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      Cody Christie

      When the MLB All-Star Game rolls around each summer, it serves as more than just a midseason showcase of the game’s brightest stars. It is also a reflection of the people shaping the sport behind the scenes. This year, the Minnesota Twins will have representation in the dugout as well, with manager Derek Shelton earning a spot on the American League coaching staff.

      Shelton has been tapped to join the American League staff for the 2026 All-Star Game in Philadelphia, a role extended by John Schneider, who will lead the AL squad after guiding the Toronto Blue Jays to the AL pennant. While All-Star managers typically lean on their own coaching staff, they are also given the opportunity to bring in an outside voice. Schneider’s choice of Shelton speaks volumes.

      The connection between the two goes back nearly a decade. In 2017, Shelton was working in a quality control role within Toronto’s system, while Schneider was managing at the High-A level. Their paths crossed early, and the respect built during that time clearly stuck. That relationship resurfaced this spring when Schneider reached out personally to invite Shelton to join him for the Midsummer Classic.

      This will not be Shelton’s first experience on an All-Star staff. Back in 2023, he was managing the Pittsburgh Pirates when Philadelphia’s Rob Thomson selected him to be part of the National League staff. That opportunity came during a difficult stretch in Pittsburgh, but it underscored how Shelton was viewed across the league. Even as the results lagged, his peers recognized his baseball acumen and leadership.

      That reputation has carried over to his current role in Minnesota. Early in the 2026 season, the Twins have looked like a club with direction and energy. Whether it is lineup construction, bullpen usage, or simply the tone set in the clubhouse, Shelton has helped guide a team that is outperforming expectations. Managers rarely get full credit when things go right, but they are often first in line when things go wrong. In this case, Shelton deserves acknowledgment for helping steady the ship.

      The All-Star Game coaching nod is not about one hot stretch or a handful of wins in April. It is about trust, relationships, and respect built over years in the game. Being chosen twice by two different managers in separate leagues reinforces that Shelton is valued well beyond his own clubhouse.

      As the All-Star break approaches, Shelton will step onto one of baseball’s biggest stages once again. This time, he does so representing a Twins team that is attempting to build something meaningful. It may only be a few days in July, but it is another sign that Minnesota’s manager is earning his place among the game’s most respected voices.

      For a franchise looking to turn the page and establish consistency, that is exactly the kind of recognition that matters.

       

      Cody Christie

      Fresh off what has arguably been the most successful World Baseball Classic to date, Rob Manfred is already looking at ways to adjust the event’s future. That instinct is understandable given the tournament’s rapid growth, but it also raises a familiar question. Why fix something that is clearly working?

      Appearing on The Dan Patrick Show to discuss the beginning of the 2026 MLB season, Manfred was asked whether the WBC could become a more frequent event. His answer made it clear that Major League Baseball is seriously considering changes to the tournament’s cadence.

      “We’re gonna have a meeting on the WBC, which we always do after it is completed. I think the event was so successful this time that we need to talk about frequency, regularity of schedule,” Manfred said. “It’s one thing to not to do it every year, our problem because of COVID, labor negotiations, whatever, you can’t even say it’s every four years. It hasn’t been. Given how popular it is, we need to get into a regular rotation.”

      The desire for consistency is not unreasonable. Since its debut in 2006, the World Baseball Classic has never truly settled into a rhythm. It began on a three-year cycle before shifting to four years, only to see that plan disrupted by a six-year gap following 2017 due to the pandemic. When the tournament finally returned in 2023, it delivered one of the most iconic moments with a Japan versus the United States championship for the ages. That game alone proved the event had evolved far beyond exhibition status.

      By the time the 2026 tournament wrapped up, the momentum had only grown. Television ratings climbed, global interest surged, and the overall product felt bigger than ever. Fans were invested, players were all in, and the atmosphere carried a level of intensity that even October baseball sometimes struggles to match.

      That is exactly why Major League Baseball should proceed with caution. Manfred is correct in identifying the need for a clear and predictable schedule. A defined rotation benefits fans trying to plan around the event and gives broadcast partners something concrete to build around in future media negotiations. It is difficult to maximize value when networks are unsure when the next tournament will take place.

      However, consistency does not have to mean increased frequency. There has already been discussion of experimenting with more dramatic changes, including moving the WBC to the middle of the MLB season. That concept feels misguided. Players already balance a demanding 162-game schedule, and the mid-summer break serves a purpose. Asking them to replace rest with high-intensity international competition risks diminishing participation, which is the lifeblood of the tournament.

      Even a small adjustment, such as shifting to a two-year cycle, could have unintended consequences. Part of what makes the World Baseball Classic special is its rarity. When players know the opportunity only comes around every few years, the urgency is real. National pride carries more weight. The stakes feel higher. If the event becomes more frequent, that edge could soften.

      The World Baseball Classic absolutely needs structure. The past two decades have proven that a floating timeline creates confusion and limits its long-term growth. But structure does not require reinvention.

      Baseball finally has something that captures global attention in a meaningful way. The solution is not to tinker with its foundation, but to solidify it.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have not exactly been operating from a position of fan favor in recent years, but they took a step in the right direction following a frustrating start to the season at Target Field.

      After a power outage delayed the home opener against the Tampa Bay Rays by roughly an hour, the organization chose to compensate fans who attended by offering free tickets to the team’s game on Friday, April 17, against the Cincinnati Reds. The game will include pregame happy hour deals and fireworks following the game.

      The Twins opted for a gesture that at least acknowledges the importance of their paying customers. That does not erase the lingering frustration tied to ownership decisions, particularly after payroll reductions following the 2023 season. The Pohlad family has drawn consistent criticism, and one goodwill move does not suddenly reset that relationship. Still, credit is warranted here. This situation was beyond their control, yet they chose to respond in a way that directly benefits fans.

      Leading into Opening Day, Tom Pohlad addressed the broader picture of fan engagement. “We can sell all the $2 beers we want. We can have all the concepts we want, but people want to see a winner, and I think the product we put on the field is ultimately what's going to drive, hope, if you will.”

      It is a fair statement, and it is also where the disconnect continues to live. Acknowledging that winning matters most is easy. Investing in a roster that reflects that urgency is something else entirely. The additions of Josh Bell and Victor Caratini provide depth and professionalism, but they are complementary pieces rather than franchise-altering talents. For a team trying to reenergize its fan base, that distinction matters.

      Yes, the Twins recently put together an impressive sweep against the Detroit Tigers, and any winning streak is worth appreciating. But short bursts of success do not carry the same weight as a clear long-term vision. Fans have seen hot streaks before, including last season’s extended run, and understand how quickly momentum can fade.

      Discounted concessions and makeup tickets help. They create a better ballpark experience in the moment. But sustained interest comes from belief in the team's direction.

      The Twins did the right thing last week. They deserve recognition for that. Now comes the harder part. Turning a small gesture into meaningful change is what will ultimately determine how this fan base responds moving forward.

      Cody Christie

      There are growing pains that come with any new technology, and Major League Baseball’s Automated Ball Strike challenge system is no exception. On Thursday, the Minnesota Twins found themselves in the middle of one of the most talked-about moments yet in the early days of ABS, a call so close that it is now fueling debate across the sport about what the strike zone should actually be.

