 1954 championship season. Although he did not pitch in the World Series, he was part of the club that defeated Cleveland in a Fall Classic best remembered for Willie Mays' iconic over-the-shoulder catch at the Polo Grounds.

      Worthington spent six seasons with the Giants organization, including the franchise's historic move from New York to San Francisco in 1958. Along the way, he transitioned from starting pitcher to reliever, a role that ultimately prolonged his career. Stops with the Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, and Cincinnati Reds followed before his baseball journey took an unexpected turn.

      By 1964, Worthington was 35 years old and back in the minor leagues. Many players at that stage are contemplating retirement. Instead, the Twins purchased his contract from the Reds organization and gave him another opportunity. It turned out to be one of the better under-the-radar moves in franchise history.

      From 1964 through 1969, Worthington became a bullpen cornerstone for Minnesota. He won 37 games, recorded 88 saves, and posted four consecutive seasons with an ERA below 3.00. His finest season came in 1965 when he went 10-7 with 14 saves and a sparkling 2.14 ERA across 62 appearances.

      That season, the Twins captured their first American League pennant and advanced to the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Worthington delivered four scoreless innings during the series, allowing only an unearned run despite Minnesota ultimately falling in seven games.

      The right-hander remained a valuable contributor through the end of the decade, including a final postseason appearance during the Twins' 1969 American League Championship Series run. By the time he retired after the 1969 season, he had established himself as one of the most effective relievers in franchise history.

      Although the save did not become an official Major League Baseball statistic until the final year of his career, Worthington was retroactively credited with 111 saves. He finished his major-league career with a 75-82 record, a 3.09 ERA, 834 strikeouts, and 602 appearances. More than half of those outings ended with him recording the final outs of the game.

      His baseball accomplishments extended well beyond the major leagues. Before reaching the majors, Worthington spent four seasons with the Minneapolis Millers and helped lead the club to the 1955 American Association championship while posting a 19-10 record with 18 complete games. In nine minor-league seasons, he compiled a 98-69 record.

      After retiring as a player at age 40, Worthington dedicated nearly two decades to coaching and administration at what is now Liberty University. From 1973 through 1986, he amassed a 343-189-1 record as the school's baseball coach and later served as athletic director. His contributions earned him induction into both the Liberty University Hall of Fame and the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.

      In 2010, the Twins recognized his place in franchise history by naming him one of the organization's "50 Greatest Twins." Worthington was the fourth-oldest living former major-league player at the time of his passing and one of the last remaining players who wore a Giants uniform before the franchise relocated to San Francisco.

      For Twins fans, however, his legacy will always be tied to the club's first pennant winner. More than 60 years after arriving in Minnesota as a veteran searching for one last opportunity, Worthington remains one of the most successful bullpen arms the franchise has ever had.

      Cody Christie

      The Twins will have to finish the 2026 season without one of their veteran left-handed relievers. Anthony Banda told reporters that he recently underwent surgery to repair his injured lat, ending his season. The veteran southpaw expects to be fully recovered in time for spring training next February.

      While the news isn't entirely surprising, it officially closes the door on any chance of Banda returning for a late-season playoff push.

      Banda was placed on the 15-day injured list earlier this month with what the Twins initially described as a lat strain. At the time, manager Derek Shelton acknowledged the injury was significant and suggested Banda's recovery would be measured in months rather than weeks. There was still some optimism that he could return, but this specific surgery eliminates that possibility. Minnesota will eventually transfer him to the 60-day injured list once it needs another spot on the 40-man roster.

      Although Banda's overall numbers don't jump off the page, he had quietly become one of the Twins' more dependable relievers before getting hurt. He finished the year with a 4.46 ERA across 34 1/3 innings, but those numbers were heavily skewed by a difficult start to the season. Beginning on May 5, Banda posted a 1.33 ERA over his final 20 1/3 innings. That stretch came with some favorable fortune, including a .259 batting average on balls in play and a 90.6% strand rate, but he consistently gave the Twins quality innings during that stretch.

      That's a difficult arm to lose for a bullpen that has struggled to find consistency all season. Minnesota's relievers own a collective 5.24 ERA, tied with the Royals for the worst mark in Major League Baseball. Even if Banda's dominant stretch wasn't completely sustainable, his absence leaves the Twins with even fewer reliable late-inning options as they continue to chase a postseason berth.

      Despite those bullpen struggles, Minnesota remains in the thick of the American League playoff race, sitting just a half-game out of a Wild Card spot. For now, Taylor Rogers and Kody Funderburk become the club's primary left-handed relief options, while Kendry Rojas was recalled to provide additional length out of the bullpen. If the Twins remain in contention over the next few weeks, adding another bullpen arm could become an even bigger priority before the trade deadline.

      For Banda, the injury comes at an unfortunate time in his career. After spending 2025 with the Dodgers, Banda struggled during the postseason and found himself designated for assignment in February because he was out of minor league options. The Twins acquired him by sending international bonus pool space to Los Angeles, hoping his recent success would carry over to Minnesota.

      Financially, the Twins still have a decision looming this offseason. Banda is earning $1.625 million this season and remains arbitration eligible for 2027. Minnesota will need to determine whether to tender him a contract before November, and the progress of his recovery will likely factor into that decision.

      Unfortunately for both Banda and the Twins, they'll have to wait until 2027 to find out whether he can continue building on his success with the club.

       

      Cody Christie

      The final stretch of spring training is supposed to be about decisions, not diagnoses. For the Twins, that equation shifted quickly on Monday when Austin Martin exited Minnesota’s game against the Pirates with a concussion, creating uncertainty just days before the roster is finalized.

      Martin was lifted from the contest after sustaining the injury during Minnesota’s 5-1 victory. The play in question came in the third inning when he tracked a ball into right field off the bat of Henry Davis. Attempting to make a diving grab, Martin hit the ground awkwardly and appeared shaken up as he got back to his feet.

      After the impact, Martin remained in the game and collected a single in the bottom of the third. However, he showed signs of discomfort and was removed before the start of the fourth inning, with James Outman replacing him in right field.

      Twins manager Derek Shelton provided an update after the game, outlining the immediate plan for Martin’s recovery.

      “He won’t do anything through the next two days, and then we’ll reevaluate him,” Shelton said.

      The sequence of events raised concern in real time, particularly as Martin began to show signs of discomfort after the play.

      “When he dove, I think he kind of jarred himself a little bit,” Shelton said. “I think once he got on the bases, he realized he was a little bit dizzy. And then as he walked past [bench coach Mark Hallberg] and I, we kind of saw a little bit of hesitation, and then [head athletic trainer Nick Paparesta] got to him.”

      At this point, there is no firm timetable for Martin’s return, which is less than ideal given how firmly he had worked his way into the roster conversation. The former top prospect had been trending toward a role in the outfield mix, offering defensive flexibility with the ability to handle center field and even contribute at second base if needed.

      His trajectory dates back to last season, when he capitalized on an opportunity late in the year following Minnesota’s trade deadline selloff. Martin responded with some of the most productive baseball of his career by posting a 106 OPS+, putting himself squarely on the radar entering camp this spring.

