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  • MLB Notes

    Read quick notes on the Minnesota Twins big league club, including injuries, lineup changes and roster moves.

    225 rumors in this category

      Cory Moen

      The Twins have optioned outfielder Kyler Fedko to Triple-A after Thursday's loss against Cleveland. This likely makes room for Ryan Jeffers to return from the injured list in the upcoming series against the Angels.

      Fedko was on the major league roster for about three weeks, where he played in 14 games, going 0-16 with eight strikeouts. His first major league hit will have to wait, as he will be back with Triple-A St. Paul this weekend. He was mostly used as a pinch runner and defensive replacement in his appearances with the Twins. 

      Cody Christie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

       

      Cody Christie

      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.

      Steve Drumwright

       

      The Minnesota Twins have lost one of their left-handed relievers for a bit.

      The Twins on Monday placed lefty Anthony Banda on the 15-day injured list due to a strained left lat and called up right-handed reliever Cody Laweryson from Triple-A.

      In 39 games and 34⅓ innings this year, Banda has a 4.32 FIP (4.46 ERA) with a 9.6 walk rate and 21.2 strikeout rate. He has already hit a career-high eight batters. He appeared in Sunday's 3-2 win over the Colorado Rockies, allowing a hit, hitting a batter, walking another and striking out a pair in two-thirds of an inning.

      Laweryson is with the Twins for a second time this year after making the Opening Day roster. He also spent time on the 15-day injured list due to a strained right forearm. When healthy, Laweryson appeared in 14 games and had a 4.97 FIP (5.06 ERA), posting a 9.7% walk rate and 25% strikeout rate. He has given up three homers in 16 innings.

       

      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. 

      Steve Drumwright

       

      With rosters formally expanding to 28 on Tuesday, the Minnesota Twins made the move official and added a familiar face.

      Shortstop Ben Ross had his contract selected from Triple-A St. Paul and will be making his MLB debut, while right-handed reliever Garrett Acton was also called up from the Saints. To make room for Ross on the 40-man roster, outfielder Kyler Fedko was designated for assignment.

      Ross' addition was known before rosters expanded Tuesday. The 25-year-old has a .274/.378/.506 slash line with 20 homers and 71 RBIs over 118 games between Double-A Wichita and Triple-A St. Paul.

      Acton has pitched in four games this season for the Twins, allowing five runs (two earned) over 6⅔ innings.

      Fedko made his MLB debut with the Twins this year, appearing in 14 games but going 0-for-16 with a run scored and an RBI. He did walk twice and struck out eight times.

       

      Matthew Taylor

      The Minnesota Twins are wasting little time challenging their top draft pick. Shortstop Marek Houston, the 16th overall selection in July’s draft, has been promoted to High-A Cedar Rapids after just 12 games with the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels.

      Houston impressed immediately in Low-A, slashing .370/.424/.444 with 13 strikeouts, five walks, and plenty of highlight plays in the field. His advanced glove work, considered the best among shortstops in this year’s draft, was a major factor in the Twins selecting him in the first round.

      He now joins a Kernels team that already has its ticket punched for the postseason after winning the Midwest League West Division’s first half. Houston will get a taste of playoff baseball right away, with 18 regular-season games left plus Cedar Rapids’ postseason run. His High-A debut could come as soon as tomorrow, August 19, when the Kernels visit the South Bend Cubs.

      What do you think of Houston’s early showing in the Twins organization? Is he tracking even faster than expected? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

      Matthew Lenz

      With an excess amount of depth from the outfield at both the major league and minor league levels, the Minnesota Twins are exploring the possibility of a recently acquired prospect trying their hand at a new position in 2026.

      In a recent episode of Inside Twins, general manager Jeremy Zoll said that Hendry Mendez would get an opportunity to play first base in 2026. Though it's not a position that Mendez has experienced, it is surely a position of need within the organization, and he's shown that outfield defense is not a strength of his.

      At the major league level, the Twins will likely use a combination of Josh Bell, Kody Clemens, and Victor Caratini at first. Behind those three, Aaron Sabato is the only real option, and it's pretty clear he's a long shot to contribute to the Twins, if there's a shot at all.

      Mendez, 21, was acquired from the Philadelphia Phillies in the Harrison Bader trade. He was added to the 40-man roster in November after a successful season at Double-A and in the Arizona Fall League. Though he didn't crack Twins Daily's top 20 prospect list in the last update, he was ranked as the Twins' 25th-best prospect by MLB Pipeline at the end of last season. After such a successful 2025, it's almost a guarantee he will move up in both lists.

      Do you think he can establish himself as a candidate for the Twins' first baseman in the future? Let us know in the comments!

      Cody Christie

      For much of the 2026 season, the Twins have been forced to navigate an endless stream of injuries. While the club continues to battle through those setbacks, Friday brought several pieces of positive news.

      Three notable names—top prospect Walker Jenkins, right-hander Mick Abel, and left-hander Kendry Rojas—are all progressing toward returns. Each player reached a significant checkpoint in his recovery process this weekend, offering hope that reinforcements could soon be on the way.

      Walker Jenkins Nearing Return to Game Action

      The Twins expect Jenkins to begin a rehab assignment with Low-A Fort Myers on Saturday, marking his first game action since suffering a Grade 2 AC joint sprain in his left shoulder on May 5. The injury occurred while he crashed into an outfield wall while making a catch for Triple-A St. Paul.