      In the bottom of the second inning, Royce Lewis stepped to the plate against Jack Flaherty with a runner on first base. The count moved to 3-1, and Flaherty delivered an 91.3 mph fastball that was ruled a ball by the home plate umpire. Lewis began his routine jog to first base, shedding his gear as if the walk was already secured.

      Detroit catcher Jake Rogers tapped his helmet, signaling for a review. Within seconds, the Hawk Eye system took over and delivered its verdict. The call was overturned. Strike two.

      Not just a strike, but the closest confirmed strike yet under the system, according to Codify Baseball. Hawk Eye showed that the tiniest sliver of the baseball clipped the strike zone, enough to flip the call and send Lewis back into the box. Instead of standing on first base, Lewis was suddenly in a 3-2 count, and Flaherty finished the at-bat with another fastball that Lewis swung through for strike three.

      It is exactly the type of moment ABS was designed to handle, but it is also the type of moment that exposes how different a rulebook strike zone can feel compared to the one players and fans have grown used to seeing.

      The debate picked up quickly. MLB analyst Ryan M. Spaeder voiced frustration with how the system currently interprets the zone. He suggested a 50-50 rule, where at least half the baseball must cross into the strike zone to be called a strike. His argument centered on the idea that the current system effectively expands the zone beyond its traditional 17-inch width. When accounting for the baseball's full diameter, Spaeder argued, the zone can be closer to 22.8 inches wide.

      That interpretation has raised eyebrows, especially for hitters who now must account for pitches that barely graze the edge rather than clearly enter the zone. From a hitter’s perspective, the difference between a ball and a strike has never been thinner, literally.

      Still, not everyone sees a problem. There is a strong contingent across the league that believes this is exactly what ABS is meant to accomplish. For pitchers, a pitch that clips the zone is a perfect pitch, and the system rewards that precision without bias or inconsistency. In a sport that has long struggled with inconsistent strike zones from umpire to umpire, ABS offers a level of consistency previously unattainable.

      Royals reliever Matt Strahm even pushed back on Spaeder’s idea publicly, noting that if baseball is going to start redefining what counts as a strike based on partial entry, then the same logic would need to apply elsewhere. He suggests that the foul line/pole shouldn’t be fair then.  

      For the Twins, the moment was more frustrating than philosophical. What looked like a routine walk turned into a strikeout, and a potential scoring opportunity disappeared just as quickly as it appeared. It is the kind of swing that can change an inning, or even a game, and it underscores how impactful the challenge system can be in high-leverage spots.

      At the same time, it is hard to argue that the system got the call wrong. By definition, it got it exactly right.

      That is where the tension lies as baseball continues to adapt. The ABS system is doing what it was designed to do, but it is also forcing players, analysts, and fans to reconsider what they expect the strike zone to look like. The human element has not disappeared, but it is now being checked by a level of precision that leaves little room for interpretation.

      Moments like this one involving Lewis are likely to keep popping up as the season unfolds. Each will add another layer to the conversation about fairness and consistency.

      For now, the early returns suggest that while there may be flaws to iron out, the overall reception to ABS has been positive. Players are adjusting, fans are learning, and the league is gathering valuable feedback in real time. The strike zone may not look the way it used to, but it has never been more exact.

      Cody Christie

      Major League Baseball released its annual snapshot of Opening Day demographics this week, and while the numbers still point to a long road ahead, there are signs of meaningful progress. After dipping to a historic low in 2024, the percentage of African American players across the league has now risen in consecutive seasons, something the sport has not seen in roughly two decades.

      This year, African American players make up 6.5% of Opening Day rosters and injured lists, a noticeable increase from 5.7% the year prior and slightly above the 6.0% mark from two seasons ago. It is not a dramatic jump, but it is a step in the right direction for a league that has been searching for ways to rebuild its connection with Black communities.

      Development Programs Beginning to Show Results

      League officials have pointed to their investment in youth initiatives as a key factor behind the recent uptick. Programs such as MLB’s youth academies, the Dream Series, and the Breakthrough Series are starting to produce big-league talent. Of the 62 African American players on Opening Day rosters, 20 have participated in one of those pipelines.

      There is also a growing presence of high-end talent within that group. Nine of those players were former first-round picks, suggesting that the league is not only increasing participation but also developing impact players.

      The age distribution offers additional optimism. More than half of the current group is 27 or younger, while only a small handful are on the back side of their careers. That youth movement could help sustain growth if development systems continue to feed the pipeline.

      Twins Among League Leaders

      While the league-wide numbers are trending upward, the distribution across teams remains uneven. Six organizations began the season without a single African American player, highlighting how inconsistent representation still is from roster to roster.

      That is where the Minnesota Twins stand out. Minnesota enters the season with six African American players, tying them for the highest total in baseball alongside the Cincinnati Reds.  For a smaller-market club, that level of representation is significant, especially when considering that the Twins alone account for a sizable portion of the league’s overall total.

      The group is not just filling out the roster either. It includes key contributors on both sides of the ball, including starting pitchers Taj Bradley and Simeon Woods Richardson, along with Byron Buxton and Josh Bell on the offensive side. Having that presence in prominent roles matters, both in terms of visibility and impact.

      At a time when more than a third of the league has one or zero African American players, the Twins are providing a blueprint for what a more inclusive roster can look like.

      Areas Where the Game Still Lags

      Despite the positive momentum, representation remains limited in some areas. Certain positions continue to lack diversity, particularly behind the plate and on the mound.

      There are only a small number of African American pitchers across the league, a striking reality given the size of pitching staffs. Catcher is another position where representation has been historically low, making each breakthrough at that spot even more meaningful.

      Additionally, more than a third of MLB teams have one or fewer African American players, including several high-profile organizations. That imbalance underscores the importance of continued investment in grassroots development and access to the sport.

      A Path Forward

      The broader picture shows a sport attempting to reverse a decades-long decline. International participation continues to grow, and MLB remains a global game, but rebuilding domestic diversity is clearly a priority.

      For the Twins, this moment reflects both organizational success and an opportunity. Their roster composition places them among the league leaders in representation, aligning with MLB’s broader efforts to create more inclusive pathways to the majors.

      Progress is happening, even if it is gradual. And for a franchise like Minnesota, being at the forefront of that movement is something worth recognizing as the game continues to evolve.

       

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins community is mourning the loss of a member of its 1987 championship club. Tom Nieto has passed away at the age of 65 after suffering a heart attack, according to a message shared by his family and later confirmed by the organization on Monday.

      Nieto’s sister shared the news publicly, noting that he passed on March 27 while in Florida with his family. She described a man whose strength and resilience left a lasting impact on those closest to him, a sentiment that has echoed throughout the baseball world since the announcement.

      The Twins also released a statement shortly after the news became public.

       

      Nieto’s baseball journey began when the Twins selected him in the 31st round of the 1979 MLB Draft. Instead of signing, he chose to continue his development at the collegiate level, eventually going to Oral Roberts before being selected in the third round of the 1981 MLB Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals.