      The timing of the injury is what stings most. With Opening Day looming, Martin represented one of the few right-handed-hitting outfield options expected to break camp with the club. If he is unable to clear concussion protocol in time, the Twins may need to pivot quickly.

      That could open the door for players on the roster bubble. Ryan Kreidler brings right-handed balance and defensive versatility. Alan Roden offers a left-handed bat with upside. Veteran Orlando Arcia also remains a possibility as a depth option if the team prioritizes experience.

      For now, though, the focus remains on Martin. Concussions are unpredictable, and even minor symptoms can linger longer than expected. In a camp where every at-bat and inning matters, the Twins will have to wait and see if one of their most intriguing roster pieces can get back on the field in time.

      Steve Drumwright

       

       

      The next man up in the Minnesota Twins' bullpen shuffle is Austin Voth.

      The right-hander had his contract selected from Triple-A St. Paul on Tuesday, with the Twins sending right-hander Cody Laweryson down to St. Paul.

      Voth was designated for assignment by the Toronto Blue Jays, then latched on with the Twins on a minor-league contract on June 4. Voth made two appearances and pitched six innings for the Jays, giving up six runs on eight hits and five walks with just one strikeout. In three appearances at St. Paul, Voth surrendered nine runs (eight earned) on 14 hits with six walks and 17 strikeouts. Voth originally signed a minor-league contract with the Chicago White Sox this offseason before being released late in spring training.

      Laweryson has pitched in 16 innings over 14 games, posting a 5.06 ERA (4.97 FIP) with seven walks and 18 strikeouts.

       

       

      Cory Moen

      Bailey Ober has completed his rehab assignment and been returned to the active roster prior to the finale against the Guardians. He threw 8 1/3 innings in two rehab starts with Cedar Rapids and St. Paul. Prior to going on the injured list, Ober had 12 starts for the Twins, with a 4.59 ERA and 4.98 FIP. He's had his ups and downs but the hope is that he can provide some veteran depth in a rotation that has showed promise at times.

      Along with Ober being reinstated, LHP Kendry Rojas was recalled from Triple-A. He's bounced between the majors at Triple-A this year. In his time in the majors, he has looked promising, throwing 16 1/3 innings over six appearances. In that time, he has struck out 18 hitters, but also walked 13. If he can improve the walk rate, there is plenty of promise in the young lefty, either as a starter, or more likely as a relief option going forward.

      The last move made was that Connor Prielipp has been placed on the 15-day injured list with a finger blister on his left middle finger. Prielipp has been solid in the rotation this year, most recently pitching on Wednesday, giving up three runs over five innings pitched in a game the Twins won in walk-off fashion. On the year, Prielipp has a 5.00 ERA and a much better 3.90 FIP. In 66 2/3 innings, he has recorded 71 strikeouts over 13 appearances. The timing of the injured list stint could be beneficial with the All-Star Break right around the corner, so Prielipp could miss fewer games as long as the blister doesn't turn into a longer-lasting issue. He was not scheduled to start until after the break, so he won't miss a start until after the All-Star break is finished. 

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have watched Byron Buxton put together plenty of memorable seasons throughout his career, but 2026 has been something different. Healthy (knock on wood), productive, and once again one of the game's most dynamic players, Buxton is now one step closer to receiving the recognition that has long felt overdue.

      Major League Baseball announced the results of Phase 1 of All-Star voting on Thursday, and Buxton advanced to Phase 2 as one of six American League outfield finalists. Now, with the vote totals reset, Twins fans have one more opportunity to help send their center fielder to Philadelphia as a starting outfielder in the 2026 MLB All-Star Game.

      Finally Getting the Recognition

      Buxton's talent has never been questioned. Staying on the field has often been the only thing standing between him and national superstardom. This season, he's erased those questions.

      After launching 35 home runs during his All-Star campaign in 2025, Buxton has somehow raised the bar even higher. Entering the final days before voting resumes, he is tied with Yordan Alvarez for the American League lead with 25 home runs, putting him on pace to eclipse the 50-homer mark for the first time in his career.

      His .912 OPS ranks as the second-best mark of his career, trailing only his remarkable 2021 season, when injuries limited him to just 61 games despite producing like one of baseball's best hitters. It's the kind of production Twins fans have always believed was possible when Buxton is healthy. Now the rest of baseball is taking notice.

      A Crowded Race in the AL Outfield

      Phase 2 won't be easy. Buxton will compete with Aaron Judge, Mike Trout, Cody Bellinger, Daulton Varsho, and Jesús Sánchez for one of three starting outfield spots.

      Judge and Trout remain two of the sport's biggest stars, but both enter the final round while on the injured list. Judge is recovering from a stress fracture in his ribs and is not expected back until after the All-Star break. Trout is dealing with a right hamstring strain but could return before the Midsummer Classic.

      Meanwhile, Bellinger has enjoyed a strong bounce-back season after returning to New York, while Toronto teammates Varsho and Sánchez are both looking to earn the first All-Star selections of their careers.

      Despite the talented field, Buxton has a compelling case that extends well beyond his home run total. He continues to provide strong defense in center field while serving as the centerpiece of Minnesota's offense nearly every night. That's the type of complete player deserving of an All-Star start.

      Twins Fans Can Finish the Job

      The biggest twist in MLB's voting process is that nothing from Phase 1 carries over. Although Buxton received more than 1.6 million votes to comfortably advance, every finalist now starts back at zero.

      Phase 2 voting opens at 11:00 a.m. CT on Monday, June 29th, and runs through 11:00 a.m. CT on Thursday, July 2nd. Fans can cast one ballot every 24 hours through MLB's website, club websites, the MLB App, and MLB Ballpark App. The winners will be announced on July 4, with pitchers and reserves revealed shortly afterward.

      Buxton has spent more than a decade giving Twins fans highlight-reel catches, breathtaking speed, and tape-measure home runs. This season has showcased everything that has made him one of baseball's most exciting players, only this time with the consistency that comes from being healthy.

      Now comes the final push. Phase 1 showed that Buxton has earned national attention. Phase 2 will determine whether he takes the field at Citizens Bank Park as a starter.

      If Twins fans want to see one of the franchise's best seasons in recent memory rewarded with a place in the starting lineup, voting begins Monday. With the totals reset, every vote matters once again, and Minnesota has four days to help send Byron Buxton where he belongs: the All-Star starting lineup.

      Cody Christie

      Durability has never quite matched the talent for Byron Buxton. Over the course of his 12-year big league career, he has dealt with a wide range of injuries, many of them coming in ways that are hard to prevent. Whether it is crashing into walls, colliding with teammates, or wearing pitches, Buxton’s all-out style has often come at a physical cost.

      That reality made Friday night feel all too tense. In the seventh inning of Minnesota’s home opener against the Tampa Bay Rays, Buxton was struck on the right forearm by a 92 mile per hour fastball from Kevin Kelly. The reaction was immediate. He signaled for assistance and headed off the field, leaving a quiet concern hanging over the ballpark.