      Minnesota's top prospect was still finding his footing early in the season after arriving at Triple-A, but he entered the injured list on a much stronger note than he started. Before getting hurt, Jenkins had improved his season line to .256/.396/.389 (.785) across 111 plate appearances. That followed a 2025 campaign in which he posted a .286/.399/.451 (.850) slash line while climbing all the way to Triple-A.

      Since being selected fifth overall in the 2023 MLB Draft, the 21-year-old has dealt with a series of injuries. A hamstring strain cost him significant time in 2024, while an ankle sprain sidelined him for nearly two months in 2025. He also battled another hamstring issue during spring training this year.

      When healthy, Jenkins has consistently looked like one of baseball's premier prospects. If he returns from this latest injury and performs well at Triple-A, the possibility of a major-league debut later this season remains very much alive. At minimum, he appears poised to put himself in a position to contribute in Minnesota sometime during 2027.

      Mick Abel Closing In on Return to Rotation

      Abel's next step comes Saturday when he is scheduled to throw a light bullpen session following an impressive rehab outing earlier this week.

      Pitching for Triple-A St. Paul on Wednesday, Abel tossed three scoreless innings, striking out five while allowing only two hits. Perhaps most encouraging was the quality of his stuff. His fastball averaged 96.3 mph and topped out at 97.9 mph, looking much like the weapon that helped him dominate before landing on the injured list.

      The Twins shut Abel down on April 20 because of inflammation in his right elbow. His recovery appeared to be nearing completion in early May before lingering soreness in his right triceps after a simulated bullpen session temporarily halted his progress. The setback eventually led to a cortisone injection and additional recovery time.

      Before the injury, Abel was pitching some of the best baseball of his young career. He had thrown 13 consecutive scoreless innings over his final two starts and looked increasingly comfortable against major-league hitters.

      His return would arrive at an ideal time for Minnesota. Bailey Ober remains sidelined with a right flexor strain, leaving the Twins scrambling to piece together a rotation. The club has relied on multiple bullpen games in recent weeks, with Joe Ryan, Taj Bradley, Connor Prielipp, and Zebby Matthews carrying the workload. If Abel continues progressing without issue, he could soon provide the stability Minnesota desperately needs in the fifth spot.

      Kendry Rojas Taking Another Step Forward

      Rojas is scheduled to face hitters in a live batting practice session Saturday in Fort Myers as he works his way back from left triceps inflammation. The 22-year-old has been sidelined since May 29.

      Few pitchers have exceeded expectations this season the way Rojas has. He quickly established himself as a valuable multi-inning weapon. In 14 1/3 innings, Rojas has posted a sparkling 1.26 ERA while striking out 14 hitters. He has also demonstrated the flexibility to help in multiple roles. Earlier this season, Rojas made a spot start against the Houston Astros and responded by throwing four scoreless innings at Target Field.

      That versatility has become increasingly important as injuries continue to pile up throughout Minnesota's pitching staff. Whether he returns as a long reliever, spot starter, or bulk innings option, Rojas would give the Twins another reliable arm capable of reducing the burden on an already stretched pitching corps.

      After weeks of discouraging injury news, Minnesota finally has reason for optimism. None of these returns is guaranteed to happen immediately, but the progress of Jenkins, Abel, and Rojas offers a reminder that help may finally be on the horizon.

       

      Cody Christie

      There was a brief moment of concern surrounding Mick Abel this week, but the Minnesota Twins appear to have avoided a worst-case scenario. When Abel experienced soreness following a bullpen session, the organization opted for caution, and the MRI results delivered encouraging news.

      “We felt like if we aggressively treat it, get him on some anti-inflammatories and play it safe on the front end, it’ll be something that will be relatively quick and short,” general manager Jeremy Zoll said. “We didn’t want to try to chase it and then make it potentially worse later by trying to prolong this.”

      That measured approach reflects both the Twins' current pitching depth and the importance of Abel to the organization’s long-term plans.

      Originally selected 15th overall by the Philadelphia Phillies in 2020, Abel arrived in Minnesota with plenty of intrigue. He was part of last summer’s headline-grabbing deal that sent Jhoan Duran to Philadelphia, with catching prospect Eduardo Tait also coming back in return. At the time, the move signaled a shift toward reshaping the Twins' pitching pipeline.

      Now 24 years old, Abel’s development path has not been perfectly linear. Once a staple on top 100 prospect lists, his stock dipped entering 2025 before rebounding in a big way. He reached the majors with Philadelphia and pitched well enough to reestablish himself as a meaningful trade asset.

      Abel did not enter spring training with a guaranteed role, but he forced the Twins’ hand with a dominant showing in the Grapefruit League. Across 22 innings, he posted a 2.05 ERA with a 32.9% strikeout rate and just a 4.9% walk rate, looking every bit like a pitcher ready to contribute at the major league level.

      The regular season has brought some ups and downs, which is to be expected for a young arm finding his footing. After being hit hard in his first two outings, Abel responded with authority. He delivered 13 consecutive shutout innings across starts against Detroit and Boston, compiling a 16-to-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio in the process.

      Through 20 1/3 innings, Abel owns a 3.98 ERA with a 24.7% strikeout rate and a 10% walk rate. Underlying metrics paint an even more encouraging picture. His 2.79 FIP suggests better days ahead, while a 3.93 SIERA reinforces the idea that he has been a steady contributor.

      For the Twins, the decision to pause rather than push reflects both confidence and caution. Elbow inflammation is not something to ignore, especially for a pitcher with Abel’s workload trajectory, but it is far from a devastating diagnosis.

      The focus now shifts to recovery and timing. If the inflammation responds well to treatment, Abel could return without missing significant time and continue building on what has been a promising start.

