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  • Minnesota Twins Free Agent & Trade Rumors, Notes, & Tidbits

    The latest Minnesota Twins free agent and trade rumors, along with notes and tidbits about the team.
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    Steve Drumwright
    The next man up in the Minnesota Twins' bullpen shuffle is Austin Voth.
    The right-hander had his contract selected from Triple-A St. Paul on Tuesday, with the Twins sending right-hander Cody Laweryson down to St. Paul.
    Voth was designated for assignment by the Toronto Blue Jays, then latched on with the Twins on a minor-league contract on June 4. Voth made two appearances and pitched six innings for the Jays, giving up six runs on eight hits and five walks with just one strikeout. In three appearances at St. Paul, Voth surrendered nine runs (eight earned) on 14 hits with six walks and 17 strikeouts. Voth originally signed a minor-league contract with the Chicago White Sox this offseason before being released late in spring training.
    Laweryson has pitched in 16 innings over 14 games, posting a 5.06 ERA (4.97 FIP) with seven walks and 18 strikeouts.
     
     
    Cody Christie
    While the Twins have remained within striking distance of contention for stretches, their inability to separate themselves from the pack has increasingly pointed toward a seller's approach at the trade deadline. If that direction becomes official, few players on the roster may generate more interest than catcher Ryan Jeffers.
    According to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, the New York Yankees "are making it no secret" that they want to acquire Jeffers before the trade deadline.
    The interest is understandable. Jeffers is playing on a team-friendly $6.7 million contract and will become a free agent after the season. Productive catchers are difficult to find at any point during the year, and contenders searching for offensive upgrades behind the plate won't find many options with Jeffers' combination of power, on-base skills, and defensive ability.
    Jeffers has been sidelined since May 18 after suffering a fractured hamate bone in his left hand. The injury required surgery and has kept him out for more than five weeks, but recent developments suggest he is trending in the right direction.
    The veteran catcher has resumed baseball activities and recently began taking batting practice. Speaking with reporters this week, Jeffers acknowledged that recovery from the injury has been anything but predictable.
    "There's good days, there's bad days," Jeffers told reporters. "It's a funky buildup just because it's not a straight line. It's not like rehabbing from an oblique where you can kind of timetable it out, of 'Hey, a couple swings here, a couple swings there.' Because there's so much — not to get too medical on it – but there's new pathways that the nerves and the tendons have to learn that just take a little time, but we're in the swings, and we're getting to above-arm BP swings. I like where we're at."
    The encouraging news for Minnesota is that most of the remaining hurdles involve hitting. Jeffers said he has experienced few issues on the defensive side of his recovery and even caught a bullpen session earlier this week. His return to game action will largely depend on how quickly he becomes comfortable swinging a bat again.
    Before the injury, Jeffers was producing at an All-Star level. Through 39 games, he slashed .295/.408/.541 with seven home runs, 26 RBI, and a .949 OPS. Those numbers represented some of the best offensive production of his seven-year career and reinforced his value as one of the more productive offensive catchers in the American League.
    The Yankees have plenty of reasons to pursue that type of player. While Austin Wells remains a strong defender and one of baseball's better pitch framers, New York has received very little offensive production from the catching position this season. Yankees catchers have ranked near the bottom of baseball offensively, creating a clear need for an upgrade as the club pushes toward October. Jeffers would provide exactly that. 
    He would also come at a lower acquisition cost than many of the bigger names potentially available on the market. Teams are often reluctant to move catchers during the season because of the relationships they build with pitchers and coaching staffs. However, Jeffers' expiring contract and Minnesota's current position in the standings could create a rare opportunity.
    Victor Caratini has shown throughout his career that he can handle a larger workload and could step into the primary catching role if Jeffers is moved. That gives Minnesota flexibility that many clubs don't possess when considering a trade involving a starting catcher.
    None of that makes the decision easy. Jeffers has spent his entire professional career in the Twins organization since being selected in the second round of the 2018 MLB Draft. He has developed into one of the club's most consistent offensive performers and remains a respected presence in the clubhouse.
    Still, if Minnesota ultimately decides to prioritize the future over a long-shot playoff push, moving an impending free agent at peak value may be the most logical path.
    The next few weeks could determine everything. If Jeffers returns before the deadline and demonstrates that his bat is fully healthy, his market will only continue to grow. The Yankees may be the most obvious suitor today, but they likely won't be the only contender calling the Twins about one of the deadline's most appealing rental catchers.
    Cody Christie
    As the August 3 trade deadline approaches, front offices across baseball are beginning to shape their strategies. The biggest headlines are expected to revolve around established stars and frontline starting pitchers. Names such as Tarik Skubal, Freddy Peralta, Robbie Ray, and Joe Ryan could dominate conversations if their teams decide to sell, while clubs around the league continue monitoring the situations involving players like Jarren Duran, Aroldis Chapman, Sonny Gray, Rafael Devers, Willy Adames, and Matt Chapman.
    Yet every deadline produces a handful of unexpected moves involving players who were never viewed as obvious trade candidates. According to The Athletic's Jim Bowden, Royce Lewis could fit that description this summer.
    Bowden recently included Lewis among his list of 10 under-the-radar trade candidates, citing both his talent and the growing market for impact infielders around the league. While Lewis has spent much of his career battling injuries, he remains an intriguing player because of his age, athleticism, positional versatility, and offensive upside.
    "The only question is: Can he stay healthy?" Bowden wrote. "He's healthy now, and several contending teams are looking to upgrade at third base and he can also play first base, so he may get moved."