      It was not the first time this spring that Buxton had been in that situation. While playing for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, he was hit in a game against Team Brazil and forced out shortly after. That incident ultimately proved minor, with imaging showing no structural damage.

      This one followed a similar path. Shortly after exiting Friday’s game, the Twins announced that Buxton’s X-rays came back clean. The official diagnosis was a forearm contusion, meaning the injury is more about soreness than anything long-term.

      Buxton did not make much of it in his postgame remarks, keeping his outlook straightforward.

      “It’s an arm,” he said. “It ain’t broken, so I’m good.”

      That kind of update is about as positive as it gets, given the circumstances. On the field, Minnesota made sure the game itself did not slip away. After Buxton departed, the lineup came alive with a seven-run inning that flipped the night completely. Tristan Gray delivered the biggest swing with his first career grand slam, helping push the Twins to a comfortable 10-4 win.

      Even with the victory, Buxton’s status remains the real storyline. The Twins are still finding their rhythm with a 3-3 record to open the year, and his presence plays a major role in what this team can be. His early numbers at the plate have been modest, but his impact extends well beyond the box score when he is healthy and in center field.

      For now, the organization appears to have avoided a worst-case outcome. Buxton missed Saturday's game, but the early signs point to a manageable situation. Considering his history, that alone is enough to feel like a win.

      Cody Christie

      Monday's pregame news immediately raised concern when Byron Buxton was scratched from the lineup before the series opener against the Houston Astros. Fortunately for the Twins, the initial diagnosis could have been much worse.

      An MRI revealed that Buxton is dealing with a right hip impingement and is considered day-to-day. Manager Derek Shelton said the club has no plans to place him on the Injured List, offering encouraging news after another injury scare involving the franchise centerpiece.

      The issue became more apparent during Sunday's victory over Colorado when Buxton served as the designated hitter. Although he finished 0-for-4 with a strikeout, the bigger concern was how uncomfortable he looked at the plate.

      "He's dealing with a little hip thing that's going on," Shelton said. "We had some imaging done, we're waiting to get back on it. Yesterday after watching him in the box, it didn't look right to me, so we had a conversation. Just giving him a day."

      Shelton remained optimistic after receiving the imaging results.

      "I think right now we're at a day-to-day place. Really never want to get any farther than that. I think over the course of the last week we've seen how well he's moved. We've seen him on the bases. Just yesterday it just didn't look as comfortable."

      For Twins fans, hearing "day-to-day" attached to Buxton is about as positive an outcome as they could have hoped for.

      After years of seeing injuries derail outstanding stretches of play, 2026 has looked different. Buxton has stayed on the field for the overwhelming majority of the season despite a few minor scares. He missed a short period in May because of hip discomfort and later spent time at designated hitter after jamming his shoulder, but he has avoided an Injured List stint altogether.

      That availability has coincided with one of the best offensive seasons of his career. Buxton enters July slashing .268/.325/.573 with 25 home runs, tied for the American League lead. His 43 RBIs don't fully capture his impact, as he's once again become the top of the lineup force Minnesota envisioned years ago. That production has made him one of the favorites to start in the American League outfield at next month's All-Star Game.

      Even without him, Minnesota found a way to pick up an important victory. The Twins opened their series in Houston with a 5-4 win as Royce Lewis, Josh Bell, and Victor Caratini each homered. The victory improved Minnesota to 41-45, leaving the club 4.5 games behind in the American League Central while sitting just two games out of the final Wild Card spot.

      Those standings reinforce why avoiding an extended absence from Buxton matters so much. Minnesota has spent much of the first half hovering around .500, unable to string together the sustained winning streak necessary to climb into playoff position. With the All-Star break approaching, every game carries additional significance.

      Now the focus shifts toward getting him back into the lineup. The Twins continue their series against Houston on Tuesday night before wrapping things up Wednesday. Then comes a trip to the Bronx for a weekend showdown with the Yankees, a venue that has historically been one of Minnesota's toughest road assignments.

      If the Twins hope to build momentum heading into the All-Star break, having Buxton back in center field would be the biggest boost they could ask for. Monday's diagnosis doesn't guarantee he'll avoid further issues, but for a team whose season has already featured plenty of uncertainty, "day-to-day" qualifies as very good news.

      Cody Christie

      As MLB’s August 3 trade deadline inches closer, the Minnesota Twins continue to occupy baseball's uncomfortable middle ground. They're not out of the race. They're not exactly contenders either.

      At 36-40, Minnesota sits third in the American League Central, 4 1/2 games behind the division-leading Cleveland Guardians and lingering on the outskirts of the Wild Card picture. FanGraphs gives them a 28.7% chance of reaching the postseason, which is enough hope to keep the front office from making any easy decisions over the next six weeks.

      That uncertainty has naturally fueled trade speculation, and one name that continues to generate national attention is Byron Buxton. ESPN recently ranked the top trade candidates ahead of the deadline, placing Buxton second overall behind Detroit ace Tarik Skubal. While ESPN acknowledged the hurdles involved, they still assigned a 30% chance that Buxton could be moved before the deadline.

      There's just one problem with that prediction. Buxton doesn't sound remotely interested.

      When asked by The Athletic about his name surfacing in trade rumors, the Twins center fielder didn't leave much room for interpretation.

      Buxton said, "I don't give a f---."

      He wasn't finished.

      "End of the day, nobody's in my shoes. Nobody can say anything about what I'm going to do. I know what I'm a doing. The only way I'm getting out of here -- they're going to have to come talk to me and tell me something else. Simple as that. ... I ain't said nothing about leaving, nor will I. I'm a Twin."

      That's about as definitive as a player can be. Of course, Buxton has backed up those words before. During the 2025 All-Star festivities, he repeatedly stated his desire to spend his entire career in Minnesota. Every time the topic has surfaced over the last couple of seasons, his answer has remained remarkably consistent.

      He's a Twin, and he wants to stay a Twin. That matters because Buxton isn't just another player with trade value. He controls much of the situation himself.

      The 32-year-old has two seasons remaining after this year on the seven-year, $100 million extension he signed before the 2022 season. More importantly, he possesses a full no-trade clause and reached 10-5 rights earlier this season. Any potential deal would require his approval.

      That's a significant obstacle for rival executives dreaming up blockbuster scenarios. Could Buxton waive that protection under the right circumstances? Sure. Every no-trade clause comes with an asking price. But based on everything he's said publicly, there is currently no indication that he's looking for a way out.

      And from Minnesota's perspective, trading him would be complicated even if they wanted to explore the possibility.

      The Twins already endured a painful teardown last summer when they moved 10 players at the trade deadline. Ownership then followed by trimming approximately $38 million from payroll during the offseason. Asking fans to watch another sell-off while simultaneously moving the most popular player in the organization would be difficult to justify.

      It would also mean parting with one of the best seasons of Buxton's career. Through 64 games, he's batting .270 with 23 home runs and 36 RBIs while once again providing elite defense in center field. When healthy, he's still capable of impacting games in ways very few players can.