      In a season where pitching depth is already being tested, keeping Abel healthy matters. The early signs suggest the Twins have navigated this situation correctly, giving themselves a chance to have one of their most intriguing young arms back on the mound sooner rather than later.

      Cody Christie

      The Twins entered Monday hoping for positive news regarding Bailey Ober's injured right elbow. While losing one of their most dependable starters is never ideal, the update from general manager Jeremy Zoll suggested the organization may have avoided a much more serious situation.

      Ober was diagnosed with a mild right flexor strain after undergoing an MRI. The most encouraging aspect of the evaluation was that the ulnar collateral ligament graft from his previous Tommy John surgery remains fully intact.

      According to Zoll, Ober will be shut down from throwing for 10 to 14 days while receiving anti-inflammatory treatment before being reevaluated. The Twins are also seeking a second opinion from renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. Keith Meister, but early indications have been positive.

      For a pitcher with a Tommy John history, any elbow discomfort immediately raises concerns about ligament damage. Instead, Minnesota appears to be dealing with a relatively minor flexor issue. While no timetable has been established for a return, Zoll's comments suggested the absence could be measured in weeks rather than months.

      The news does not eliminate the challenge facing Minnesota's rotation. Ober had been a stabilizing presence, consistently providing innings while helping bridge the gap between the club's younger arms and veteran starters. However, considering the range of possible outcomes, the Twins have reason to feel relieved.

      Mick Abel Continues His Climb Back

      Another important pitching update involved Abel, who has been sidelined with right elbow inflammation. Abel is scheduled to throw live batting practice on Thursday, which represents a significant step forward in his recovery. If that session goes well, he could begin a rehabilitation assignment shortly afterward.

      Even under an optimistic timeline, Abel still appears several weeks away from returning to the major league roster. He will likely need multiple rehab appearances before being considered game-ready. Still, after weeks of uncertainty, the fact that he is nearing competitive action is an encouraging development.

      Cole Sands Nearing Return to Bullpen

      The Twins could soon receive reinforcements in the bullpen. Sands is set to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul on Tuesday after missing more than a month with a right forearm strain. His return would provide a welcome boost to a relief corps that has spent much of the season searching for consistency.

      Although Sands posted a 4.63 ERA through his first 12 appearances this season, his value extends beyond the raw numbers. He has proven capable of handling leverage situations and was expected to play a prominent role in Minnesota's late-inning plans before the injury occurred.

      The Twins have shuffled bullpen roles throughout the season, making Sands' eventual return one of the more significant developments on the injury front.

      Ryan Jeffers Making Steady Progress

      Jeffers continues to move forward after surgery to repair a fractured hamate bone in his left wrist. More than a week removed from the procedure, Jeffers had his stitches removed over the weekend and has been pleased with how his recovery is progressing. He has already resumed throwing activities, an important early milestone.

      The next hurdle will be swinging a bat. Hamate injuries often pose challenges for hitters because regaining wrist strength and comfort can take time. Until Jeffers begins taking swings, it will remain difficult to project a realistic return date. For now, the early signs appear positive.

      David Festa Begins Throwing Program

      Festa remains the furthest away from returning, but he has officially started the next phase of his recovery. After receiving a stem-cell injection to address his shoulder issue, Festa spent three weeks completely shut down from throwing. On Monday, he began a structured throwing program that will include three weeks of flat-ground work before progressing back to mound sessions.

      The timeline underscores how much work remains before Festa can return to game action. Nevertheless, beginning a throwing program is an important step after an extended shutdown period.

      Injuries have tested the Twins' pitching depth throughout the season, but Monday's collection of updates offered more optimism than concern. Ober avoided a potentially devastating diagnosis, Sands is nearing a return, Abel is progressing toward rehab games, and both Jeffers and Festa continue moving through their recoveries.

      The encouraging news is that several important pieces appear to be moving in the right direction, giving the Twins hope that help could be arriving over the next few weeks.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins continue to battle through injuries as the calendar pushes deeper into May. With the season past the quarter mark, staying healthy becomes even more important for a club trying to get closer to a .500 record.

      Some updates offered optimism this weekend, while others created additional uncertainty. Byron Buxton appears close to returning after progressing through baseball activities, but Taj Bradley’s rehab outing at Triple-A St. Paul raised more questions about his timeline. Minnesota also provided updates on several pitchers working their way back from arm injuries.

      Byron Buxton Progressing Toward Return

      Buxton continues to trend in the right direction after dealing with right hip flexor soreness. The Twins consider him day to day, and the recent updates suggest a return may not be far away. Buxton reportedly came through a workout on May 16 without issues and returned to on-field work before the game again on May 17. That is an encouraging sign considering how important he has been to Minnesota’s lineup this season.

      When healthy, Buxton changes the complexion of the roster. His defense in center field remains above-average, and his power production has helped stabilize the middle of the lineup. Minnesota has understandably taken a cautious approach because hip and lower body injuries can quickly become lingering concerns for a player whose game depends heavily on explosiveness. The fact that he continues to increase baseball activities is a positive development for the Twins moving forward.

      Taj Bradley’s Rehab Outing Raises Concerns

      Bradley remains on the 15-day injured list with right pectoralis muscle inflammation after being placed there retroactive to May 6. The Twins hoped Bradley would take a significant step forward during his rehab start with Triple-A St. Paul on Sunday. Instead, the outing ended much earlier than anticipated. Bradley failed to make it out of the second inning after throwing 31 pitches in the frame before being removed from the game.