      A highly regarded prospect in the Cardinals system, Nieto worked his way through the minors before making his big league debut in 1984. He made an immediate impression during his rookie campaign, posting a 109 OPS+ across 33 games and establishing himself as a capable backstop. He had a role on the Cardinals team that reached the 1985 World Series, but St. Louis ultimately fell to the Kansas City Royals in a seven-game series.

      Two years later, Nieto found himself on baseball’s biggest stage again, but this time on the opposite side. After a stint with the Montreal Expos, the Twins acquired him during the 1987 season. In Minnesota, Nieto appeared in 41 games as part of a team that would go on to win the World Series, defeating his former Cardinals club in seven games.

      While his offensive numbers with Minnesota were modest, Nieto played a supporting role on a roster that has become one of the most beloved in franchise history. Across two seasons with the Twins, he appeared in 65 games and contributed as a depth option behind the plate during a championship run. In total, Nieto spent seven seasons in the big leagues.

      Following his playing days, Nieto transitioned into coaching, where he made perhaps an even greater impact. He spent seven seasons with the New York Yankees organization from 1995 through 2002 and later joined the New York Mets, working under manager Willie Randolph. With the Mets, Nieto served as both a catching instructor and first base coach.

      For Twins fans, his name will always be tied to 1987, a season that remains one of the franchise's defining moments. Today, it also serves as a reminder of the people who helped make that run possible and the lasting impact they leave behind.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have made it clear they are trying to modernize the viewing experience. Since shifting to Twins.TV last season, the organization has experimented with new camera angles, broadcast enhancements, and presentation tweaks designed to keep fans engaged in a rapidly changing media landscape. On Monday night, they added another new element.

      Facing the Detroit Tigers, the Twins rolled out a player introduction straight out of the Monday Night Football playbook. Instead of the usual lineup graphic, each starter appeared on screen, introducing themselves and shouting out their college or high school. It was polished, energetic, and honestly, pretty cool.

      The concept worked. The execution, for the most part, worked too. What did not work was everything happening behind it.

      As each player delivered their introduction, the broadcast occasionally cut to wider shots of Target Field. That is where things took a turn. The backdrop for this primetime style rollout was a sea of empty seats, a visual contradiction that social media was quick to notice. No one was really taking aim at the idea itself. The production value was solid, and the players seemed to enjoy it. But pairing a bold declaration that Monday Night Baseball could rival Monday Night Football with a visibly sparse crowd felt like a miss.

      There are, of course, explanations. The weather did not cooperate, with temperatures dipping and wind chills settling into the 20s. It was also a crowded sports night, with the NCAA men’s basketball national championship drawing attention elsewhere. Those factors matter, and they are real.

      But they are not the whole story. The Twins drew just 1,768,728 fans in 2025, the lowest total the franchise has seen in a quarter century and the smallest in the history of Target Field. Early returns this season have not suggested a meaningful rebound. Through the first handful of home games, the team is averaging 19,381 in announced attendance, a number based on tickets sold rather than scanned. On Monday, the official figure was 12,569. Anyone watching could tell the actual turnout was lighter than that.

      There is a growing disconnect between the product on the field, the presentation on the screen, and the relationship with the fan base. Some of the most loyal supporters have become increasingly vocal about ownership, and in some cases, have chosen to stay home.

      That is what made Monday night feel so strange. The Twins delivered something fresh and entertaining, a glimpse at how baseball broadcasts can evolve and feel more personal. It should have been a moment that added energy to the ballpark and the viewing experience alike.

      Instead, it became a reminder that presentation can only do so much. You can dress up the broadcast, add personality, and borrow from the biggest stages in sports. But when the camera pulls back, the reality in the stands still matters.

      The idea was fun. The players bought in. The broadcast team executed it well. Now the challenge is making sure the atmosphere matches the moment next time they try it.

      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

      Major League Baseball dropped another sign that draft season is officially here on Wednesday, announcing updated bonus pools and slot values for all 30 clubs. Minnesota enters the 2026 draft cycle with a total bonus pool of $16,929,600, the fourth-largest in the sport. Only the Pirates, Rays, and White Sox sit ahead of them, putting the Twins in a position to be aggressive, flexible, and maybe even a little opportunistic when July rolls around.

      Holding the third overall pick certainly helps. That selection alone carries a slot value of $9,740,100, giving Minnesota a massive chunk of spending power right at the top. It is the kind of pick that can shape an entire draft class, whether the Twins choose to go with the best player available or try to manipulate the board with an underslot deal.

      The next key checkpoint comes at pick 43, where the assigned value sits at $2,333,200. That is another meaningful piece of the puzzle, especially for a front office that has not been shy about moving money around the board in recent years. Add in the Competitive Balance Round B selection at 74th overall, valued at $1,138,600, and the Twins suddenly have multiple pressure points to build out a deeper strategy.

      Around the league, the headlines start at the very top. The White Sox landed the No. 1 overall pick and with it a record-setting slot value of $11,350,600, the largest since the bonus pool system was introduced in 2012. Despite that, it is the Pirates who control the biggest overall pool at $19,130,700, another record and a reminder that volume still matters as much as position.

      This year’s increases were modest but notable. Slot values rose by 2.5% across the board, a reflection of the game’s continued revenue growth. In total, the 30 clubs combine for $358,662,500 in bonus pool money, up from $350,357,700 a year ago.

      Of course, teams rarely treat those numbers as strict guidelines. The system is built for creativity. Each pick in the first 10 rounds comes with an assigned value, and exceeding the total pool triggers penalties, but there is plenty of room to maneuver within those boundaries. If a player in the top 10 rounds does not sign, his slot value disappears from the pool entirely, raising the stakes on every negotiation.

      That is where things get interesting for teams like Minnesota. Clubs picking near the top often look to save money on their first selection, signing a player for less than slot value and redistributing those savings to later picks. It is a strategy that can turn a strong class into a deep one, especially when paired with extra selections like the Twins have this year.

      Recent spending trends suggest teams are more willing than ever to push the limits. Clubs handed out $392,533,711 in signing bonuses in 2025, shattering the previous record set just one year earlier. The Orioles led the way with a staggering $21,150,840, showing just how aggressive teams can be when the right opportunities present themselves.

      All of this sets the stage for a fascinating summer. The Twins are not just picking high. They are picking often, and they have the financial flexibility to take risks. In a draft that rarely follows a script, Minnesota has the resources to be creative with their spending. 

      Cody Christie

      There was a time not long ago when optimism around the Minnesota Twins felt sustainable. Competitive rosters, postseason appearances, and a growing core gave fans reason to believe. Now, according to The Athletic’s annual Hope-O-Meter, that belief has all but vanished.

      The latest fan survey, which included more than 11,000 respondents, paints a fascinating picture of the sport’s emotional landscape. Across Major League Baseball, optimism is actually trending upward. A strong 72% of fans reported feeling hopeful about their favorite team, a notable jump from 66% a year ago. Baseball, broadly speaking, is in a good place when it comes to fan confidence.

      That makes what is happening in Minnesota stand out even more.

      At the top of the rankings sit perennial contenders and rising powers. The Los Angeles Dodgers lead the way at an eye-popping 99.8% optimism, followed by the Toronto Blue Jays, Seattle Mariners, Detroit Tigers, and Kansas City Royals. The presence of Detroit and Kansas City is particularly notable for Twins fans, as two division rivals have surged into the league’s emotional elite.