      That's why national outlets continue to mention his name. Teams would line up for the opportunity to acquire a player with Buxton's talent. The challenge is that the player himself doesn't seem interested in joining that conversation.

      The Twins still have plenty of time to determine whether they'll buy, sell, or attempt something in between. Their performance over the next six weeks will likely dictate the direction of the deadline. But unless Buxton experiences a dramatic change of heart, the trade rumors surrounding him may be generating far more noise outside Minnesota than inside the clubhouse.

      For now, Buxton's stance remains exactly what it has been for years. He's a Twin. And he seems perfectly happy keeping it that way.

       

      Seth Stohs

      Byron Buxton came to the plate for Team USA in the bottom of the fourth inning. The bases were loaded. Team USA led 3-1 but had struggled with runners on base since Aaron Judge's first inning, two-run homer. It felt like a key moment in the game. 

      Gabriel Barbosa, a 24-year-old right-hander who pitched at three levels for the Phillies in 2025 came to the mound, having replaced Thyago Vieira who left with injury. Barbosa walked Roman Anthony to lead the bases. 

      Buxton came to the plate, and Barbosa got ahead quickly with two sharp sliders just off the outside corner. After Buxton took another slider and swung out of his shows at a hanging slider (foul ball), Barbosa came inside with a running fastball. It just kept running in on Buxton and when it hit him, you could hear an audible moan. 

      At first, it appeared he was hit in the hand, something that Twins fans certainly did not want to think about. We've seen that. Replay in slow motion showed that it hit him in the elbow, likely near the funny bone. 

      Buxton stayed in the game having driven in the team's fourth run "the tough way." The next batter was Brewers second baseman Brice Turang who cleared the bases with a double off of the wall in left field. The USA team led 7-1. 

      While it doesn't look serious, it only makes sense that manager Mark Derosa pulled Buxton and replaced him with Pete Crow-Armstrong. 

      Buxton came to the plate three times in four innings. He was 0-for-2. He was hit by a pitch, scored a run, drove in a run and stole a base. 

      UPDATE: A seventh inning Ken Rosenthal report tells us that Byron Buxton is just fine, taken out for precautionary purposes, but also because they wanted to get "PCA" some at bats too. 

       

      I enjoy the WBC. For many, it's about national pride, especially that is visible with the fans and players from the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Mexico. I want to see good baseball, and I want to hear about fun stories. Team Brazil had some that I enjoyed. 

      A couple of fun baseball stories from the Brazil team. After the USA team took a 2-0 lead to start the team, 20-year-old Lucas Ramirez led off the bottom of the first inning with a home run off of Logan Webb. In the bottom of the eighth, Ramirez came to the plate against left Gabe Speier and hit a lefty-lefty homer. Ramirez is the son of long-time big leaguer Manny Ramirez. The youngster was the 17th round pick of the Angels in the 2024 draft out of high school in Florida. He ended the 2025 season with 11 games above complex league ball. He also went 5-for-13 for Brazil in the WBC Qualifier last year. 

      Bloodlines are always fun. In the top of the second inning, Brazil turned to 17-year-old Joseph Contreras. He is the son of another long-time major leaguer, Jose Contreras. The son stands 6-4 and is a lanky 190 pounds. He is currently a high school senior at Blessed Trinity Catholic High School in Alpharetta, Georgia. Baseball America ranks him currently as the #15 high school pitcher available in the 2026 MLB Draft. He is committed to Vanderbilt.

      Beyond quality genetics, Joseph has some impressive stuff. His first pitch was a 97-mph fastball just above the zone that Byron Buxton swung through. He also has the makings of a really good low-to-mid-80s slider. He also throws a vulcan-gripped pitch that generally acts like a changeup but can move significantly too. He got Buxton to fly out. With the bases loaded and one out, he broke Aaron Judge's bat and coaxed a double play ball to end the inning. In total, he went 1 1/3 innings and gave up one run on two hits and three walks. So, the stat line isn't terribly impressive. But considering his age, experience level, and that he was pitching against Team USA's lineup as a United States citizen. What a cool, scary opportunity!  Also, I now want the Twins to draft him and team him with Charlee Soto and Dasan Hill in the 2031 Twins starting rotation. 

       

       

      From the Twins perspective, there were a couple of former Twins minor leaguers on the Brazilian roster. 35-year-old Leonardo Reginatto is completing his playing career with the WBC. He is set to join the Tampa Bay Rays player development staff. He signed with the Rays way back in 2009. His last season with an affiliated organization was back in 2018. That was his third season in the Twins organization. He spent most of 2016 with Chattanooga, He pitched for the Red Wings all three seasons. He has played winter ball in Mexico and Venezuela since then and most of his summer ball was played in Mexico. 

      Gabriel Maciel batted ninth and played in center field. You may remember that he came to the Twins from the Diamondbacks with Ernie de la Trinidad and Jhoan Duran in the Eduardo Escobar trade in 2018. He played in Fort Myers and Cedar Rapids between 2018 and 2021. He was 0-for-3 with three strikeouts in this game, but his speed and defense in center field keeps him in the lineup. He's played for Brazil in the 2016, 2022 and now 2026. 

      Team USA is going to play Great Britain on Saturday night. Twins fans will want to check out the lineup when it becomes available. 

      Seth Level of Concern right now:  2 on a scale of 1-10. (Subject to change)

      Steve Drumwright

       

      Just in time for a push before the trade deadline, Buck is back.

      The Minnesota Twins on Monday activated All-Star center fielder Byron Buxton from the 10-day injured list and optioned infielder Tristan Gray to Triple-A St. Paul.

      Buxton had been out since going on the IL July 7 with a strained right hip, the same ailment that kept him out for four games that week. Now, Buxton rejoins the Twins after being out for nearly two weeks and will be in the lineup Monday as Minnesota opens a big four-game series on the road against the Cleveland Guardians, who are in second place in the AL Central, just three games ahead of the Twins and one game behind the first-place Chicago White Sox.

      Buxton is slashing .271/.328/.575 with 25 homers, which ranks eighth in MLB, and 45 RBIs. Buxton, who has a lengthy injury history, hit a career-high 35 homers last year.

      Gray has been a valuable defensive piece on the infield, seeing quite a bit of time at shortstop, but has a slash line of just .232/.271/.333 with four homers and 29 RBIs. This likely opens the door for Ryan Kreidler to see a bulk of the time at shortstop and Brooks Lee backing him up.

       

      Cody Christie

      Minnesota Twins fans can officially stop refreshing trade rumor websites looking for Byron Buxton updates. On Tuesday, Twins general manager Jeremy Zoll delivered something front office executives rarely offer: a definitive answer.

      "We have no plans to trade Byron," Zoll said. "It's not something we're exploring. It's not something we plan to explore."

      That statement alone carries significant weight. Front offices are typically careful with their wording, especially as the trade deadline approaches. Executives often leave themselves flexibility, speaking in vague terms about listening on players or evaluating opportunities. Even when a team has little intention of moving a player, they rarely remove the possibility altogether.