      On Sunday’s episode of Inside Twins, general manager Jeremy Zoll explained that the organization wanted Bradley to complete roughly four innings while staying near 65 pitches. Because he was unable to reach those benchmarks, his timetable for returning to Minnesota remains unclear.

      That development is notable because the Twins have leaned heavily on their rotation early in the season. Bradley was expected to play a meaningful role for the pitching staff, but the club now appears likely to proceed carefully until he demonstrates he can handle a normal workload again.

      Cody Laweryson Takes Another Step Forward

      Laweryson continues progressing in his recovery from a right forearm strain that landed him on the injured list back on April 9. Laweryson made a rehab appearance with Triple-A St. Paul on Saturday and delivered a clean inning. He allowed no hits, walked one batter, and did not record a strikeout.

      For a pitcher returning from a forearm issue, simply getting through an outing healthy is often the biggest objective. The Twins will likely continue gradually increasing his workload before considering him for activation. According to Zoll, he is expected to make at least two more rehab appearances this week.

      Minnesota’s bullpen depth has been tested throughout the season, so getting another healthy arm back into the mix would provide needed reinforcement.

      Cole Sands Beginning Throwing Progression

      Sands remains sidelined with a mild right forearm strain after going on the injured list retroactive to April 29. The good news is that Sands resumed playing catch on May 12 and May 13 as the Twins began building him back up. At this stage, the organization appears focused on making sure he progresses slowly over the next week before advancing to more intense throwing sessions.

      Forearm injuries always create some level of concern for pitchers, which explains why Minnesota has emphasized patience with Sands. Before the injury, he had become an increasingly important option for the Twins in middle relief situations. If his throwing progression continues without setbacks, he could eventually begin mound work later this month.

      Mick Abel Receives Encouraging Evaluation

      One of the more encouraging updates involved Abel, who has been sidelined with right elbow inflammation since April 17. Abel was evaluated by noted orthopedic surgeon Dr. Keith Meister, who agreed with previous evaluations that the issue stems from posterior elbow impingement. Most importantly for the Twins, there were reportedly no concerns involving the forearm or the ulnar collateral ligament.

      That distinction matters significantly because UCL damage often carries the possibility of Tommy John surgery. Instead, Abel has already resumed light throwing and started playing catch on Wednesday. Minnesota can now focus on rebuilding his arm strength rather than worrying about a more serious structural issue.

      Injuries remain one of the defining storylines for the Twins during the opening months of the season. The organization received positive news regarding Byron Buxton and Mick Abel, while Taj Bradley’s shortened rehab outing introduced additional uncertainty to the pitching staff picture.

      As Minnesota attempts to stay competitive through the middle months of the season, getting healthy contributors back on the field could be a major factor in whether the club can gain momentum in the standings.

      Cody Christie

      Spring training optimism is built on bullpens, backfields, and best-case scenarios. Reality tends to show up somewhere between the trainer’s room and the long toss line. On Thursday, Minnesota got a dose of both hope and concern when head athletic trainer Nick Paparesta provided updates on three critical arms that could shape the trajectory of the pitching staff not just for this season but beyond.

      The biggest update came for Pablo Lopez, who underwent Tommy John surgery on Wednesday. Importantly, Lopez received the repair version of the procedure with an internal brace rather than a full ligament reconstruction. The repair process generally shortens recovery by 1 to 2 months, significantly altering his return timeline.

      If the 2027 season begins on schedule, Lopez should be tracking toward a return near the start of the year. That alone represents a meaningful win given the alternative. However, the looming possibility of a labor stoppage could further change the equation. Should a lockout delay Opening Day, Lopez might realistically be ready when games resume, allowing Minnesota to regain its ace without missing meaningful time.

      Meanwhile, Joe Ryan continues progressing after experiencing back tightness over the weekend while warming up for what would have been his first spring start. Ryan has resumed long toss and is scheduled to throw a bullpen session this coming weekend. That outing will serve as the next checkpoint in determining how his body responds before the Twins chart out a clearer ramp-up plan.

      There is also an international wrinkle. It remains undecided whether Ryan will participate in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, and how he rebounds from the bullpen session could factor heavily into that decision. Minnesota has long preached the importance of managing workloads early in the year, and this situation may force a more conservative approach.

      The most concerning news may belong to David Festa, who is being shut down for a couple of weeks due to a shoulder impingement. Festa received an injection in the shoulder, and the pause immediately puts the start of his season in jeopardy. Paparesta noted that the issue is unrelated to the thoracic outlet syndrome that ended Festa’s 2025 campaign, which is certainly encouraging, but the timing remains problematic.

      Minnesota has not publicly suggested any long-term role change, yet it is fair to wonder whether a move to the bullpen could ultimately be the best path forward for Festa. Shoulder concerns layered on top of last year’s thoracic outlet syndrome history make durability in a starting role increasingly difficult to project over a full-season workload.

      Taken together, these updates offer a snapshot of the balancing act that defines modern pitching staffs. Lopez provides optimism for the future. Ryan represents cautious day-to-day monitoring in the present. Festa embodies the uncertainty that often forces organizations to reconsider development plans on the fly. For a Twins club that has leaned heavily on its pitching depth in recent years, how each of these timelines unfolds could quietly determine how aggressive the front office needs to be before Opening Day and how sustainable the rotation will look once the games begin to matter.

      Cory Moen

      The Twins announced a set of roster moves, recalling LHP Kody Funderburk from Triple-A St. Paul and reinstating RHP Cody Laweryson from the 15-day injured list.

      In corresponding moves, LHP Kendry Rojas was placed on the 15-day injured list with elbow inflammation, and Travis Adams was optioned to Triple-A St. Paul.