    The timing of the speculation is notable because Lewis has looked much more like himself in recent weeks. After opening the season with a disappointing .163/.261/.279 (.540) slash line and three home runs across his first 31 games, Lewis was optioned to Triple-A St. Paul in a move that felt unthinkable just a year earlier. Instead of sulking, the former No. 1 overall pick responded exactly how the Twins hoped he would.
    Lewis crushed eight home runs in just 13 games with the Saints before earning a return trip to Minnesota. Since being recalled on June 6, he has looked rejuvenated at the plate, producing the type of impact contact that once made him one of baseball's top prospects. In 15 games, he has an .873 OPS with four homers and three doubles.
    The improvements have extended beyond the batter's box. Minnesota has shifted Lewis primarily to first base, where he has appeared in all but one game since returning to the majors. The organization has paired him with Twins Hall of Famer Justin Morneau in an effort to accelerate his development at the position, and the early returns have been encouraging.
    That positional change can be viewed from multiple angles. On one hand, it may represent the Twins searching for a long-term defensive home that allows Lewis to remain healthy while keeping his bat in the lineup. First base could provide stability as the organization continues developing its next wave of infield talent. On the other hand, rival executives may wonder whether the Twins are also attempting to maximize Lewis's value before the deadline.
    During Lewis's stint in Triple-A, Brooks Lee settled in at third base while top prospect Kaelen Culpepper continued progressing toward the major leagues. Luke Keaschall remains part of the organization's future plans despite some defensive growing pains, giving Minnesota multiple young infield pieces around which to build.
    If the Twins remain firmly in contention, moving Lewis would be difficult to justify. A healthy and productive Lewis still possesses the type of talent capable of changing a lineup and impacting a postseason race.
    If Minnesota falls further behind, however, the front office could face difficult decisions. Last year's deadline demonstrated a willingness to make unexpected moves, and Lewis would undoubtedly attract interest from clubs searching for controllable upside. He remains under team control through the 2028 season, making him appealing to both contenders and teams planning beyond this year.
    For now, Lewis is impacting the Twins, but there could be an element of "freezer burn" with Lewis that makes the front office consider moving on with other younger options ready to take his place.
    Cody Christie
    The race to determine the starters for the 2026 MLB All-Star Game is entering its final stretch, and Byron Buxton is putting himself in position for a memorable milestone.
    The first phase of fan voting opened on June 3 and will conclude on Thursday, June 25, at 11 AM CT. During this opening phase, fans can vote for the starting lineup in each league, selecting eight position players and one designated hitter. Ballots are available through MLB.com, all 30 club websites, the MLB app, and the MLB Ballpark app. Fans can vote up to five times every 24 hours.
    When Phase 1 concludes, MLB Network will reveal the top vote-getters at every position. The leading vote-getter in each league automatically earns a starting spot, while the remaining finalists advance to Phase 2, where fans determine the rest of the starting lineup.
    Buxton Climbs Into Prime Position
    The latest voting update released Monday brought encouraging news for Twins fans. Buxton moved into third place among American League outfielders with 1,106,264 votes.
    American League Outfield Voting Leaders (June 22 Update)
    Aaron Judge, Yankees — 1,788,499 Mike Trout, Angels — 1,735,051 Byron Buxton, Twins — 1,106,264 Cody Bellinger, Yankees — 1,067,622 Julio Rodríguez, Mariners — 819,514 Randy Arozarena, Mariners — 793,017 Daulton Varsho, Blue Jays — 782,016 Jesús Sánchez, Blue Jays — 764,037 Riley Greene, Tigers — 751,512 Buxton's rise is notable because he sat fourth among American League outfielders in the previous update. A dominant stretch over the last few weeks has helped him leapfrog Cody Bellinger and move firmly into position to advance to Phase 2 voting.
    His performance has backed up the support. Buxton enters the week ranked second in the American League with 24 home runs and third in slugging percentage at .591. After years of battling injuries, he has remained on the field and produced at an elite level, giving Twins fans a compelling case to rally behind during the final days of voting.
    Injuries Could Change the Picture
    The voting leaderboard may not tell the entire story. Judge currently leads all American League outfielders, but he is expected to miss the All-Star Game after suffering a rib stress fracture. Judge's absence would leave one of the outfield starting spots open regardless of where he finishes in the voting process.
    Meanwhile, Trout's status has become less certain after he landed on the injured list last week with a right hamstring strain. Trout remains second in the voting, but his availability for the Midsummer Classic is now unclear.
    If both stars are unable to participate, Buxton's chances of earning a starting assignment improve significantly. Even if Judge and Trout remain among the leading vote-getters, MLB would need replacements should either player be unavailable.
    Final Week Push Ahead
    Minnesota has not had many realistic candidates for fan-elected starting spots in recent seasons, but Buxton has changed that narrative in 2026. His combination of power, highlight-reel defense, and durability (knock on wood) has made him one of the American League's most valuable players through the season's first half.
    The final days of Phase 1 voting will determine whether he advances comfortably to the next round, but his recent climb up the leaderboard shows that fans across baseball are taking notice. For a player who has spent much of his career battling injuries and unrealized All-Star potential, Buxton is now closer than ever to hearing his name announced as an All-Star Game starter.
    Steve Drumwright
    The setback sustained by right-hander Mick Abel has a trickle-down effect.
    The Minnesota Twins on Sunday activated left-hander Kendry Rojas from the 15-day injured list, with right-handed reliever Justin Lawrence designated for assignment. Rojas, Twins Daily's No. 9 prospect, had been out since May 29 with inflammation in his left elbow.