      Zoll did exactly that. With the August 3 trade deadline approaching and Minnesota sitting in the middle of a crowded American League playoff race, recent speculation had connected Buxton's name to potential trade discussions. A national report from ESPN even suggested he could become the second best player traded if the Twins decided to pivot toward selling. Zoll's comments leave little room for interpretation.

      Buxton Has Been Carrying the Twins

      Part of the reason trade rumors gained traction is because Buxton's value has never been higher. Through 306 plate appearances, the Twins center fielder owns a .275/.333/.596 slash line with an American League-leading 25 home runs. When healthy, he's playing like one of the best players in baseball and has positioned himself squarely in the MVP conversation.

      Of course, health remains the lingering question. Durability has followed Buxton throughout his career, and it's impossible to discuss his value without acknowledging that reality. However, when he's on the field, few players impact a game the way he does.

      The Twins know that. Even though Minnesota sits four games below .500, they remain very much alive in both the AL Wild Card race and the AL Central. They're only two games out of a playoff spot and 3.5 games behind both Chicago and Cleveland in the division standings.

      Trading Buxton would signal a dramatically different organizational direction. Instead, Zoll made it clear the Twins aren't interested in taking that path.

      A Different Tone Than Last Year

      What's perhaps most interesting about Zoll's comments is how different they are from the organization's approach a year ago. Last summer, rumors circulated around several veteran players as Minnesota struggled to find consistency. While there was never any concrete indication that the Twins seriously considered moving Buxton, the organization never publicly dismissed the possibility either.

      That silence didn't go unnoticed. When Buxton arrived at spring training, he acknowledged some frustration with how the situation had been handled.

      "All it takes is for somebody at the top to go to the media, 'We're not trading you,'" Buxton said in February. "Trade rumors stop and now we don't have those conversations. That's how simple this could get."

      At the time, the comments stood out because Buxton rarely speaks publicly about front-office matters. While the situation clearly didn't damage the relationship between player and organization, it offered a glimpse into how unnecessary speculation can affect even veteran stars.

      Fast forward a few months and Zoll essentially provided the exact public backing Buxton had requested. Whether intentional or not, the message was received.

      Looking Beyond the Deadline

      The bigger story may not be whether Buxton gets traded, but whether the Twins eventually explore keeping him in Minnesota beyond his current contract.

      If both sides remain aligned, this offseason could present an opportunity to discuss an extension that allows Buxton to finish his career where it started. That's still speculative, but it's a far more realistic conversation than trade rumors at this point.

      For now, both the player and the organization are delivering the same message. Buxton said he isn't interested in leaving. The Twins say they aren't interested in moving him.

      Trade rumors may never completely disappear when a star player is involved, but Zoll's comments are about as close to a final answer as a front office executive can provide.

       

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have spent much of the season trying to keep Byron Buxton healthy while still allowing him to impact games in center field. On Friday night, that balancing act took another concerning turn.

      Buxton exited Minnesota’s game against the Kansas City Royals in the third inning after crashing into the center field wall while making a catch on a deep drive from Carter Jensen. The Twins later announced that Buxton suffered a right shoulder contusion.

      The play immediately drew concern at Target Field. Buxton raced back on Jensen’s drive, secured the out, and slammed into the wall at full speed. Although he remained in the game initially and stayed in center field for the next two outs, the situation quickly changed once he returned to the dugout.

      “I was concerned about it because he ran into it full speed, hard,” Twins manager Derek Shelton said. “He was shook up a little bit. When he came in, and he said he hit that shoulder, the same shoulder that he had the issue with — he wanted to hit, and I was like, ‘Nah, there's no chance if you’re feeling it in the same spot.’ "

      Head trainer Nick Paparesta spoke with Buxton after the collision, and the veteran center fielder initially believed he could continue playing. However, after remaining on the field for the rest of the inning, Buxton informed Shelton that the shoulder had taken the brunt of the impact.

      “He’s way too important to us to take an at-bat to try, so I just took it out of his hands and said no,” Shelton said.

      The injury is particularly concerning because it involves the same shoulder that recently limited Buxton's ability to play center field. He jammed his shoulder on a slide on May 23, affecting his throwing for roughly a week. Combined with a sore right hip flexor that forced him to miss five games in May, the Twins have been carefully managing his workload over the last several weeks.

      Buxton was playing center field for only the fourth time since May 13, entering Friday's game. Much of his recent playing time had come as the designated hitter while the Twins tried to keep his bat in the lineup without placing additional stress on his body.

      That bat has been one of the biggest reasons Minnesota remains in contention. Buxton entered Friday tied for fourth in Major League Baseball with 18 home runs and had homered against Kansas City on Thursday night. He has appeared in 55 of the Twins' first 65 games, an encouraging total for a player whose availability has often been one of the club's biggest questions.

      Unfortunately, Friday's collision created another health concern at a time when the Twins can least afford to lose him. Shelton said it’s unlikely Buxton will be in Saturday’s lineup because the first pitch was about 13 hours after last night’s game ended.

      The Twins should have a clearer picture of Buxton's status over the next couple of days, but Friday served as another reminder of both his value and the fine line Minnesota must walk in keeping one of baseball's most dynamic players on the field.

       

      Matthew Lenz

      Byron Buxton, in the midst of an MVP caliber season, has also been having the healthiest year of his career.

      While we don't know a lot of information at this time, the Twins.TV broadcast reported that Buxton exited Saturday's game in the top of the seventh inning with soreness in his left side. Trevor Larnach replaced Buxton, which in turn shifted Willi Castro to left field and Harrison Bader to center field. There didn't seem to be any specific play that led to Buxton being pulled from the game. One silver lining is that it doesn't sound like it's a lower body injury, which has plagued Buxton for a majority of his career.

      Buxton has been on a tear this year with an OPS of .951, including 23 home runs. He's added 17 stolen bases and continues to contribute platinum glove level defense. If he were to miss time, it would almost certainly force the Twins hand to sell their expiring contracts - something that has been rumored but to this point there's been just one report indicating a team is interested in one of those players.

      Stay tuned to Twins Daily for updates on Buxton's status.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have been searching for consistency in the early part of the season, and over the past week, Byron Buxton provided exactly that. When he is healthy and locked in, there are few players in baseball who can impact a game in as many ways, and this latest stretch served as a reminder of his game-changing ability on both sides of the ball.

      Buxton put together one of the most productive weeks of his career, appearing in seven games and collecting 10 hits in 29 at-bats for a .345 average. His power was on full display as he launched five home runs, added a double, and swiped two bases. He also crossed the plate six times and drove in seven runs, serving as the catalyst for Minnesota’s offense throughout the week. Notably, he homered in five of those seven games, including a streak of three consecutive contests, marking the sixth time in his career he has accomplished that feat.

      This recognition marks the third time in Buxton’s 12-year career that he has earned American League Player of the Week honors. His previous awards came on August 26, 2017, and June 11, 2022. It also represents a milestone for the Twins lineup, as Buxton becomes the first Minnesota hitter to take home the award since Luke Keaschall did so on August 9 of last season.