      Minnesota, meanwhile, sits alone at the bottom. The Twins posted a staggering 4.3% optimism rating, the lowest mark in all of baseball. The only team even within shouting distance is the Los Angeles Angels at 5.7%. After that, the gap widens significantly, with no other franchise falling below 24%. This is not just pessimism. It is a complete erosion of belief.

      What makes the drop more jarring is how recent the optimism once was. In 2022, the Twins checked in at 70.1 %, placing them squarely in the middle of the league. By 2023, that number jumped to 91.3%, good for 10th overall, and they remained near that level in 2024 at 86.3%. Even entering 2025, there was still a baseline level of confidence at 52%.

      Now, that foundation has collapsed, and the reasons are not difficult to identify. On the field, inconsistency and underperformance have chipped away at expectations. Off the field, uncertainty surrounding ownership has only deepened the frustration. There was a moment last winter when it seemed possible the Pohlad family might explore a sale of the team, offering a potential reset and renewed direction. That possibility has since faded, and with it, a significant portion of fan optimism.

      The result is a five-year trend line that looks less like a normal fluctuation and more like a free fall. The Twins Hope-O-Meter arc resembles a slow climb to a peak followed by a sudden and dramatic plunge. There were real highs, but the landing has been hard.

      Rebuilding that trust will not happen overnight. It will take more than a hot streak or a promising prospect. Fans are looking for a clear vision, a commitment to winning, and signs that the organization understands the weight of this moment. That responsibility falls on everyone, from the front office to the clubhouse to ownership itself.

      For now, the numbers tell the story. In a league where hope is rising, Minnesota has run out of it. The next chapter for the Twins will not just be about wins and losses. It will be about convincing a disillusioned fan base that there is something worth believing in again.

       

      Cody Christie

      Major League Baseball spent years testing the automated ball strike system in the minors before finally rolling it out at the big league level in 2026. The early days of any new rule come with a learning curve, and on Sunday, that adjustment period produced a moment that will live in the record books.

      Twins manager Derek Shelton became the first manager to be ejected in Major League Baseball history over an ABS-related dispute. The moment came in the ninth inning of Minnesota’s 8-6 loss against Baltimore, and it unfolded in a way that perfectly captures both the promise and the confusion surrounding the league’s newest technology.

      With two outs and the Twins mounting a potential rally, Ryan Helsley appeared to issue a walk to Josh Bell. That would have brought the tying run aboard and shifted the pressure squarely onto Baltimore. Instead, Helsley signaled for a challenge, tapping his hat to trigger the ABS system. The call was overturned to a strikeout, abruptly ending Bell’s plate appearance and changing the complexion of the inning.

      Shelton immediately took issue, not necessarily with the result of the challenge, but with its timing. Under MLB’s ABS guidelines, players must initiate a challenge almost instantly after the umpire’s call. The unofficial benchmark has been about two seconds, leaving little room for hesitation. In real time, Helsley’s motion looked quick, but Shelton clearly saw it differently from the dugout.

      "I didn't think Helsley tapped his hat quick enough," Shelton said after the game. "Maybe he did, maybe he didn't. But I didn't feel he did. I feel it's gotta be something that's in the three seconds and I didn't think it was there. But the umpiring crew thought it was."

      The disagreement escalated quickly, and Shelton was tossed, cementing his place in MLB history as the first casualty of the ABS era.

      From Helsley’s perspective, the sequence was not as clear-cut either.

      "I understood where he was coming from, because I felt like the umpire didn't see me right away and so I was kind of confused," he said after the game. "(Home plate umpire Laz Díaz) behind me kind of took up for him. He was like, 'He did it right away,' which I know we're probably going to go through some growing pains with this since it's so new and I think we saw that today. And I can respect Shelton for trying to not get him to do it there, because it did seem like it was a little long in that moment."

      That last part might be the most important takeaway. MLB’s ABS system is designed to eliminate missed calls, but it introduces a new layer of subjectivity in how and when challenges are initiated. What feels immediate to one person may look delayed to another, especially in a high-leverage situation with the game on the line.

      The inning did not end quietly after the ejection. The next batter reached on an error, briefly extending Minnesota’s hopes, but Helsley regrouped and induced a game-ending flyout to shut the door.

      MLB and the ABS system will have some kinks in the season’s early weeks. Shelton’s ejection might be just the first step as the league and teams adjust to a new normal.

      Cody Christie

      Spring training is supposed to be about ramping up, refining mechanics, and building momentum toward Opening Day. For David Festa, it has instead become another exercise in patience.

      Festa felt discomfort in the back of his right shoulder during a bullpen session on February 24, a moment that immediately raised concern given the neurological thoracic outlet syndrome that cut short his 2025 campaign. This time, however, the news carried a different tone. An MRI revealed that the issue is unrelated to last fall’s diagnosis. Instead, Festa is dealing with a rotator cuff impingement, a far more familiar and, importantly, manageable obstacle.

      According to Dan Hayes of The Athletic, Festa remains several weeks away from leaving Florida as he continues his recovery process. That timeline is not insignificant, especially for a Twins club already navigating early-season pitching uncertainty, but the right-hander’s outlook provides reason for encouragement.

      “Honestly, it feels better than I probably expected,” Festa said. “I never want to make too much of it because it’s light catch from a shorter distance, but I feel like the arm’s moving cleaner.”

      At the moment, Festa is playing catch at 90 feet, a modest but meaningful step in the progression. The long-term plan remains fluid. Festa intends to build up like a starting pitcher, which aligns with how the organization has developed him to this point. There have been no formal discussions about a defined role, but the reality is difficult to ignore. The Minnesota Twins are already dealing with the loss of Pablo López for the season, and pitching depth will be tested early.

      That creates an interesting tension. On one hand, Minnesota would prefer to preserve as much starting depth as possible. Festa, once viewed as arguably the organization’s top pitching prospect, fits into that equation when healthy. On the other hand, shoulder issues have a way of reshaping development paths. If the Twins need immediate innings and Festa proves healthy but not fully stretched out, a move to the bullpen could be a practical solution.

      It is not as though Festa lacks the tools to succeed in that role. Over the last two seasons, he has posted a 5.12 ERA with a 4.27 FIP, backed by a strong 25.7 K% and a manageable 8.3 BB%. Those numbers suggest a pitcher whose underlying skills are more intriguing than the surface results. Shorter outings could allow his stuff to play up while limiting exposure and workload.

      Still, the organization will not rush that decision. Health comes first, and Festa will need to demonstrate that he can handle a consistent throwing program before anything else is considered. For now, the focus remains simple. Keep progressing. Keep building. Keep listening to the arm.

      If Festa continues on his current trajectory, he could still factor into Minnesota’s plans at some point this season. Whether that comes as a starter or in a relief role will depend on timing, health, and organizational need. What matters most is that the early signs suggest this setback is just that, a setback, not a turning point.

      In a season where pitching depth is already under strain, the Twins will take every bit of good news they can get. Festa’s recovery may not solve everything, but it is a step in the right direction at a time when those steps are especially important.