    Abel, on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation, threw a bullpen session Friday in anticipation of him starting Sunday, but woke up Saturday with a sore elbow, forcing the Twins to come up with an alternate plan. That will be right-hander Mike Paredes starting the series finale against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
    Rojas could be a relief option for Sunday. He has made five appearances (one start), including his MLB debut, and been very good. Rojas has a 1.26 ERA in 14⅓ innings, walking 10 and striking out 14.
    Lawrence has been DFA'd for the second time this season. The Twins acquired Lawrence for cash considerations from the Pittsburgh Pirates on June 2 after he was DFA'd. His brief time with the Twins did not go well. In six innings across seven appearances, Lawrence had an 18.00 ERA, getting tagged for 12 runs on 10 hits with nine walks and 12 strikeouts. This came after a 5.32 ERA in 22 games with the Pirates.
     
    Cody Christie
    For a brief moment, it looked like the Twins were about to get one of their most important reinforcements back. Instead, Mick Abel's return to Minnesota's rotation is on hold once again.
    According to the Minnesota Star Tribune's Bobby Nightengale Jr., Abel experienced a setback in his recovery process after throwing a 20-pitch bullpen session on Friday. The right-hander will not return from the injured list this week and is scheduled to undergo an MRI when the club gets back to Minnesota. That's an unwelcome development for a pitching staff that has already spent most of the season patching together innings.
    A Promising Rehab Assignment Takes a Turn
    Abel has been sidelined since April 20 after being placed on the injured list with right elbow inflammation. The injury interrupted what had been an encouraging first season in the Twins organization after arriving as part of last summer's trade deadline haul. 
    The 24-year-old finally began a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul earlier this month, and the early results couldn't have gone much better.
    In his first outing on June 10, Abel tossed three scoreless innings while allowing only two hits and striking out five batters. He followed that performance six days later with an even longer outing, surrendering one run across five innings while once again recording five strikeouts.
    Those appearances appeared to put him on the doorstep of a return to the major league rotation. Instead, the Twins are back in wait-and-see mode.
    Rotation Questions Continue to Mount
    Minnesota's pitching depth has been tested all season, and Abel's setback only adds another layer of uncertainty. Pablo López is already lost for the remainder of the year. Bailey Ober remains on the injured list with a flexor strain, though the organization remains optimistic that his absence won't be a lengthy one. Simeon Woods Richardson was moved to Toronto after struggling to establish himself in the rotation.
    That leaves the Twins leaning heavily on Joe Ryan and Taj Bradley at the top of the staff while searching for consistency from a younger group of arms.
    Connor Prielipp has shown flashes of why the organization remains excited about his future. Zebby Matthews continues to work through the ups and downs that come with gaining major league experience. Mike Paredes has also been asked to shoulder a larger role than originally anticipated. The group has managed to keep Minnesota competitive, but the margin for error continues to shrink.
    Every Game Matters
    The timing of Abel's setback couldn't be much worse. Entering Saturday night's action, Minnesota sat 4.5 games behind Cleveland in the American League Central and 2.5 games out of the final Wild Card position. The Twins remain firmly in the postseason conversation, but they can ill afford to lose additional rotation depth for an extended period.
    If the MRI reveals only a minor issue, Abel could still rejoin the club relatively soon. However, if the setback leads to another lengthy shutdown, Minnesota may need to explore external options before the trade deadline or continue relying on inexperienced pitchers to navigate meaningful games down the stretch.
    The Twins have spent much of the season waiting for reinforcements, and Abel looked poised to become one of the most significant additions to the roster. His strong rehab outings offered hope that help was finally on the way.
    Now, the organization is once again waiting on medical results. For a team trying to chase down a division title and climb back into a playoff spot, the news serves as another reminder of just how thin the line can be between contention and crisis. The Twins have survived plenty of pitching injuries already in 2026. Whether they can continue doing so may depend on what Abel's MRI reveals in the coming days.
    Cody Christie
    As the countdown to the 2026 MLB Draft continues, most evaluators agree on one thing: nobody truly knows how the first three picks will unfold. That uncertainty is exactly what makes this year's draft so intriguing for the Twins.
    In his latest attempt to project the top of the draft, MLB.com draft expert Jim Callis laid out six different scenarios for the first three selections. While there are certainly other possibilities, his projections reinforce the idea that three elite prospects have separated themselves from the rest of the class. The debate centers around three names: UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky, Georgia Tech catcher Vahn Lackey, and prep shortstop Grady Emerson.
    For Minnesota, that's a pretty good place to be.
    Cholowsky Still Leads the Pack
    Callis currently projects the White Sox to select Cholowsky with the first overall pick. That wouldn't qualify as a surprise. Cholowsky has spent much of the draft cycle viewed as the favorite to go No. 1 overall thanks to his polished all-around game, defensive value at shortstop, and offensive upside. He has been the most consistent name atop draft boards for months.
    But consistency doesn't necessarily mean certainty. With several weeks remaining before draft night, teams are still gathering information, discussing bonus pool strategies, and determining whether another player might offer more value at the top of the board.
    Lackey's Meteoric Rise
    If Cholowsky goes first, Callis predicts the Rays would select Lackey with the second overall pick. Few players have boosted their stock more than the Georgia Tech backstop this spring. What began as a strong season evolved into a legitimate argument that Lackey could be the best player available in the entire draft.
    Catchers always bring additional risk because of the physical demands of the position, but Lackey's offensive profile and defensive tools have convinced many evaluators that he belongs in the conversation for the first overall selection. In fact, several of Callis' scenarios have Lackey coming off the board before either Cholowsky or Emerson.
    Emerson Could Be the Twins' Prize
    Under Callis' most likely projection, Minnesota lands Emerson at No. 3 overall. Not long ago, many draft observers believed Emerson would be the favorite to go second overall to Tampa Bay. That's no longer a consensus view, but it illustrates just how fluid the top of this draft remains.