      With this latest honor, Buxton continues to climb into elite territory within franchise history. He is now one of six players in Twins history to win the award at least three times while with the organization. That group includes Kent Hrbek, Joe Mauer, Kirby Puckett, Rod Carew, and Johan Santana, a collection of names that highlights just how impactful Buxton has been when at his best.

       

      Buxton got off to a slow start at the plate to begin the season, and some have pointed to his limited action in the World Baseball Classic after being hit by a pitch as a contributing factor. Through his first eight games, he went just 4-for-30 (.133) with 10 strikeouts. Since then, the turnaround has been significant. Over his next 24 games, he has posted a .288/.351/.615 (.966) slash line with 10 home runs and four doubles, a stretch that looks much more like the All-Star level production the Twins have come to expect.

      If this stretch is any indication of what Buxton can provide moving forward, the Twins lineup may have found the spark it needs. His combination of power, speed, and defensive excellence makes him one of the most dynamic players in the game, and when he is producing at this level, Minnesota looks like a much more dangerous team.

      Cody Christie

      Byron Buxton’s 2025 resurgence continues to pay dividends, and this time, the spotlight is coming from the international stage. According to reporter Francys Romero, Buxton has been included on Team USA’s preliminary roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. While preliminary rosters are not final, this early nod signals how dramatically his status has shifted in the eyes of evaluators across baseball.

      The 2026 World Baseball Classic is scheduled for March 5 through March 17 and will feature 20 teams competing across four host cities. Pool play will take place in Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo. After that, quarterfinals will be split between Miami and Houston before the tournament returns to Miami for the semifinals and championship round. It will be the sixth edition of the tournament, and Japan will enter as the defending champions after winning the 2023 event.

      For Buxton and the Twins, the timing of this recognition could not be better. It was not long ago that the idea of Buxton participating in the WBC would have been dismissed immediately. During the previous edition of the tournament the Twins were protective of their star center fielder as he worked to prepare his body for the upcoming season. The focus then was strictly on building the foundation for a healthy year rather than adding competitive innings in March.

      Everything changed last year. Buxton delivered the most complete season of his career, rewriting personal bests across the board and reminding fans of the superstar talent he brings when healthy. He set career highs in home runs with 35, runs batted in with 83, and runs scored with 97. He also reached new marks in walks, plate appearances, and at bats while surpassing 120 games played for only the second time in his eleven major league seasons. His .264 batting average, .327 on base percentage, and .551 slugging percentage added up to an impressive .878 OPS and a 136 OPS plus. The season culminated with his first career Silver Slugger Award and a renewed belief that he could still elevate his game even further.

      That level of production combined with his elite athleticism makes Buxton an enticing fit for Team USA’s roster construction. More importantly for Minnesota, his inclusion on the preliminary list suggests that other evaluators share the Twins confidence in his health and long term outlook. Participating in the WBC would give Buxton a chance to showcase his abilities on one of the sport’s biggest stages while entering the regular season with competitive momentum.

      While the final Team USA roster will not be set for some time, Buxton’s presence on the early list stands as another milestone in his return to form. For the Twins, it is the latest reminder of how valuable a fully operational Buxton can be.

      Cody Christie

      Every time Byron Buxton steps onto one of baseball's biggest stages, the questions inevitably follow. The Twins' franchise cornerstone drew national attention again this week after earning a starting spot in the All-Star Game, prompting another round of speculation about whether a player of his caliber could eventually end up elsewhere.

      Those conversations aren't new, and they likely won't disappear anytime soon. A healthy, productive Buxton is the type of impact player every contender covets. But while the outside noise continues, Buxton has remained remarkably consistent about where he wants his future to unfold.

      For him, Minnesota isn't simply the place where he plays baseball. It's home.

      “I have that peace of mind,” Buxton told the Minnesota Star Tribune. “My family, Minnesota is home for us. That’s where we want to be. That’s where they want to be. And that’s something that is not going to change. We done built our family up, two more kids now from Minnesota since I’ve been here. This is all they know, too.”

      Buxton's connection to the organization extends well beyond his contract. Drafted second overall by the Twins in 2012, he's spent his entire professional career wearing a Minnesota uniform. Through injuries, playoff appearances, individual accolades, and organizational transitions, he's remained the face of the franchise.

      That longevity is something Buxton has come to value even more as his career has progressed. Early in his career, he watched Joe Mauer spend an entire Hall of Fame-caliber career with one organization. More recently, during this spring's World Baseball Classic, Buxton found himself asking another lifelong franchise icon about what that experience has meant.

      The conversation came with future Hall of Fame pitcher Clayton Kershaw, who has spent his entire career with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

      “I was like, ‘Dang, bro, the only thing you know is blue and white, ain’t it?’” Buxton said. “He was like, ‘Love it.’ Just to see his reaction, though, I was like, ‘That’s going to be me.’

      “We’re blessed already to be able to play baseball, but to be able to do it with one team, and make your legacy there, that’s what makes it special. It’s somewhere you can always call home no matter what.”

      In today's game, careers with a single franchise have become increasingly rare. Free agency, trades, and shifting competitive windows make it difficult for players to stay in one place from debut to retirement. Buxton understands that reality, which is why the opportunity to build a lasting legacy in Minnesota means so much to him.

      It's also one of the reasons events like the All-Star Game carry added significance. Buxton isn't just representing himself on baseball's national stage. He's representing the organization and fan base that have supported him throughout his career.

      “That’s why you want to do those things,” Buxton said. “Putting on that Twins jersey, going out there in front of all those people and representing Minnesota, that’s special.”

      The speculation will likely continue whenever Buxton is healthy enough to remind the baseball world just how dynamic he can be. Elite center field defense, game-changing speed, and middle-of-the-order power make him one of the sport's most unique players.

      But while others continue imagining him in another uniform, Buxton has never sounded interested in the possibility.

      His focus remains on adding to his legacy with the only organization he's ever known, in the state his family now calls home. For a player who has experienced nearly every high and low imaginable in a Twins uniform, that commitment has never appeared stronger.

      Cody Christie

      The race to determine the starters for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game is entering its final stretch, and Byron Buxton is putting himself in position for a memorable milestone.

      The first phase of fan voting opened on June 3 and will conclude on Thursday, June 25, at 11 AM CT. During this opening phase, fans can vote for the starting lineup in each league, selecting eight position players and one designated hitter. Ballots are available through MLB.com, all 30 club websites, the MLB app, and the MLB Ballpark app. Fans can vote up to five times every 24 hours.

      When Phase 1 concludes, MLB Network will reveal the top vote-getters at every position. The leading vote-getter in each league automatically earns a starting spot, while the remaining finalists advance to Phase 2, where fans determine the rest of the starting lineup.

      Buxton Climbs Into Prime Position

      The latest voting update released Monday brought encouraging news for Twins fans. Buxton moved into third place among American League outfielders with 1,106,264 votes.