      Funderburk has had mixed results this year, pitching in five games with St. Paul and throwing five innings, where he gave up five runs while recording seven strikeouts. Earlier in the year at the major league level, Funderburk threw 16 innings for the Twins, where he struck out 10 hitters, earned a save, and had a much better 2.81 ERA, but his underlying metrics weren't as stellar (5.44 FIP).

      Laweryson has thrown 6 1/3 innings prior to the injury, striking out eight hitters, with a 2.43 FIP and a 0.789 WHIP. It's a small sample size, but he could be someone who serves as a solid option out of a bullpen, looking for solutions in various areas.

      Rojas was scratched from his most recent start and is having an MRI, which will reveal how serious the elbow injury is.

      Adams has had mixed results this year, mostly as a multi-inning reliever, throwing 10 innings for the Twins, striking out 12, but has given up eight runs, and a 4.77 FIP in that small sample size. He will likely return to the majors when a fresh arm is needed in the future.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have spent much of the early portion of the 2026 season trying to survive wave after wave of pitching injuries. From key starters to important bullpen contributors, the organization has rarely had its preferred staff intact for more than a few days at a time.

      Tuesday finally brought some encouraging news. Both Taj Bradley and Cole Sands made progress in their recoveries, offering some hope that reinforcements may not be too far away for a pitching staff that desperately needs stability.

      Bradley, who landed on the injured list Saturday with right pectoralis muscle inflammation, resumed throwing and played catch out to 90 feet. The 25-year-old also sought a second opinion from noted orthopedic surgeon Dr. Keith Meister after an MRI came back clean. That clean MRI result was already an encouraging development. Seeing Bradley begin throwing again only adds to the optimism surrounding his recovery timeline.

      “He played catch up to 90 feet today,” Twins manager Derek Shelton said. “So I think from there we’ll make sure we appropriately put the program together.”

      The Twins can hardly afford to lose him for an extended period. Bradley has been nothing short of electric in his first season with Minnesota, posting a 2.87 ERA and 52 strikeouts across 47 innings through his first eight starts. More importantly, he has brought a level of swing-and-miss dominance that the Twins' rotation has largely lacked in recent years.

      His raw stuff has consistently jumped off the screen. Earlier this season against the Kansas City Royals, Bradley became the first Twins starting pitcher to hit 100 mph since pitch tracking began in 2008. That type of velocity is rare anywhere in baseball, but especially within Minnesota’s pitching history.

      While any pectoral injury raises concern for a pitcher, there is at least some precedent for optimism. Bradley dealt with a similar injury while pitching for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2024. That strain sidelined him for roughly a month before he returned to make 25 starts and throw 138 innings by season’s end.

      The Twins will likely proceed cautiously this time as well, especially considering how valuable Bradley has become to the rotation almost immediately after arriving in Minnesota.

      The encouraging updates did not stop there. Sands also took an important step forward Tuesday by throwing a bullpen session as he works his way back from a right forearm strain. Sands has been sidelined since late April and could soon progress to facing live hitters if everything continues moving in the right direction.

      Even though Sands’ traditional numbers do not immediately stand out, the Twins' bullpen has clearly missed him. The right-hander owns a 4.63 ERA in 11 2/3 innings this season, but some of the underlying metrics paint a more favorable picture. Sands has posted a solid strikeout rate while carrying a 3.65 SIERA, suggesting he has pitched better than his ERA indicates.

      His final appearance before going on the injured list may have offered a clue that something was physically wrong. Sands allowed two runs against Seattle on April 28 in an outing where his stuff appeared noticeably diminished.

      Perhaps most concerning was the drop in velocity. After averaging roughly 95 mph on his fastball in 2025, Sands sat closer to 93.1 mph this season before landing on the injured list. Any time a pitcher experiences declining velocity alongside forearm discomfort, alarms naturally go off. That is why simply getting back on a mound for a bullpen session qualifies as meaningful progress.

      The Twins currently have eight pitchers on the injured list, including starters Bradley, Mick Abel, David Festa, and Pablo López. That level of attrition would challenge any organization’s depth, even one that had eight or more starting pitchers on their depth chart to start the year.

      For now, there is still no official timetable for either Bradley or Sands to return. The Twins will almost certainly remain cautious, particularly with Bradley, given both his importance to the rotation and the nature of his injury.

      Still, after weeks of increasingly discouraging injury news, Tuesday finally gave the organization something it has not had much of lately: optimism. If Bradley can continue to progress without setbacks and Sands can build toward live batting practice soon, the Twins may finally begin to see light at the end of what has been a brutally difficult stretch for their pitching staff.

       

       

      Cory Moen

      The Twins have released RHP Cody Laweryson. He was designated for assignment on August 1 after the Twins needed room on the 40-man roster after acquiring A.J. Minter to bolster the bullpen.

      Laweryson made 15 appearances with the Twins this season, throwing 16 2/3 innings, recording 18 strikeouts and eight walks. He's recorded a 4.86 ERA and a slightly worse 5.08 FIP along with a 1.380 WHIP.  He made his major league debut in 2025 and was DFAed during the offseason. He was claimed by the Angels, but the Twins brought him back in mid-February.

      He has also made eight relief appearances with Triple-A St. Paul, throwing nine innings, with eight strikeouts and three walks.

      Laweryson will now look for his next opportunity, whether that be re-signing with the Twins or taking a new opportunity elsewhere.