    For the Twins, Emerson represents the type of upside teams dream about acquiring near the top of the draft. The prep shortstop has long been viewed as one of the most talented players in the class, and there are still plenty of scenarios where he doesn't make it past the first or second pick.
    That's why Minnesota's front office is likely spending more time preparing for multiple outcomes than targeting one specific player.
    The Tyler Bell Wild Card
    Another factor worth monitoring is Kentucky shortstop Tyler Bell. Callis noted that Bell could be willing to sign for less than slot value if selected within the top five picks. Those types of bonus considerations can dramatically alter draft boards.
    If a team believes it can save money early and redistribute those dollars later in the draft, Bell could become an appealing option. Any surprise move involving Bell would create a ripple effect that impacts the prospects available when Minnesota is on the clock.
    The Odds Favor Minnesota
    Callis assigned probabilities to six potential outcomes involving the first three selections:
    Cholowsky (White Sox), Lackey (Rays), Emerson (Twins): 26% Cholowsky (White Sox), Emerson (Rays), Lackey (Twins): 24% Emerson (White Sox), Lackey (Rays), Cholowsky (Twins): 21% Emerson (White Sox), Cholowsky (Rays), Lackey (Twins): 19% Lackey (White Sox), Emerson (Rays), Cholowsky (Twins): 5% Lackey (White Sox), Cholowsky (Rays), Emerson (Twins): 5% From Minnesota's perspective, the math works out quite nicely. Those projections give the Twins roughly a 43% chance of landing Lackey, a 31% chance of selecting Emerson, and a 29% chance of ending up with Cholowsky. When the possible outcomes are the three best players in the draft, those are odds any front office would gladly accept.
    A Familiar Situation
    This year's draft bears some resemblance to the 2023 draft. That summer, the Twins benefited from the inaugural MLB Draft Lottery, jumping from the 13th pick to the fifth overall selection. The top of that draft featured a clear group of elite prospects, and Minnesota's strategy was simple: wait and take whichever premium talent remained available. The result was Walker Jenkins, who has remained the organization's top prospect ever since.
    The Twins could find themselves following a similar blueprint this year. Rather than being locked into one player, Minnesota appears positioned to let the first two picks dictate its decision. With Cholowsky, Lackey, and Emerson all viewed as top-tier talents, the organization may simply select whichever member of that trio is still available.
    Draft season often becomes a search for certainty, but this year's class isn't offering much of it at the top. What it is offering, however, is opportunity.
    The White Sox and Rays will ultimately determine how the board unfolds, but Minnesota enters the process in an enviable position. Whether it's Cholowsky's polish, Lackey's rising star power, or Emerson's immense upside, the Twins appear likely to walk away with one of the draft's premier talents.
    With less than a month until commissioner Rob Manfred steps to the podium, the picture remains cloudy. For the Twins, that's perfectly fine. Sometimes the best draft strategy is letting the talent come to you.
     
    Cody Christie
    The Minnesota Twins announced Thursday that former pitcher Al Worthington passed away earlier this week at the age of 97.
    For younger Twins fans, Worthington's name may not immediately jump off the page. However, his impact on some of the most successful teams in franchise history is impossible to overlook. Long before closers became baseball celebrities and bullpen usage charts consumed front offices, Worthington quietly became one of the game's most reliable late-inning arms and a key contributor to Minnesota's first American League pennant.
    Worthington arrived in professional baseball after starring at the University of Alabama and signing with the Chicago Cubs organization in 1951. After only one season in the minors, he was traded to the New York Giants, a move that would launch a major-league career spanning parts of 14 seasons.
    His introduction to the majors was memorable. Called up in 1953, Worthington opened his career by throwing complete-game shutouts in each of his first two appearances. He posted a 3.44 ERA as a rookie and appeared briefly for the Giants during their 1954 championship season. Although he did not pitch in the World Series, he was part of the club that defeated Cleveland in a Fall Classic best remembered for Willie Mays' iconic over-the-shoulder catch at the Polo Grounds.
    Worthington spent six seasons with the Giants organization, including the franchise's historic move from New York to San Francisco in 1958. Along the way, he transitioned from starting pitcher to reliever, a role that ultimately prolonged his career. Stops with the Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, and Cincinnati Reds followed before his baseball journey took an unexpected turn.
    By 1964, Worthington was 35 years old and back in the minor leagues. Many players at that stage are contemplating retirement. Instead, the Twins purchased his contract from the Reds organization and gave him another opportunity. It turned out to be one of the better under-the-radar moves in franchise history.
    From 1964 through 1969, Worthington became a bullpen cornerstone for Minnesota. He won 37 games, recorded 88 saves, and posted four consecutive seasons with an ERA below 3.00. His finest season came in 1965 when he went 10-7 with 14 saves and a sparkling 2.14 ERA across 62 appearances.
    That season, the Twins captured their first American League pennant and advanced to the World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Worthington delivered four scoreless innings during the series, allowing only an unearned run despite Minnesota ultimately falling in seven games.
    The right-hander remained a valuable contributor through the end of the decade, including a final postseason appearance during the Twins' 1969 American League Championship Series run. By the time he retired after the 1969 season, he had established himself as one of the most effective relievers in franchise history.
    Although the save did not become an official Major League Baseball statistic until the final year of his career, Worthington was retroactively credited with 111 saves. He finished his major-league career with a 75-82 record, a 3.09 ERA, 834 strikeouts, and 602 appearances. More than half of those outings ended with him recording the final outs of the game.