      Cody Christie

      Spring training is a time for timing to return, for mechanics to sharpen, and for everyone around the game to find their rhythm again. That does not just apply to hitters and pitchers. Broadcasters are shaking off rust too, and sometimes that leads to moments that take on a life of their own.

      That is exactly what happened in the Twins television booth when Glen Perkins and Cory Provus found themselves tangled in an exchange about Byron Buxton and his uniform style.

      It started innocently enough. Or at least it was supposed to. Perkins attempted to describe Buxton’s preference for wearing his baseball pants all the way down rather than pulled up to show high socks. Instead, he delivered a question that immediately veered off course.

      Perkins (GP): “You ever seen Buck with his pants down?”

      Provus, caught off guard, tried to clarify.

      Provus (CP): “Uh, no. Like in shorts?”

      GP: “No, like he’s got…he doesn’t have his,... no socks showing.”

      CP: “Ah, I see what you’re saying.”

      From there, the moment snowballed. Perkins tried to explain. Provus tried to recover. The booth never quite found its footing again, and within hours, the clip was circulating far beyond the usual Twins audience.

      It is the kind of exchange that lives in the uncomfortable middle ground between confusion and comedy. No one involved meant anything beyond a simple observation about uniform style, but the phrasing turned it into something else entirely. That disconnect is exactly why it spread.

      To their credit, Perkins and Provus leaned into it. During the spring training finale against the Boston Red Sox, they revisited the moment with a level of self awareness that made it even better.

      CP: “Take a look at that sharp uniform today, and just because we are thorough, the baseball pants the baseball pants are down at the bottom.”

      Perkins followed with a line that perfectly captured the absurdity of the entire situation.

      GP: “He has got his pants up around his waist, but also down around his ankles at the same time.”

      CP: “Baseball pants”

      GP: “Baseball pants”

      CP: “Baseball pants. Well that became a thing”

      At that point, everyone was in on the joke. Even Derek Shelton, who joined the broadcast, admitted the moment had taken on a life of its own. He said his phone lit up with messages from fellow parents in his volleyball circles, all reacting to what they had heard. His reaction was about what you would expect from someone trying to process the unexpected.

      "The first time I heard it, I was like, 'Good God, I don't know how to comment on this or think about it.' So, yeah, I don't know," Shelton said. "I was actually going to say last inning that Buck looks good with his pants down, not his pants on."

      Shelton even joked about nearly adding his own line to the chaos, saying he considered pointing out that Buxton looked good with his pants down, before wisely thinking better of it. Most importantly, he recognized what the moment had become.

      DS: “You guys definitely caught people’s attention. And the one thing about it is no one got canceled, which is the most important thing. And number two, you guys decided that you were going to bring the Twins to the forefront of the viral universe for about four or five hours.”

      That might be the most accurate summary of all. For his part, Buxton handled it exactly how you would expect from a veteran who has seen just about everything at this point. According to Perkins, the center fielder could not do anything but laugh when the two crossed paths afterward.

      Spring training can feel long. The games do not count. The repetitions can blur together. But every now and then, something breaks through the routine and reminds everyone that baseball is still a game, and the people around it are still human.

      This was one of those moments. It was awkward. It was unintentionally hilarious. It was completely harmless. And in a sport that often takes itself very seriously, it was a reminder that sometimes the best content is the kind no one plans. All it took was one question, one misunderstanding, and one pair of baseball pants to give the Twins their most unexpected viral moment of the spring.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins made another round of spring roster cuts, optioning both Ryan Kreidler and Eric Wagaman to Triple-A as Opening Day draws closer. While neither move comes as a complete surprise, the decisions help clarify how the bench picture is forming under new manager Derek Shelton.

      Kreidler’s path to the roster always felt like a narrow one. Claimed off waivers from the Pittsburgh organization in October, he brought some familiarity for Shelton, who previously spent time with the Pirates. That connection made him an intriguing under-the-radar candidate to win a backup middle infield role, especially given his defensive versatility.

      Ultimately, the bat did not provide enough support for the glove. Kreidler appeared in 17 spring games and went 6-for-39, good for a .154 average, with one home run and an 11-to-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio. The broader offensive track record paints a similar picture. Across 89 career big-league games, he owns a .383 OPS, which translates to an 11 OPS+. That level of production makes it difficult to justify a roster spot unless the defensive value is elite, and even then, there are limits to how much a team can carry offensively.

      Wagaman’s case is a bit different, but the result is the same. Acquired in early January in a trade that sent left-handed reliever Kade Bragg to Miami, Wagaman brought a more balanced offensive profile. He logged 140 games for the Marlins last season and hit .250/.296/.378 (.674). His 28 doubles and nine home runs helped him post an 86 OPS+, suggesting he can at least provide some pop off the bench.

      This spring, Wagaman showed flashes of that ability, going 10-for-39 with one home run and a 13-to-5 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 18 games. Still, without the same defensive upside as Kreidler, he needed to clearly separate himself offensively. That did not quite happen, leaving him on the outside looking in as the Twins finalized their bench mix.

      All signs now point to Orlando Arcia securing a spot on the Opening Day roster. The veteran infielder and former All-Star brings a longer track record and the ability to handle shortstop behind Brooks Lee. Even with a difficult 2025 season that saw him post a 42 OPS+ and -1.2 rWAR across 76 games between Atlanta and Colorado, Minnesota appears willing to bet on experience and defensive reliability in a reserve role.

      There is still time for things to shift at the margins, but this decision signals a clear preference from the Twins coaching staff. They are prioritizing stability up the middle while keeping additional depth in Triple-A should injuries or performance issues arise.

      In the end, both Kreidler and Wagaman remain part of the organizational picture. Each offers a different skill set that could become useful over the course of a long season. For now, though, the message is simple. The Twins are narrowing their focus, and the Opening Day roster is beginning to come into view.

      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 made a notable decision as camp winds down, reassigning Zebby Matthews to minor league camp and effectively handing the final rotation spot to Mick Abel.

      Coming into spring, Matthews looked like the logical favorite. He had more experience at the big league level and appeared poised to build on that foundation. Instead, the right-hander ran into trouble. Over 11 innings, he allowed seven earned runs while striking out nine and walking four. The results were not disastrous, but they were not convincing enough to lock down a job.

      Abel, on the other hand, forced the organization’s hand. Despite having fewer than 40 innings of major league experience, Abel delivered one of the most electric performances in camp. Across 13 1/3 innings, he gave up just two earned runs while racking up 17 strikeouts against a single walk. It was dominance paired with control, the exact combination teams want to see when evaluating young arms.

      That showing also served as a reminder of why Minnesota targeted him in last summer’s deal involving Jhoan Duran. The raw stuff has always been there, but this spring offered a glimpse of a pitcher beginning to harness it.

      With Abel now in place, the Twins’ Opening Day rotation appears set. Joe Ryan will take the ball first, followed by Bailey Ober, Simeon Woods Richardson, Taj Bradley, and Abel, rounding things out.

      Of course, spring decisions rarely tell the full story of a season. Matthews may be heading to Triple-A, but it would be surprising if he stayed there long. Pitching depth is tested early and often, and Minnesota already has questions to monitor.