      American League Outfield Voting Leaders (June 22 Update)

      1. Aaron Judge, Yankees — 1,788,499
      2. Mike Trout, Angels — 1,735,051
      3. Byron Buxton, Twins — 1,106,264
      4. Cody Bellinger, Yankees — 1,067,622
      5. Julio Rodríguez, Mariners — 819,514
      6. Randy Arozarena, Mariners — 793,017
      7. Daulton Varsho, Blue Jays — 782,016
      8. Jesús Sánchez, Blue Jays — 764,037
      9. Riley Greene, Tigers — 751,512

      Buxton's rise is notable because he sat fourth among American League outfielders in the previous update. A dominant stretch over the last few weeks has helped him leapfrog Cody Bellinger and move firmly into position to advance to Phase 2 voting.

      His performance has backed up the support. Buxton enters the week ranked second in the American League with 24 home runs and third in slugging percentage at .591. After years of battling injuries, he has remained on the field and produced at an elite level, giving Twins fans a compelling case to rally behind during the final days of voting.

      Injuries Could Change the Picture

      The voting leaderboard may not tell the entire story. Judge currently leads all American League outfielders, but he is expected to miss the All-Star Game after suffering a rib stress fracture. Judge's absence would leave one of the outfield starting spots open regardless of where he finishes in the voting process.

      Meanwhile, Trout's status has become less certain after he landed on the injured list last week with a right hamstring strain. Trout remains second in the voting, but his availability for the Midsummer Classic is now unclear.

      If both stars are unable to participate, Buxton's chances of earning a starting assignment improve significantly. Even if Judge and Trout remain among the leading vote-getters, MLB would need replacements should either player be unavailable.

      Final Week Push Ahead

      Minnesota has not had many realistic candidates for fan-elected starting spots in recent seasons, but Buxton has changed that narrative in 2026. His combination of power, highlight-reel defense, and durability (knock on wood) has made him one of the American League's most valuable players through the season's first half.

      The final days of Phase 1 voting will determine whether he advances comfortably to the next round, but his recent climb up the leaderboard shows that fans across baseball are taking notice. For a player who has spent much of his career battling injuries and unrealized All-Star potential, Buxton is now closer than ever to hearing his name announced as an All-Star Game starter.

      Cody Christie

      There are plenty of moments that define a player’s tenure with the Minnesota Twins, but for Carlos Correa, one of the most impactful experiences happened away from the field. In a recent conversation with MLB.com reporter Brian McTaggart, Correa shared details of a terrifying moment on Lake Minnetonka that nearly cost him and his young son their lives.

      The incident occurred in mid-July, while Correa was out on the water with family. At one point, he and his three-year-old son Kylo found themselves separated from their boat and struggling to stay afloat. Without a life jacket and with his son clinging to his back, Correa quickly realized the situation was more dangerous than it first appeared.

      As he fought to keep them both above water, severe cramping set in throughout his legs. The physical toll made it increasingly difficult to stay afloat, forcing Correa to search for anything nearby that could provide support. Eventually, he reached a buoy, but even that proved challenging. After initially losing his grip and slipping beneath the surface, Correa injured his left hand while grabbing onto the chain.

      With limited strength and fading energy, he alternated hands to maintain his hold while keeping his son secure. It was a desperate effort just to buy time. Correa was eventually able to call out for help, catching the attention of his father-in-law near the boat. He swam over and delivered a life jacket, bringing a frightening situation under control before it turned tragic.

      Looking back, Correa credited his faith for helping him endure the ordeal, describing it as a moment that tested both his body and mindset. The timing only adds another layer to the story. Correa indicated the scare occurred around the All-Star break, and within a couple of weeks, his time in Minnesota came to an abrupt end.

      The Twins moved on from Correa at the trade deadline in what amounted to a financial decision. The return was minimal, Matt Mikulski, a minor league player who did not factor into the organization’s long-term plans and was eventually released after the 2025 season.

      Correa’s tenure with Minnesota still carried significance. After signing one of the largest contracts in franchise history prior to the 2023 season, he provided stability at shortstop and delivered consistent production. Across three and a half seasons, he posted a 118 OPS+ with 61 home runs and earned an All-Star selection during his time in Minnesota. He also played a key role in the 2023 club that finally snapped the franchise’s lengthy postseason drought, helping the Twins secure their first playoff series victory in more than two decades.

      However, the momentum did not carry over. A reduction in payroll the following offseason limited the team’s ability to build on that success, and Minnesota was unable to return to the playoffs before ultimately parting ways with its star shortstop.

      After returning to the Houston Astros, where his career originally began, Correa found another gear at the plate. He combined for a 117 OPS+ over 51 games down the stretch, a noticeable jump from his .94 OPS+ in 93 games with Minnesota earlier in the 2025 season.

      In the end, Correa’s departure will be remembered for what it meant on the field and in the front office. But his story now carries something deeper. Before the trade, before the roster decisions, there was a moment on a Minnesota lake that nearly changed everything.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins finally welcomed Cole Sands back from the injured list over the weekend, hoping the right-hander could stabilize a bullpen that has searched for reliable late-inning options all season. Instead, his return lasted just one appearance.

      Before Tuesday's game, the Twins placed Sands back on the 15-day injured list with a right elbow strain and recalled right-hander Jack Anderson from Triple-A St. Paul to take his place on the active roster. The move comes just days after Sands completed a lengthy rehabilitation process that had already been interrupted once by another setback.

      Another Setback for Sands

      Sands had been sidelined since early May with a right forearm strain. Minnesota originally believed the injury would keep him out for only a short period, and he was cleared to begin a rehab assignment in early June. Those plans quickly unraveled. Inflammation returned during the rehab process, forcing the Twins to shut him down and restart his recovery from scratch. After weeks of waiting, Sands finally made it back to the major league bullpen this weekend.

      His return could not have gone much worse. Sands recorded just one out while allowing five earned runs, finishing with a -0.14 Win Probability Added (WPA). While the Twins had built enough of a lead to survive against the Athletics, it was evident that something wasn't right.

      Now, the club has its answer. Instead of building momentum after months of rehab, Sands is back on the injured list with an elbow strain, creating even more uncertainty around his future.

      Anderson Gets Another Opportunity

      To replace Sands, the Twins recalled Jack Anderson, who has quietly impressed in his first taste of the majors with Minnesota. After being claimed off waivers from the Boston Red Sox, Anderson has appeared in three games for the Twins. Across 3 1/3 scoreless innings, he has allowed just one hit while striking out four and walking one.

      His previous major league experience came with Boston earlier this season, where he logged eight innings over three appearances. Anderson allowed three earned runs on eight hits while recording six strikeouts and only two walks. Although the sample size remains small, it was enough for Minnesota to see something worth developing.

      His numbers at Triple-A Worcester were less dominant. Anderson posted a 4.57 ERA while striking out 20.0% of opposing hitters and walking 8.1% before the Twins claimed him.

      A Tough Blow for Minnesota's Bullpen

      Few relievers seemed more likely to impact Minnesota's postseason push than Sands. After establishing himself as one of the Twins' most dependable bullpen arms over the past two seasons, the expectation was that he would eventually return to reclaim a meaningful role in the late innings. Instead, injuries have limited him to just 13 appearances, and his long-awaited return ended almost as quickly as it began.