    His baseball accomplishments extended well beyond the major leagues. Before reaching the majors, Worthington spent four seasons with the Minneapolis Millers and helped lead the club to the 1955 American Association championship while posting a 19-10 record with 18 complete games. In nine minor-league seasons, he compiled a 98-69 record.
    After retiring as a player at age 40, Worthington dedicated nearly two decades to coaching and administration at what is now Liberty University. From 1973 through 1986, he amassed a 343-189-1 record as the school's baseball coach and later served as athletic director. His contributions earned him induction into both the Liberty University Hall of Fame and the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame.
    In 2010, the Twins recognized his place in franchise history by naming him one of the organization's "50 Greatest Twins." Worthington was the fourth-oldest living former major-league player at the time of his passing and one of the last remaining players who wore a Giants uniform before the franchise relocated to San Francisco.
    For Twins fans, however, his legacy will always be tied to the club's first pennant winner. More than 60 years after arriving in Minnesota as a veteran searching for one last opportunity, Worthington remains one of the most successful bullpen arms the franchise has ever had.
    Cody Christie
    As MLB’s August 3 trade deadline inches closer, the Minnesota Twins continue to occupy baseball's uncomfortable middle ground. They're not out of the race. They're not exactly contenders either.
    At 36-40, Minnesota sits third in the American League Central, 4 1/2 games behind the division-leading Cleveland Guardians and lingering on the outskirts of the Wild Card picture. FanGraphs gives them a 28.7% chance of reaching the postseason, which is enough hope to keep the front office from making any easy decisions over the next six weeks.
    That uncertainty has naturally fueled trade speculation, and one name that continues to generate national attention is Byron Buxton. ESPN recently ranked the top trade candidates ahead of the deadline, placing Buxton second overall behind Detroit ace Tarik Skubal. While ESPN acknowledged the hurdles involved, they still assigned a 30% chance that Buxton could be moved before the deadline.
    There's just one problem with that prediction. Buxton doesn't sound remotely interested.
    When asked by The Athletic about his name surfacing in trade rumors, the Twins center fielder didn't leave much room for interpretation.
    Buxton said, "I don't give a f---."
    He wasn't finished.
    "End of the day, nobody's in my shoes. Nobody can say anything about what I'm going to do. I know what I'm a doing. The only way I'm getting out of here -- they're going to have to come talk to me and tell me something else. Simple as that. ... I ain't said nothing about leaving, nor will I. I'm a Twin."
    That's about as definitive as a player can be. Of course, Buxton has backed up those words before. During the 2025 All-Star festivities, he repeatedly stated his desire to spend his entire career in Minnesota. Every time the topic has surfaced over the last couple of seasons, his answer has remained remarkably consistent.
    He's a Twin, and he wants to stay a Twin. That matters because Buxton isn't just another player with trade value. He controls much of the situation himself.
    The 32-year-old has two seasons remaining after this year on the seven-year, $100 million extension he signed before the 2022 season. More importantly, he possesses a full no-trade clause and reached 10-5 rights earlier this season. Any potential deal would require his approval.
    That's a significant obstacle for rival executives dreaming up blockbuster scenarios. Could Buxton waive that protection under the right circumstances? Sure. Every no-trade clause comes with an asking price. But based on everything he's said publicly, there is currently no indication that he's looking for a way out.
    And from Minnesota's perspective, trading him would be complicated even if they wanted to explore the possibility.
    The Twins already endured a painful teardown last summer when they moved 10 players at the trade deadline. Ownership then followed by trimming approximately $38 million from payroll during the offseason. Asking fans to watch another sell-off while simultaneously moving the most popular player in the organization would be difficult to justify.
    It would also mean parting with one of the best seasons of Buxton's career. Through 64 games, he's batting .270 with 23 home runs and 36 RBIs while once again providing elite defense in center field. When healthy, he's still capable of impacting games in ways very few players can.
    That's why national outlets continue to mention his name. Teams would line up for the opportunity to acquire a player with Buxton's talent. The challenge is that the player himself doesn't seem interested in joining that conversation.
    The Twins still have plenty of time to determine whether they'll buy, sell, or attempt something in between. Their performance over the next six weeks will likely dictate the direction of the deadline. But unless Buxton experiences a dramatic change of heart, the trade rumors surrounding him may be generating far more noise outside Minnesota than inside the clubhouse.
    For now, Buxton's stance remains exactly what it has been for years. He's a Twin. And he seems perfectly happy keeping it that way.
     
    Cody Christie
    When the Twins designated Orlando Arcia for assignment earlier this week, there was at least a chance another club would take a flier on a veteran with nearly a decade of major league experience. Instead, Arcia passed through waivers unclaimed and will remain in the organization.
    According to The Athletic's Dan Hayes, Arcia has accepted an outright assignment to Triple-A St. Paul rather than electing free agency. That keeps a familiar depth piece in Minnesota's system as the club navigates the second half of the season.
    Arcia's latest stint with the Twins lasted just under a month. Minnesota promoted him after reshuffling the infield, a move that coincided with Royce Lewis being sent to Triple-A and Brooks Lee taking over at the hot corner. During his time with the big-league club, Arcia appeared in 19 games and collected 50 plate appearances, posting a .271/.300/.354 slash line with one home run.
    While his major league opportunity was brief, Arcia had done plenty to earn a look. Before his promotion, he was one of St. Paul's most productive hitters, batting .318/.376/.556 with eight home runs in 165 plate appearances for the Saints.
    The 31-year-old has built a lengthy major league résumé over parts of 11 seasons. Arcia carved out a respectable career and enjoyed a resurgence with the Braves, hitting .258/.319/.419 across the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
    Offensive production has been harder to find in recent years. Since the start of 2024, Arcia owns a .217/.265/.338 line in the majors, bringing his career numbers to .240/.292/.369 over more than 3,500 plate appearances.