      Ober’s velocity has been one of the biggest storylines of camp. The right-hander failed to crack 90 miles per hour in his most recent outing, raising concerns that are difficult to ignore. While the Twins will give him the opportunity to start, it is fair to wonder how sustainable success can be with diminished velocity and no clear explanation.

      That uncertainty only reinforces a simple truth across the league. Teams do not just need five starters. They need eight or ten. Matthews figures to be at the front of that next wave, and he will not be alone. Arms like Andrew Morris, Connor Prielipp, and Kendry Rojas are waiting in the wings at Triple-A. Each brings upside, and each could find themselves taking meaningful innings as the season unfolds.

      The Twins made their choice for Opening Day, but the reality is that this rotation is far from finished. It is simply the first version of what will be an evolving group all summer long.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins will hand the ball to Joe Ryan when the regular season begins on March 26 in Baltimore, the club announced Friday. It is a decision that felt inevitable at times this spring, yet briefly seemed uncertain as Ryan worked through an early health scare and an unexpected detour involving Team USA.

      Ryan’s spring did not begin smoothly. While warming up for his first Grapefruit League start, he experienced lower back tightness that forced Minnesota to pull him before taking the mound. The cautious move not only delayed his buildup but also altered his trajectory for the World Baseball Classic, where he had been in the mix for Team USA consideration.

      An MRI revealed no structural damage, offering immediate relief for both Ryan and the organization. Still, the timing proved costly. Ryan remained hopeful he could rejoin Team USA later in the tournament and was prepared to do just that. He had his car packed and was ready to drive to Miami in anticipation of pitching in the semifinal or championship round. Ultimately, Team USA informed him that he would not be used, a decision that caught Ryan off guard. He later expressed surprise at the call, while also emphasizing his appreciation for the Twins’ support throughout the process.

      In a twist that now benefits Minnesota, Ryan’s absence from the international stage allowed the club to keep his schedule intact. That alignment made him the clear choice for Opening Day, especially in light of the circumstances surrounding the rest of the rotation.

      Ryan is no stranger to the assignment. He previously started Opening Day in 2022 against the Seattle Mariners, allowing two runs across four innings. A first-inning home run by Mitch Haniger proved to be the difference in a narrow 2-1 loss. The outing was brief, but it provided Ryan with an early taste of the spotlight that comes with setting the tone for a season.

      This time around, he enters with a much stronger résumé. Ryan is coming off his first All-Star campaign, posting a 13-10 record with a 3.42 ERA. He struck out 194 hitters while issuing just 39 walks across a career-high 30 starts, cementing his place as one of the most reliable arms in the American League.

      The path to this year’s Opening Day assignment became even clearer when Pablo López was ruled out for the season following Tommy John surgery. With the staff ace sidelined, Ryan quickly emerged as the logical choice to lead the rotation. The only lingering question was his health, and that concern has largely been put to rest.

      After a brief 17-day pause, Ryan has looked increasingly sharp in recent outings. His latest start showed noticeable improvement, with his fastball velocity ticking upward and his command returning. He recorded six strikeouts against the Pittsburgh Pirates after failing to register a punchout in his spring debut, a clear sign that his rhythm is coming back at the right time.

      What once looked like a disrupted spring has come full circle. Ryan enters the season healthy, aligned, and positioned at the front of Minnesota’s rotation. For a team navigating early adversity, that stability could prove invaluable as the Twins open their season on the road.

      Cody Christie

      With the calendar turning toward the final week of spring training, the Minnesota Twins continue to narrow down their roster. On Tuesday, the club reassigned three more non-roster position players to minor league camp, signaling that decisions are becoming more real with each passing day.

      Outfielders Kala’i Rosario and Kyler Fedko, along with infielder Tanner Schobel, were the latest cuts. Rosario and Fedko were among a group of Twins prospects announced for the team’s Spring Breakout game on Thursday. The moves come just ahead of an off day on Wednesday, March 18, and leave the Twins with 21 position players remaining in big league camp. That group still includes a handful of non-roster invitees, but the competition is clearly tightening.

      Rosario may have made the strongest impression of the trio this spring. The 23-year-old went 5-for-15 in Grapefruit League action, showing some pop with a home run and driving in four. He also drew three walks, though the seven strikeouts highlight the continued development needed in his offensive approach. A fifth-round pick in 2020, Rosario finished last season at Double-A and remains an intriguing power bat in the system.

      Fedko, 26, brings versatility with experience at both first base and the outfield, but his spring numbers did not jump off the page. He collected three hits in 23 at-bats while striking out eight times. After splitting last season between Double- and Triple-A, he looks ticketed to provide organizational depth at the upper levels.

      Schobel, a 2022 second-round pick, also flashed some ability despite limited opportunities. The 24-year-old recorded two hits in 15 at-bats, including a home run, while working three walks. He reached Triple-A last season, and the Twins have continued to challenge him with aggressive assignments since drafting him.

      At this stage of camp, these moves are less about performance and more about roster realities. The Twins need to allocate at-bats and innings to players still competing for Opening Day roles, and that often means sending promising but not quite ready contributors back to the minor league side.

      None of Rosario, Fedko, or Schobel was expected to break camp with the major league club, but all three remain firmly in the picture for 2026. Each should factor into Triple-A depth at St Paul, positioning themselves as potential call-up options when injuries or roster needs inevitably arise during the season.

      Brock Beauchamp

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      Developing a pure, native app for either Android or iOS is a breathtakingly expensive endeavor, which is why we haven’t done it, despite so many requests over the years. Thankfully, technology has met us halfway, and PWAs (Progressive Web Applications) have reached maturity in the marketplace.

      What is a PWA? It’s effectively a pseudo-app that works much like a native application but doesn’t require tens of thousands of dollars in development to produce. It creates a single browser instance and maintains it as if it were an application. It’s basically a standalone browser tab, dedicated specifically to Twins Daily.

      From this app instance, you can receive notifications; the typical browser interface is removed, and the site is presented clearly, using as much screen real estate as possible, all without sacrificing any functionality. The site is faster, more reliable, and offers more mobile functionality than a standard web browser.

      Additionally, a newer, completely updated Twins Daily is coming later this year, and that will add even more app-like features, making PWA usage even better for all our users.

      With that said, here’s how you turn Twins Daily into an app on your mobile device.

      How To “Install” Twins Daily on iPhone or iPad Using Safari

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      3. Tap “Add to Home Screen”.
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      That takes you to your home screen on Android, where you can move the Twins Daily app around, just as you would any other app.

      Additionally, you can turn on notifications for the site. Just go to the following link while logged into the site: https://twinsdaily.com/notifications/options/.

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      Cody Christie

      Finalized rosters dropped on Wednesday, trimming each organization’s initial 40-player pool down into something much more game-ready. For the Twins, that means a prospect group in the mid-20s taking the field on Thursday afternoon, with a chance to show what the next wave of talent might look like in Minnesota.

      Major League Baseball’s third annual Spring Breakout event runs from March 19 through March 22, serving as a four-day window into the future of the sport. The Twins will host the Philadelphia Phillies prospects on Thursday at 12:05 p.m. CT, giving fans a midday look at some of the organization’s most intriguing names. The game will be widely accessible, airing on MLB Network and Twins.TV while also streaming for free on MLB.TV, MLB.com, and the MLB app.