      Cory Moen

      The Twins released OF Kyler Fedko after he was designated for assignment on September 1. Fedko made his major league debut earlier this year, playing in 14 games at the major league level. In those 14 games, he had 16 at-bats but did not get his first major league hit.

      Fedko did walk twice and has one RBI to go along with eight strikeouts in 19 plate appearances. He played 75 games with Triple-A St. Paul, with a slash line of .274/.362/.545, good for a .908 OPS with 17 home runs and 10 stolen bases.

      Fedko has signed a minor league deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates and will rehab his torn ACL in Bradenton, where the Pirates' Single-A team plays. 

       

      Cody Christie

      The revolving door in the Minnesota Twins bullpen kept spinning on Tuesday. Minnesota optioned right-hander Woo-Suk Go to Triple-A St. Paul and recalled Jack Anderson, the organization's newest bullpen addition. It's another move that highlights the reality of the Twins' season: they're still searching for anyone capable of providing consistent innings out of one of baseball's least reliable bullpens.

      Go's latest opportunity came to an abrupt end after Monday's outing, when he surrendered three runs on four hits while recording just three outs. It was another reminder that, despite the intriguing upside that made him worth acquiring, the results simply weren't there.

      When Minnesota initially acquired Go, the club was required to place him on the active roster because of a clause in his contract. That requirement never meant the Twins had to keep him in the majors indefinitely, and after four appearances, they decided it was time for him to continue working at Triple-A.

      The numbers made that decision relatively straightforward. Over four innings with Minnesota, Go allowed four earned runs on eight hits while posting a 5-to-2 strikeout-to-walk ratio. The strike-throwing wasn't necessarily the issue. Instead, opposing hitters consistently squared him up.

      A 53.5% hard-hit rate paired with a 94.9 mph average exit velocity tells the story. Big league hitters were making loud contact and that's a difficult formula for any reliever to survive, especially one trying to establish himself with a new organization.

      The Twins clearly still believe there's something to work with. Otherwise, they wouldn't have targeted him in the first place. But for now, Triple-A offers a better environment to make adjustments without the pressure of protecting late leads in the American League playoff race.

      His departure opens the door for another fresh arm. Minnesota claimed Anderson from the Boston Red Sox organization just over a week ago, and Tuesday marks his first opportunity with his new club.

      The 27-year-old already checked one milestone off his list this season by making his major league debut with Boston. He also represented Great Britain during the World Baseball Classic, where he threw three innings, allowing one earned run while striking out three.

      In limited major league action with the Red Sox, Anderson logged eight innings across three appearances, allowing three runs on eight hits with six strikeouts and only two walks. It's a small sample, but one that showed enough promise for Minnesota to take a chance. His Triple-A numbers were more modest, posting a 4.57 ERA while striking out 20.0% of opposing hitters and walking 8.1%.

      Anderson isn't going to overpower hitters. His fastball sits just above 90 mph, but his arsenal relies more heavily on movement than velocity. He leans on an 81.4 mph sinker and an 80.9 mph slider, giving hitters a different look than many of the power arms found throughout today's game.

      Whether that profile translates consistently at the major league level remains to be seen. For the Twins, though, this isn't about finding the next All-Star closer. It's about finding competent innings.

      The bullpen has been one of the organization's biggest weaknesses throughout the season, forcing the front office to cycle through waiver claims, internal promotions, and role changes in hopes of uncovering a reliable contributor. Anderson becomes the latest pitcher to receive that opportunity.

      Sometimes those moves produce unexpected success stories. Other times, they're simply placeholders until someone else earns the next chance. Minnesota hopes Anderson falls into the first category.

      For now, the latest bullpen shuffle reflects where the organization is today: rebuilding relief depth one roster move at a time.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins will once again get a chance to showcase the future of their organization later this month.

      Major League Baseball’s third annual Spring Breakout event will take place from March 19 through March 22, highlighting the game’s top prospects in exhibition matchups during spring training. Minnesota will host the Philadelphia Phillies prospects on Thursday, March 19, at 12:05 p.m. CT. Fans will have several ways to watch the game. It will air on MLB Network and MNNT, and stream for free on MLB.TV, MLB.com, and the MLB app.

      For the Twins, this year’s game should feature several players who could eventually factor into the team’s long-term plans.

      The Twins were hoping to showcase outfielder Walker Jenkins, the club’s top-ranked prospect. However, his status for the event remains uncertain after he recently suffered a left hamstring injury. He is still included in the initial player pool listed below. 

      Because pitchers must remain on their scheduled throwing days during spring training, it can be difficult to predict exactly who will appear in the game. Even so, Minnesota has no shortage of candidates who could take the mound during the showcase.

      How the roster works
      According to MLB.com, Spring Breakout rosters are created using MLB Pipeline’s Top 30 prospects for each organization as a foundation. Players who still maintain rookie eligibility for the 2026 season are eligible to be selected for the event.

      This year, the process includes two phases. Teams first submit a preliminary 40-player pool, then trim it down to a final roster of roughly 23 to 27 players shortly before the event.

      The larger pool allows teams to adjust for injuries, pitching schedules, and the player movement that can occur during spring training. It also accounts for prospects who may be unavailable because of assignments in the Dominican Summer League or other roster considerations.

      Minnesota’s preliminary group features a strong mix of highly ranked prospects and additional depth players. Even if a few names are unavailable by the time the final roster is set, the Twins should still field a group worth watching when they face the Phillies' prospects.

      Preliminary 40-man player pool
      Pitchers (24)

      Catchers (4)

      Infielders (7)

      Outfielders (5)

      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

      The Minnesota Twins made it official Friday, selecting the contract of outfielder Walker Jenkins and bringing one of the organization’s most anticipated prospects to the major leagues. The move was reported Thursday, but Minnesota officially announced the promotion Friday.