    His return to St. Paul comes at a useful time for the organization. Top prospect Kaelen Culpepper is currently sidelined with a hip strain, creating regular at-bats in the Saints' infield. Even after Culpepper returns, Arcia provides valuable insurance for a Twins club that has dealt with its share of injuries and roster turnover.
    Minnesota doesn't currently have an obvious opening on the major league roster, but that can change quickly. If another infielder lands on the injured list or the Twins need a more reliable defensive option, Arcia's experience and familiarity with the organization could put him right back on the shuttle between St. Paul and Target Field.
    For now, the Twins keep a veteran depth piece in the fold, and Arcia keeps alive the possibility of adding another chapter to a major league career that has already spanned more than a decade.
     
    Cody Christie
    As the MLB trade deadline inches closer, Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers continues to appear on more and more national trade boards. While much of the focus around the Twins has centered on potential blockbuster conversations involving bigger names, Jeffers may quietly be one of the organization's most valuable short-term trade chips.
    Three prominent MLB insiders recently connected Jeffers to the New York Yankees, a team that entered 2026 believing it had enough catching depth but has instead watched the position become a significant weakness. From Minnesota's perspective, the situation warrants close monitoring.
    The Twins have a difficult decision looming with Jeffers. He is set to reach free agency after the 2026 season, and it seems unlikely for the Twins to extend him. Before landing on the injured list with a broken hamate bone, Jeffers was enjoying arguably the best offensive stretch of his career, batting .295 with seven home runs and 26 RBI in 122 at-bats while posting a remarkable .949 OPS. For a catcher with a career .755 OPS and 75 major league home runs, that production represents a substantial jump.
    National evaluators have taken notice. As part of a recent piece discussing front offices facing pressure, ESPN insider Buster Olney identified Jeffers as a potential target for Yankees general manager Brian Cashman.
    "(Brian) Cashman might also have to deal for one of the better relievers available -- as well as a right-handed hitter, such as Twins catcher Jeffers."
    The Yankees' interest makes plenty of sense. New York expected Austin Wells to take another step forward offensively this season while J.C. Escarra emerged as a capable complementary option. Instead, injuries and underperformance have left the Yankees searching for answers. Wells has struggled to provide consistent production, Escarra remains better suited for a supporting role, and the organization lacks a proven right-handed bat behind the plate. Jeffers checks every box.
    Sports Illustrated's Karl Rasmussen recently argued that the Yankees should aggressively pursue the Twins catcher.
    "The Yankees should look no further than Minnesota's Ryan Jeffers, who has had an excellent season. Jeffers, 29, is a right-handed batter and boasts a .949 OPS and a superb 163 wRC+. He's hit seven home runs—more than Wells and Escarra combined—and is a solid framer behind the plate. A tandem of Jeffers and Wells would be a major upgrade over the current setup in the Bronx, and with Jeffers set to be a free agent this offseason, the Twins should be looking to deal him."
    Rasmussen hits on the main points that the Yankees need offensive help at catcher, and few available options can match Jeffers' combination of power, experience, and defensive competence.
    Former MLB executive Jim Bowden of The Athletic reached a similar conclusion while discussing potential catching upgrades for contenders.
    "However, I think more realistic options include Ryan Jeffers of the Twins (once he gets healthy), Agustín Ramírez of the Marlins, Joey Bart of the Pirates, Carson Kelly of the Cubs, Gabriel Moreno of the Diamondbacks and Keibert Ruiz of the Nationals."
    Bowden's mention of Jeffers comes with an important caveat. The Twins catcher is currently on the injured list, meaning any trade discussions will likely remain preliminary until clubs can evaluate his health upon returning to action. That timing could work in Minnesota's favor.
    If Jeffers returns and continues hitting anywhere near his current pace, the Twins could find themselves with multiple interested suitors. Catching is one of the thinnest positions across baseball, and contenders are always willing to pay a premium for offensive production behind the plate.
    The Yankees are simply the most obvious fit. Beyond their catching concerns, New York is expected to pursue infield upgrades and bullpen help before the deadline. Still, catcher may be the organization's clearest weakness. A healthy Jeffers would immediately become the club's best right-handed catching option and provide lineup balance against left-handed pitching.
    For the Twins, the calculus is more complicated. Minnesota must decide whether they are buyers or sellers. The organization has received strong production from Jeffers throughout his career, but with free agency approaching and catching depth developing throughout the system, moving him could become a realistic consideration if the Twins find themselves in sell mode.
    Whether a deal ultimately materializes remains to be seen. What is increasingly clear, however, is that national insiders continue to arrive at the same conclusion. If the Yankees are shopping for a catcher this summer, Jeffers appears to be near the top of their list. And if the Twins decide to listen, New York may be waiting with the strongest offer.
    Cody Christie
    The calendar may still show weeks remaining before the MLB trade deadline, but rumors are already beginning to swirl around some of baseball's biggest names. One of the latest comes from national insider Jim Bowden, who recently identified Minnesota Twins center fielder Byron Buxton as a potential fit for a Philadelphia Phillies club searching for more offensive firepower.
    Philadelphia's need for outfield help has become increasingly apparent. The Phillies entered the season looking for more production from the outfield, and that urgency intensified after Adolis Garcia suffered an injury that could sideline him for the remainder of the year. The organization has attempted to patch the position by acquiring Derek Hill from the Chicago White Sox, promoting Gabriel Rincones Jr., and utilizing a platoon in right field, but those moves feel more like temporary solutions than championship-caliber answers.