      For Minnesota, this is more than just a novelty on the spring calendar. The roster is packed with players who could realistically factor into the club’s long-term plans, and in some cases, sooner rather than later.

      Spring Breakout rosters are built primarily from MLB Pipeline’s Top 30 prospects list for each organization, with eligibility tied to players who still qualify as rookies for the 2026 season. This year’s format again featured a two-step process: a 40-player pool, then a final group announced on Wednesday.

      One notable absence is Walker Jenkins, who will miss the event for the second straight year. The outfielder dealt with a hamstring injury earlier in camp, but the Twins have indicated he is progressing well. The expectation is that he will return to action later this week and be ready for Opening Day with St. Paul.

      Even without Jenkins, the Twins are not lacking in star power. Fourteen of Twins Daily’s top 20 prospects made the cut, giving this roster a legitimate amount of upside across the diamond.

      On the position player side, Emmanuel Rodriguez remains one of the most electric bats in the system, capable of changing a game with one swing or one sprint out of the box. Kaelen Culpepper continues to generate buzz as a fast-rising infielder with the tools to stick on the left side. Marek Houston, last year's first-round pick, will also get his first chance to show his lauded defensive skills at shortstop. Behind the plate, Eduardo Tait and Khadim Diaw give the Twins a pair of catching prospects that bring both intrigue and upside, each carving out their own path toward the upper minors.

      On the mound, Dasan Hill headlines the group as the highest-ranked pitching prospect on the roster. The left-hander has already turned heads this spring after touching 100 mph, and this setting feels tailor-made for a breakout performance. Marco Raya will be another arm to watch, especially as he continues transitioning into a bullpen role. Short bursts in a showcase environment could play directly into his strengths.

      All told, this is a roster that blends proximity with projection. Some of these players are a few adjustments away from knocking on the big league door, while others are just beginning to scratch the surface of what they might become. Either way, Thursday offers a rare opportunity to see that spectrum all at once.

      Finalized roster:
      PITCHERS (13)
      Miguelangel Boadas, RHP
      C.J. Culpepper, RHP, TD’s No. 18
      James Ellwanger, RHP, TD’s No. 20
      Brent Francisco, RHP
      Ruddy Gomez, RHP
      Alejandro Hidalgo, RHP
      Dasan Hill, LHP, TD’s No. 6
      Matt Des Marets, RHP
      Marco Raya, RHP, TD’s No. 15
      Mitch Mueller, RHP
      Sam Ryan, RHP
      Jonathan Stevens, RHP
      Eston Stull, RHP

      CATCHERS (3)
      Khadim Diaw, TD’s No. 19
      Ricardo Olivar
      Eduardo Tait, TD’s No. 4

      INFIELDERS (7)
      Billy Amick, 3B/1B
      Kaelen Culpepper, SS, TD’s No. 2
      Kyle DeBarge, SS, TD’s No. 17
      Marek Houston, SS, TD’s No. 9
      Ben Ross, IF
      Brandon Winokur, SS/3B, TD’s No. 13
      Quentin Young, SS, TD’s No. 14

      OUTFIELDERS (5)
      Gabriel Gonzalez, TD’s No. 7
      Kyler Fedko
      Hendry Mendez, TD’s No. 16
      Emmanuel Rodriguez, TD’s No. 3
      Kala’i Rosario

      Cody Christie

      There was nothing unusual about Joe Ryan on Monday afternoon. The right-hander took the ball at Hammond Stadium, worked four innings, allowed a single run on five hits, and struck out six with one walk. It looked like a standard March outing, the kind that blends into the rhythm of spring training. Except it wasn’t supposed to happen there.

      Ryan’s latest appearance came against the Pittsburgh Pirates in Fort Myers, not under the lights in Miami at the World Baseball Classic championship. For weeks leading up to this, the expectation was that Ryan would factor into Team USA’s pitching plans deep into the tournament. Instead, as events unfolded, he was left watching as the roster shifted in a different direction. The decision caught him off guard.

      “That was a shock,” Ryan told the Star Tribune. “Definitely a weird one to process. I was fully prepared, ready to go, the car was all ready, and excited to go there, obviously, the whole time. Then was told I wasn’t going to go.”

      The path to that moment had been anything but straightforward. Back in December, Ryan was originally named to Team USA’s roster as part of a loaded pitching staff assembled for a title run. However, a bout of back inflammation during spring training altered his early availability, keeping him out of pool play but leaving the door open for a return in the knockout rounds as the spring progressed.

      As Team USA advanced through the tournament, that opportunity seemed likely to materialize. At one point, Manager Mark DeRosa even indicated publicly that Ryan could step in for Clayton Kershaw if the team reached the later rounds, potentially pitching in the championship mix.

      Instead, when it came time to finalize the roster for the later rounds, Team USA ultimately used its available spot on reliever Jeff Hoffman, prioritizing bullpen depth over inserting Ryan into a starting role. This decision, made near the championship stage, left Ryan on the outside looking in, although his throwing schedule was carefully built around the possibility of pitching in the final.

      Adding to the frustration was the timing and method of communication. Ryan said he first learned of the roster change through Twins leadership shortly after the decision, not Team USA directly, and didn’t hear from USA Baseball until days later. Still, he made it clear where the support came from.

      “The Twins were great, super supportive with a really good plan the whole time,” Ryan said. “They really wanted me to go. It wasn’t up to us at the end of the day.”

      From Minnesota’s perspective, there is at least a practical silver lining. The organization had adjusted Ryan’s spring workload to align with a potential WBC appearance, and now that plan rolls seamlessly into the regular season. He remains on track to start Opening Day in Baltimore, a role that carries its own weight even if it lacks the global spotlight.

      It is a strange baseball reality. One week, you are penciled into a potential championship game for your country. The next, you are back on a spring mound facing a split-squad lineup. For Ryan, the preparation never changed. The opportunity did.

      Joe Ryan Timeline for World Baseball Classic

      • Dec. 17: Team USA announces that Ryan will be on its roster.
      • Feb. 21: Ryan is scratched from his Grapefruit League debut due to back discomfort.
      • Mar. 1: Ryan throws a bullpen session but is removed from consideration for the round robin portion of the tournament.
      • Mar. 10: Ryan makes his 2026 game debut for the Twins.
      • Mar. 12: Mark DeRosa says Ryan and Nolan McLean could pitch in some combination during the championship game.
      • Mar. 13: Team USA adds reliever Jeff Hoffman to the roster instead of Ryan.
      • Mar. 14: Ryan throws a bullpen session, and the Twins confirm he will remain in camp.
      • Mar. 15: Ryan makes his second spring start for Minnesota.
      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.

      Cody Christie

      Spring training is entering its final stretch, and the roster decisions are starting to come quickly.

      With Opening Day set for March 26 against the Baltimore Orioles at Camden Yards, the Minnesota Twins are beginning to finalize the final pieces of their pitching staff. On Monday, the club reduced its bullpen competition by sending two relievers out of major league camp.