      To make room for Jenkins on the active roster, the Twins optioned outfielder Alan Roden to Triple-A St. Paul. Minnesota also needed to clear a spot on its 40-man roster, designating right-handed pitcher Woo-Suk Go for assignment.

      For the Twins, the move marks the arrival of a player who has been viewed as a cornerstone of the organization since he was selected fifth overall in the 2023 MLB Draft. Jenkins has continued to establish himself as one of baseball’s top prospects throughout his professional career. Across multiple minor-league levels, he has compiled a .303/.404/.490 batting line.

      His plate discipline has been particularly impressive. Jenkins has posted a 13.4% walk rate while striking out just 15.9% of the time. His 144 wRC+ shows just how productive he has been offensively, as he has performed 44% better than league average.

      The 21-year-old also brings plenty of ability beyond the batter’s box. Jenkins has good speed and a strong throwing arm and is considered a capable defender at all three outfield positions. That versatility could give the Twins multiple options for how they use him during the final weeks of the season.

      Jenkins’ promotion comes as Minnesota attempts to remain in the American League playoff race. The Twins have struggled to find consistency throughout the season, but the arrival of one of their best young players gives the club another option as it navigates the final month.

      There will naturally be an adjustment period for Jenkins as he faces major-league pitching for the first time. However, his minor-league track record gives the Twins plenty of reason to believe he can contribute immediately.

      For Roden, the move provides an opportunity to get regular playing time in St. Paul. The Twins acquired Roden as part of last year's trade involving Louis Varland, and he has remained part of the organization's plans despite struggling to establish himself offensively in Minnesota. He has received limited playing time in recent weeks, making just 10 starts in August.

      Roden is hitting .254/.333/.313 this season, producing a .647 OPS and an 84 OPS+. Sending him to Triple-A should allow Roden to get consistent at-bats and continue developing rather than spending extended periods on the major-league bench.

      The Twins' 40-man roster move ends Go’s brief run with the organization, at least for now. Minnesota took a chance on the 28-year-old right-hander earlier this season after he opted out of his contract with the Detroit Tigers organization. Go joined the Twins hoping to provide another option for a bullpen that has undergone significant changes throughout the season.

      Go appeared in four games for Minnesota in July, allowing four runs. He posted a 3.91 ERA between Triple-A Toledo and St. Paul this season, although his numbers were much different between the two stops. Go struggled significantly in Toledo, posting a 12.54 ERA, before pitching better after joining the Saints.

      His time in St. Paul also included a 10-game suspension after he was found to have an illegal substance on his glove. Now, Go will head to the waiver wire following Minnesota’s decision to designate him for assignment.

      Those roster moves, however, are secondary to the biggest news of the day for the Twins. After more than three years of development, Jenkins has officially reached the major leagues. The former fifth overall pick is at Target Field, giving the organization an opportunity to see one of its most important young players against major-league competition. The next chapter of Jenkins’ career begins now.

      Cody Christie

      Minnesota's roster makeover continued Saturday. Less than 24 hours after adding another starting pitcher before the trade deadline, the Twins announced another round of transactions ahead of their matchup with the Seattle Mariners. The headline move was expected: newly acquired left-handed reliever A.J. Minter was officially activated. 

      To make room on the 26-man roster, the Twins optioned right-hander Zebby Matthews to Triple-A St. Paul. The move isn't necessarily an indictment of Matthews' performance on Friday night. He gave Minnesota five innings, allowed three earned runs, and struck out an impressive 10 hitters against Seattle. However, his overall July results painted a different picture. Across 24 2/3 innings, Matthews posted a 7.66 ERA and 5.69 FIP while recording 23 strikeouts against 14 walks.

      With Dean Kremer acquired to bolster the rotation, Matthews became the logical candidate to head back to Triple-A. The timing gives the Twins a fresh bullpen arm in Minter while creating what appears to be a clear opening for Kremer to slide into the starting rotation.

      Minnesota also made a change to its 40-man roster, designating right-hander Cody Laweryson for assignment. Laweryson appeared in 15 games for the Twins this season, logging 16 2/3 innings with a 4.86 ERA and 5.08 FIP while striking out 18 and walking eight. Although he flashed intriguing stuff at times, injuries have impacted him this season. A right forearm strain sidelined Laweryson for much of April and May, and after he was optioned to Triple-A in early July, Laweryson has been on the St. Paul injured list since July 19.

      His departure immediately created room for another pitcher. Right-hander Garrett Acton was reinstated from the 60-day injured list and optioned to Triple-A St. Paul. Minnesota acquired Acton from the Miami Marlins this spring in exchange for Logan Whitaker, but he has been limited to four appearances after suffering a right shoulder strain that landed him on the injured list at the end of April.

      Acton's rehab assignment offered plenty of encouragement. In six innings for St. Paul, he surrendered just one earned run while striking out eight and walking only one. Opponents managed just a .053 batting average against him during that stretch. If the shoulder continues to respond well, Acton could quickly emerge as another bullpen option for a Twins club that has spent the past week aggressively reshaping its pitching staff.

      With Minter now in the bullpen, Kremer expected to join the rotation, and additional depth returning from injury, Minnesota's pitching staff looks noticeably different than it did just a few days ago, and the Twins might not be done adding before Monday’s deadline. 