    According to Bowden, rival executives believe Philadelphia is actively exploring the market for a difference-making addition.
    "I'm being told by GMs that the Phillies' front office is on the prowl for an impact outfielder," Bowden wrote.
    That description naturally leads to a short list of players capable of changing a lineup overnight. Bowden mentioned Boston Red Sox outfielders Wilyer Abreu and Jarren Duran as possibilities, but he reserved special praise for Buxton.
    "I think Buxton would be an excellent trade target if he waives his no-trade clause," Bowden wrote.
    From a purely baseball standpoint, the fit is obvious. Buxton has once again reminded everyone why he remains one of the sport's most talented players when healthy. His combination of power, speed, defense, and right-handed thump would address multiple needs for a Phillies lineup that already leans heavily to the left side. Unlike a typical rental acquisition, Buxton would immediately become one of the most dynamic players on Philadelphia's roster.
    Of course, making sense on paper and actually completing a trade are two very different things. The biggest obstacle is Buxton's full no-trade clause. Any potential deal would require not only an agreement between the two front offices but also Buxton's willingness to leave the only organization he has ever known.
    Since making his major league debut in 2015, Buxton has spent his entire career with Minnesota. He has developed into the face of the franchise, endured multiple rebuilding periods, signed a long-term extension, and established deep roots within the organization. Even if the Twins ultimately decide to listen on offers, Buxton would hold significant control over the process. That reality makes the speculation far more complicated than simply identifying a roster fit. 
    Minnesota's position also remains unclear. While the Twins have endured a disappointing season, the organization has not shown any indication that it is actively shopping its franchise center fielder. Trading Buxton would represent far more than moving a productive veteran. It would signal a dramatic shift in organizational direction and likely require a return package capable of reshaping the future of the franchise.
    The Phillies possess one of baseball's better farm systems and have the prospect capital necessary to make a significant offer. However, acquiring a player of Buxton's caliber would almost certainly require Philadelphia to part with premium young talent.
    There is also recent history between these organizations. Last summer, Minnesota and Philadelphia completed multiple notable transactions as the Twins reshaped their roster. The Phillies acquired closer Jhoan Duran in one blockbuster move and later added Harrison Bader to bolster their outfield depth for the stretch run. Those deals helped establish a working relationship between the two front offices, and both teams are familiar with each other's systems and prospect inventories.
    That familiarity could make future conversations easier. Still, landing Buxton would be an entirely different challenge.
    The Phillies may be searching for an impact outfielder, and Buxton may be one of the best available fits if Minnesota ever chooses to engage. Yet between his no-trade protection, his importance to the Twins, and the massive prospect package that would be required, this remains one of the more difficult blockbuster scenarios to envision becoming reality.
    For now, it is a fascinating rumor. Whether it becomes something more will depend on how aggressively Philadelphia pursues an upgrade and whether Minnesota would even consider moving one of the most important players in franchise history.
    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 is roughly a month remaining before the 2026 MLB Draft, and most of the top amateur prospects have already wrapped up their seasons. With the on-field evaluations largely complete, front offices are entering the most challenging phase of the process.
    At this point, the draft becomes less about collecting new information and more about determining organizational preferences. Teams must weigh talent against signability, bonus pool strategy, and long-term upside. It is a complicated balancing act, especially near the top of the draft, where every decision can reshape a farm system.
    In his latest mock draft, Keith Law presented a scenario that would likely have Twins fans sprinting to the podium if it became reality.
    Law projects the White Sox to select catcher Vahn Lackey with the first overall pick. Lackey's stock has steadily climbed throughout the spring, and he has become one of the hottest names in the draft class. His combination of offensive production and defensive value behind the plate has made him a favorite among evaluators. The connection to Minnesota is notable because there has been industry speculation that the Twins have spent considerable time evaluating Lackey as a potential third-overall pick.
    The bigger surprise in Law's mock comes with the second selection. He has the Rays taking Tyler Bell, a player Tampa Bay originally drafted out of high school before he chose the college route. Bell is a talented prospect, but most public draft boards have not consistently placed him among the top three players available. The selection would likely indicate that Tampa Bay is prioritizing bonus pool flexibility, potentially saving money at the top of the draft in order to be aggressive later on.
    If that sequence unfolds, Minnesota would be left with an opportunity that currently feels almost too good to be true. Law has the Twins selecting Roch Cholowsky with the third overall pick. For much of the draft cycle, Cholowsky has been viewed by many evaluators as the favorite to go first overall. He is widely regarded as one of the most complete players in the class, combining a polished offensive profile with the defensive ability to remain at shortstop. Depending on who you ask, he is either the best college shortstop available or the best overall player in the entire draft.
    That is why this mock stands out. Most projections have Cholowsky off the board before Minnesota is on the clock. If he somehow reaches the third pick, it would be difficult to imagine the Twins passing on the opportunity. Talent tends to win out at the top of the draft, and Cholowsky's combination of floor and upside would make him an ideal addition to the organization's long-term plans.
    Of course, Minnesota would still have attractive alternatives available if the board unfolds differently. Texas prep standout Grady Emerson remains one of the most exciting hitters in the class and has generated significant buzz throughout the scouting community. Meanwhile, Jackson Flora has emerged as the top college pitching prospect available and could provide the Twins with another premium talent to consider.
    Both players would represent strong selections at No. 3 overall. Still, if Cholowsky is sitting there when Minnesota is on the clock, the decision could be one of the easiest the organization has made in years.
    The reality is that mock drafts remain educated guesses, and there is still plenty of time for opinions to change before draft day arrives. Teams continue gathering medical information, conducting final meetings, and refining bonus strategies. One unexpected selection can completely alter the board.