      Minnesota reassigned right-handers Julian Merryweather and Grant Hartwig to minor league camp as the organization inches closer to setting its Opening Day bullpen.

      Both pitchers entered camp as non-roster invitees looking to pitch their way onto the major league roster. With the calendar now showing mid-March, the Twins are clearly entering the phase of spring where roster battles become more defined.

      The moves leave the organization with 45 players still active in big league camp, including 21 pitchers. However, that number does not fully reflect the group competing for Opening Day jobs. Right-hander David Festa is expected to begin the season on the injured list, while right-hander Travis Adams has been limited by elbow inflammation during camp.

      If Adams is not ready for the start of the season, the Twins would be left with roughly 13 relievers competing for what is expected to be eight bullpen spots on the 26-man roster.

      Merryweather showed flashes early in camp before his progress was halted by injury. The hard-throwing right-hander strained his left hamstring during his first Grapefruit League appearance on February 24. Since then, he has thrown several bullpen sessions but has not yet returned to game action.

      Hartwig saw plenty of work this spring, appearing in seven Grapefruit League games. The results were uneven as he allowed eight earned runs on seven hits and two walks across 7 1/3 innings.

      For both pitchers, the reassignment does not necessarily close the door on helping the Twins later this season. Injuries and performance fluctuations often lead to bullpen shuffling throughout the year, and strong outings in the minors can quickly put a reliever back on the radar.

      For now, though, Minnesota continues narrowing the field. With only days remaining before the season opener in Baltimore, the Twins are quickly approaching the moment when speculation ends, and the final 26-man roster becomes reality.

      Cody Christie

      Investing heavily in a high school pitcher is always risky. Pitchers are fragile, their development can take longer than planned, and injuries are common. The Twins accepted those risks when they picked Charlee Soto with the 34th overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft.

      Now, the early portion of Soto’s professional career has served as a reminder of that risk. According to MLB.com reporter Matthew Leach, Soto is behind schedule this spring as he continues to recover from bone spur surgery that took place last summer. The Twins Daily No. 10 prospect will open the 2026 season on the injured list, though there is some encouraging progress. Soto is expected to begin throwing live batting practice in early April, which could put him on a path toward returning to game action sometime later in the spring.

      Though not ideal, the delay is just another twist in Soto’s development. The Twins rarely use early picks on prep pitchers because it’s a volatile profile, often preferring college arms or position players at the top of the draft.

      Soto was an exception. The 17-year-old right-hander out of Reborn Christian Academy in Florida had the type of electric arm talent that made the gamble worthwhile. Minnesota signed him for a 2.48 million bonus and immediately placed him among the most intriguing young arms in the system. Since then, however, the results have been mixed.

      Soto made his professional debut in 2024 and spent the year with Fort Myers. The Twins managed his workload carefully, which is common for young pitchers in their first full season. Across 21 appearances, he posted a 5.23 ERA while showing flashes of the raw stuff that made him such an appealing draft target. His fastball velocity and overall athleticism remained impressive, but consistency proved difficult to maintain.

      The following season brought even more frustration. In 2025, Soto managed only 13 innings before injuries interrupted his year. A triceps strain sidelined him after just three starts with Cedar Rapids. As he worked his way through that recovery process, another issue emerged. In August, Soto underwent a procedure to remove a partially detached bone spur in his elbow.

      The positive news was that doctors found no structural damage in the elbow itself. For a pitcher, that distinction matters. Structural issues involving ligaments often lead to lengthy recoveries and, in some cases, major surgery. Soto avoided that scenario, which allowed the Twins to remain optimistic about his long-term outlook.

      This spring represents the first step toward putting those health questions behind him. Even though Soto will begin the season on the injured list, the expectation is that he will gradually build up his workload once he returns to the mound. Live batting practice in early April is typically one of the final checkpoints before pitchers resume competitive innings. If everything progresses as planned, Soto could see game action not long after that.

      Soto’s talent has never been the primary concern. His fastball already flashes the type of life that scouts dream about when projecting future big-league starters. His secondary pitches still require refinement, but the foundation of a legitimate pitching arsenal is there. What the Twins need to see now is durability and repetition. That means building innings.

      After throwing only a small number of frames over the last two seasons, Soto’s goal in 2026 should be to push past the 100-inning mark. Reaching that threshold would represent a meaningful step in his progression and help answer some of the durability questions that currently surround him.

      Equally important will be his ability to refine his command and pitch sequencing. Young pitchers often rely on raw velocity early in their careers, but long-term success requires learning how to navigate lineups, adjust during games, and consistently locate pitches in competitive counts.

      If Soto can combine improved health with those developmental gains, his prospect stock could rebound quickly. For now, patience remains the key. His 2026 season may begin later than expected, but it will offer another opportunity for Soto to show why the Twins believed in his potential in the first place.

      If he can return to the mound, stay healthy, and steadily build his workload, the narrative surrounding his development could start to shift again. For a pitcher with Soto’s ceiling, simply getting back on the field and logging consistent innings would be a meaningful step toward the future the organization envisioned on draft day.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have spent the past three seasons watching one of the most talented prospects in baseball climb through their farm system. Now, after a brief injury scare this spring, Walker Jenkins appears to be getting back on track.

      According to Matthew Leach of MLB.com, Jenkins is “tracking well” to be available for Opening Day with the St. Paul Saints. The update came Sunday from Twins general manager Jeremy Zoll, offering a positive outlook for the organization’s most important young player.

      Jenkins suffered a Grade 1 left hamstring strain on February 28, an injury that forced the Twins to slow his spring workload. Fortunately for both the player and the organization, the strain was considered mild, and his recovery has gone smoothly.

      The 21-year-old outfielder is expected to begin appearing in Minor League games by the end of the upcoming week as he continues ramping up his activity. His availability for the Twins’ upcoming Spring Breakout showcase on Thursday remains uncertain, and the club is unlikely to rush him into that event if he is not fully ready.

      Even without the Spring Breakout appearance, the most important goal for Jenkins is simply returning to a regular schedule before the Minor League season begins. Jenkins is widely considered the top prospect in the Twins system and one of the best prospects in baseball. Baseball America ranks him as the no. 9 overall prospect, a reflection of the tools that made him the fifth overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft. Last week, Twins Daily profiled him as the organization’s top prospect.

      Since entering professional baseball, Jenkins has done little to challenge those expectations. Scouts praise his advanced hitting approach, elite bat-to-ball skills, and the type of plate discipline rarely seen from a player his age. His combination of athleticism and offensive potential has led many evaluators to project him as a future cornerstone in the middle of the Twins' lineup.

      The Twins believe the best path forward is allowing Jenkins to start the season with St. Paul, where he can continue facing upper-level pitching while adjusting to the grind of a full professional season. Triple-A will provide the final developmental stage before a potential big league opportunity.

      That timeline also gives the organization flexibility. If Jenkins performs well and stays healthy, the Twins could view him as a legitimate option for the major league roster during the second half of the season. For now, the most important step is simply getting back on the field.

      A return to Minor League games in the coming days would represent another step in Jenkins’ steady climb through the system. If everything continues trending in the right direction, the Twins may soon have one of baseball’s brightest young talents knocking on the door of the big leagues.

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