      Now, with an elbow strain sending him back to the injured list, the outlook becomes much more concerning. Depending on the severity of the injury, Sands may have already thrown his final pitch of the 2026 season.

      Steve Drumwright

       

      The Minnesota Twins have lost one of their bullpen stalwarts to an injury.

      Right-hander Cole Sands was put on the 15-day injured list by the Twins on Saturday due to a strained right forearm. Right-hander John Klein was called up from Triple-A St. Paul to make his MLB debut.

      We have made the following roster moves:

      [image or embed]

      — Minnesota Twins (@twinsbaseball.bsky.social) May 2, 2026 at 8:00 AM

      Sands made 131 appearances out of the Twins' bullpen the last two seasons and had made 12 in 2026. In 11⅔ innings, he had a 4.63 ERA with six runs on 12 hits with four walks and 11 strikeouts. He last appeared in a game Tuesday against the Seattle Mariners, giving up two runs on three hits, including a homer, in two-thirds of an inning. He came on with one on and one out in the eighth and gave up a double to Julio Rodriguez and a three-run homer to Josh Naylor, turning a 2-1 Twins deficit into a 5-1 disadvantage.

      Klein had made seven appearances, six starts, at St. Paul this year. He had a 7.48 ERA in 21⅔ innings, walking six and striking out 24. Klein signed as an undrafted free agent in 2022.

       

      Cody Christie

      The Twins have spent much of the season trying to patch together their bullpen without one of their most dependable relievers. Right-hander Cole Sands has been sidelined since early May with a right forearm strain, but after navigating a frustrating rehab process that included an unexpected setback, he appears to be trending in the right direction.

      Minnesota placed Sands on the 15-day injured list on May 2 after forearm discomfort forced him out of action. The organization originally hoped he would return relatively quickly, and he was cleared to begin a rehab assignment in early June. Those plans were delayed when inflammation resurfaced, forcing the Twins to shut him down and allow the injury to calm before restarting the process.

      After completing another throwing progression, Sands resumed his rehab assignment and immediately showed encouraging signs. During one of his recent appearances, his fastball averaged 93.7 mph, a noticeable improvement from where it had been earlier this season and an indication that his arm strength is continuing to return.

      His latest outing may have been his most encouraging yet. Pitching for Triple-A St. Paul on Saturday, Sands tossed a scoreless inning while once again seeing all of his pitch velocities climb above his season averages. It marked the second consecutive rehab appearance in which his velocity ticked upward, another positive indicator that he is getting closer to full strength.

      Even with the improved results, the Twins aren't quite ready to activate him. Saturday's outing came four days after his previous appearance, and Minnesota wants to see how Sands responds to a more typical major league workload before bringing him back. That likely means pitching on shorter rest, with back-to-back appearances a possibility, before the club is convinced he can handle the demands of a late-inning role.

      Before the injury, Sands wasn't producing at the level Twins fans had become accustomed to seeing. Over 11 2/3 innings this season, he owns a 4.63 ERA with a 22% strikeout rate and an eight percent walk rate. Opposing hitters have also produced a hefty 51.4% hard-hit rate against him.

      One of the biggest differences has been his fastball. Sands averaged 95 mph during the 2025 season, but that figure dropped to 93.1 mph before landing on the injured list. Even so, there were signs that better results could have been on the horizon. His 3.65 SIERA sits nearly a full run lower than his actual ERA, suggesting his underlying performance was stronger than the surface numbers indicate. It's also fair to wonder whether his forearm issue contributed to his rough final outing on April 28 against Seattle, when he surrendered two runs while recording just two outs.

      Despite his uneven start to 2026, Sands has earned the benefit of the doubt. Since the beginning of the 2024 season, he has developed into one of Minnesota's most dependable relievers, regularly taking on high-leverage innings while providing valuable multi-inning flexibility.

      The Twins have managed to survive his absence by leaning on relievers such as Yoendrys Gomez, Andrew Morris, and Anthony Banda before Banda's season-ending injury further thinned the bullpen. While several pitchers have stepped into larger roles, adding an experienced arm like Sands would give manager Derek Shelton another trusted option for the stretch run.

      If Sands continues checking the remaining boxes during his rehab assignment, his return may not be far away. A healthy version of the right-hander could help stabilize a relief corps that has spent much of the season searching for consistency. With velocity returning and his workload gradually increasing, the Twins finally have reason to believe one of their most reliable relievers is nearing his return.

      Cody Christie

      The Twins received discouraging news this week when right-hander Cole Sands was pulled off his rehab assignment after experiencing continued issues with his strained right forearm.

      Sands made his first rehab appearance with Triple-A St. Paul on Tuesday, and the outing appeared to be a positive first step toward rejoining Minnesota's bullpen. In one inning, he didn’t allow any hits and struck out one batter on 13 pitches. He had two swinging strikes and three strikes looking. 

      However, his arm did not recover quickly enough afterward to allow him to continue pitching. As a result, the Twins have shut down the rehab assignment and will give him additional time to rest and receive treatment before restarting a throwing program.

      At this point, there is no clear timeline for when Sands could return to the major league roster. Under league rules, the Twins must wait at least a week before he can begin another rehab assignment. Even then, the organization will likely proceed cautiously given the nature of the injury.

      While Sands' traditional numbers do not jump off the page, his absence has been felt. The right-hander owns a 4.63 ERA across 11 2/3 innings this season, but the underlying metrics suggest he was performing better than the results indicated. He maintained a strong strikeout rate and carried a 3.65 SIERA, pointing toward a pitcher whose effectiveness was better than his ERA suggested.

      Looking back, there may have been warning signs before Sands landed on the injured list. His final appearance came against Seattle on April 28 when he surrendered two runs in an outing that lacked the crispness typically seen from him. The quality of his stuff appeared diminished, and the radar gun provided additional evidence that something was wrong.

      Velocity declines are often one of the first indicators of a physical issue. After averaging roughly 95 mph on his fastball during the 2025 season, Sands sat closer to 93.1 mph this year before being sidelined. When forearm discomfort accompanies a noticeable drop in velocity, teams naturally become cautious. That reality makes every step forward in his recovery process meaningful, even if those steps are currently smaller than the Twins had hoped.

      Sands entered the season expected to be a significant contributor in Minnesota's late-inning mix. Few relievers on the roster possess his combination of experience and ability to handle leverage situations. Although his early-season results were inconsistent, the Twins viewed him as an important piece of a bullpen that has spent much of the year searching for consistency.

      Minnesota's relief corps has been in near-constant flux throughout the season as injuries and performance fluctuations have forced the club to shuffle roles. The Twins have received strong contributions from several relievers like Yoendrys Gomez and Anthony Banda, but the group still lacks the stability that teams need over the course of 162-games. 

      Getting Sands healthy remains one of the organization's priorities because his return would provide another trusted arm capable of handling meaningful innings. Until then, the Twins will continue looking for answers while hoping one of their most important bullpen reinforcements can eventually make his way back to Target Field.

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