    That uncertainty is what makes the MLB Draft so fascinating. Today, Law's projection gives the Twins a dream scenario. Whether that scenario survives the next month of rumors, negotiations, and last-minute adjustments remains to be seen.
    Cody Christie
    The Twins received discouraging news this week when right-hander Cole Sands was pulled off his rehab assignment after experiencing continued issues with his strained right forearm.
    Sands made his first rehab appearance with Triple-A St. Paul on Tuesday, and the outing appeared to be a positive first step toward rejoining Minnesota's bullpen. In one inning, he didn’t allow any hits and struck out one batter on 13 pitches. He had two swinging strikes and three strikes looking. 
    However, his arm did not recover quickly enough afterward to allow him to continue pitching. As a result, the Twins have shut down the rehab assignment and will give him additional time to rest and receive treatment before restarting a throwing program.
    At this point, there is no clear timeline for when Sands could return to the major league roster. Under league rules, the Twins must wait at least a week before he can begin another rehab assignment. Even then, the organization will likely proceed cautiously given the nature of the injury.
    While Sands' traditional numbers do not jump off the page, his absence has been felt. The right-hander owns a 4.63 ERA across 11 2/3 innings this season, but the underlying metrics suggest he was performing better than the results indicated. He maintained a strong strikeout rate and carried a 3.65 SIERA, pointing toward a pitcher whose effectiveness was better than his ERA suggested.
    Looking back, there may have been warning signs before Sands landed on the injured list. His final appearance came against Seattle on April 28 when he surrendered two runs in an outing that lacked the crispness typically seen from him. The quality of his stuff appeared diminished, and the radar gun provided additional evidence that something was wrong.
    Velocity declines are often one of the first indicators of a physical issue. After averaging roughly 95 mph on his fastball during the 2025 season, Sands sat closer to 93.1 mph this year before being sidelined. When forearm discomfort accompanies a noticeable drop in velocity, teams naturally become cautious. That reality makes every step forward in his recovery process meaningful, even if those steps are currently smaller than the Twins had hoped.
    Sands entered the season expected to be a significant contributor in Minnesota's late-inning mix. Few relievers on the roster possess his combination of experience and ability to handle leverage situations. Although his early-season results were inconsistent, the Twins viewed him as an important piece of a bullpen that has spent much of the year searching for consistency.
    Minnesota's relief corps has been in near-constant flux throughout the season as injuries and performance fluctuations have forced the club to shuffle roles. The Twins have received strong contributions from several relievers like Yoendrys Gomez and Anthony Banda, but the group still lacks the stability that teams need over the course of 162-games. 
    Getting Sands healthy remains one of the organization's priorities because his return would provide another trusted arm capable of handling meaningful innings. Until then, the Twins will continue looking for answers while hoping one of their most important bullpen reinforcements can eventually make his way back to Target Field.
    Cody Christie
    The Twins have spent much of the 2026 season searching for answers in the bullpen. On Monday, they added another intriguing arm to the mix, acquiring right-handed reliever Taylor Rashi from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for cash considerations.
    Minnesota had room on its 40-man roster after designating outfielder James Outman for assignment over the weekend, making the move relatively simple from a roster-management standpoint. Rashi also has minor league options remaining, giving the Twins flexibility to stash him at Triple-A St. Paul while evaluating whether he can become a contributor at the major league level.
    The move fits a familiar pattern. Rather than investing heavily in relief pitching, the Twins have spent the season collecting arms with intriguing traits and hoping one or two emerge as reliable options. Earlier additions such as Yoendrys Gómez and Justin Lawrence followed a similar blueprint. Minnesota's front office has taken a quantity-over-certainty approach after dismantling much of its bullpen depth at last year's trade deadline.
    Rashi is the latest name to join that list. At 30 years old, he isn't a traditional prospect, but he has shown enough flashes to warrant attention. Over parts of the last two seasons, Rashi has appeared in 13 major league games, posting a 5.40 ERA while striking out nearly 30% of opposing hitters across 20 innings. The results have been uneven, but the ability to miss bats has remained consistent.
    His work at Triple-A Reno this season has been far more impressive. Rashi owns a sparkling 1.03 ERA in 26 1/3 innings while holding opposing hitters in check throughout the year. He has paired that success with a solid 25.5% strikeout rate, though his tendency to issue walks remains a concern after posting a walk rate near 12%.
    Those command issues, combined with a lack of overpowering velocity, likely explain why Arizona was willing to part ways with him despite dealing with its own bullpen challenges. Rashi's fastball typically sits around 91 mph, well below the league average for modern relievers. Instead of relying on velocity, he attacks hitters with a deep secondary mix that includes a slider, curveball, and splitter.
    For the Twins, the appeal is easy to understand. Minnesota's bullpen has struggled for much of the season and currently ranks among baseball's least effective groups in ERA. While the relief corps has shown improvement during the past month, the underlying numbers still reveal concerns. The Twins continue to battle one of the highest walk rates in the league, creating frequent traffic on the bases and placing additional stress on the pitching staff.
    Recent success stories such as Gómez and Anthony Banda have demonstrated that imperfect relievers can still provide value when deployed correctly. The Twins have leaned heavily into matchup-based bullpen management, searching for favorable situations rather than relying on established late-inning options.
    Rashi now becomes the newest candidate in that experiment. The acquisition is unlikely to generate headlines, and there is no guarantee he ever throws a meaningful inning at Target Field. However, teams rarely build bullpens through blockbuster moves alone. Sometimes a successful relief unit is assembled through a series of small transactions that uncover unexpected contributors.
    The Twins are hoping Rashi becomes the next name on that list.
     
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