      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 Twins made a low-risk addition to their bullpen depth on Sunday, acquiring right-handed reliever Woo-Suk Go from the Detroit Tigers in exchange for cash considerations. While the move won't generate significant excitement, it gives Minnesota another intriguing arm to evaluate as the club continues to fight for an American League Wild Card spot.

      Because Go had an assignment clause in his contract, the Twins must add him to the 40-man roster. Fortunately, Minnesota already had an open 40-man roster spot, so no corresponding move was necessary.

      Go signed a minor league contract with Detroit last December after spending the 2024 season in the Miami Marlins organization. The Tigers never promoted him to the major league roster, despite an impressive first half with Triple-A Toledo.

      Across 27 2/3 innings this season, Go posted a 2.60 ERA while striking out 29.1% of opposing hitters. He also has yet to surrender a home run. Some of those numbers have been helped by a favorable .239 batting average on balls in play, but the underlying traits remain appealing. His ability to miss bats and keep the ball on the ground gives the Twins another bullpen option with upside. That profile is especially valuable considering Minnesota's struggles to find consistency in relief.

      Outside of Yoendrys Gómez and Andrew Morris, few Twins relievers have provided dependable production throughout the first half. Morris owns an above-average 17.1 K-BB% rate and a 3.04 xERA over 40 innings. Gómez has taken on the closer role and has posted a 234 ERA+ with a 15.6 K-BB%. 

      As a unit, Minnesota's bullpen has posted a 5.28 ERA with a 19.9% strikeout rate, an 11.5% walk rate, and a 39.7% ground-ball rate. All four marks rank among the bottom ten bullpens in Major League Baseball. Only five teams have a lower fWAR total, and their -1.2 WPA ranks 23rd overall. 

      Adding Go doesn't solve those issues overnight, but it represents another attempt by the front office to uncover value without sacrificing future assets. The 26-year-old arrives with an impressive résumé from Korea. Before coming to Major League Baseball, Go was one of the KBO League's top closers, relying on a lively fastball and swing-and-miss slider to pile up saves. His transition to affiliated baseball has been uneven, particularly with his command, but his strikeout ability has continued to show up whenever he's been healthy.

      Minnesota is betting that those traits can translate against major league hitters. The timing also makes sense. The Twins improved to 44-47 with Sunday's victory over the Yankees and remain only two games behind an American League Wild Card spot. With the trade deadline still several weeks away, the front office isn't locked into either buying or selling. Moves like this allow the organization to add potential contributors while maintaining payroll flexibility and preserving its prospect depth.

      According to reports, Go is expected to join the Twins on Tuesday and should have an opportunity to make his major league debut shortly thereafter. How long he remains in Minnesota may ultimately depend on both his performance and the club's direction over the next few weeks.

      If the Twins stay in the postseason race, Go will have to earn every appearance in a competitive bullpen. If Minnesota slips further behind before the trade deadline, he could receive a longer opportunity to prove he belongs as the organization evaluates arms for both the remainder of 2026 and beyond.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins are adding another experienced arm to the organization, agreeing to a minor league deal with veteran right-hander Luis García. The 39-year-old reliever is expected to report to Triple-A St. Paul, giving the Twins a no-risk opportunity to evaluate whether he still has something left in the tank.

      García opened the season with the New York Mets after signing a one-year deal worth $1.75 million over the winter. That partnership didn’t last long. After just six appearances, the Mets decided to move on, cutting ties following a brief stretch where García struggled to find consistency. In 6 1/3 innings, he allowed five earned runs on 11 hits while walking two and striking out four.

      It’s an ugly line on the surface, but it also represents a very small sample size. For a pitcher with García’s track record, six outings are hardly enough to draw a definitive conclusion. Still, the Mets saw enough to pivot quickly, eating the remainder of his salary rather than attempting to stash him in the minors.

      That decision opens the door for Minnesota. Even at 39, García isn’t far removed from being a useful bullpen piece. Just last season, he logged over 50 innings across multiple teams while posting a 3.42 ERA. He leaned on a heavy sinker that generated ground balls at an impressive clip, helping him work around less-than-elite strikeout and walk numbers. It wasn’t dominant, but it was effective, and that’s exactly the type of profile the Twins have targeted in the past when building bullpen depth.

      The concern now is whether that version of García still exists. Early returns this season showed a noticeable dip in velocity. His sinker, which sat in the upper 90s a year ago, has backed off by a couple of miles per hour. His secondary pitches have followed a similar trend. For a pitcher who relies on movement and weak contact, even a slight drop in stuff can make a meaningful difference.

      That’s where this signing becomes interesting. Minnesota doesn’t need García to be a high-leverage weapon. They don’t even need him in the majors right away. What they do need is depth, especially with the unpredictable nature of modern bullpens. By bringing him in on a minor league deal, the Twins can give him time to work in St. Paul, evaluate his stuff in a lower-stakes environment, and determine if any adjustments can help him regain effectiveness.

      There’s also a financial advantage built into the move. Because the Mets released him, they remain responsible for the bulk of his salary. If García works his way onto Minnesota’s roster, the Twins would only owe him the prorated league minimum. For a team always mindful of payroll flexibility, that’s about as low-risk as it gets.

      If it clicks, the Twins could uncover a steady veteran capable of soaking up innings and generating ground balls in the middle innings. If it doesn’t, they can move on without consequence.

      Moves like this rarely grab headlines, but they often matter over the course of a long season. Bullpen attrition is inevitable, and organizations that can cycle through experienced options tend to weather that storm better than most.

      For now, García is simply the latest name added to that mix. Whether he becomes anything more will depend on what he shows in St. Paul and whether the Twins can help him turn back the clock, even just a little.

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