Jump to content
If free agency is too rich for your blood, click here for the 35 players most likely to be traded this offseason. ×
Twins Daily
  • Create Account

  • MLB Notes

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

    235 rumors in this category

      Matthew Taylor

      Joe Ryan's recent struggles may not simply be a matter of poor execution.

      According to The Athletic's Dan Hayes, Twins manager Derek Shelton said Ryan left the club in Kansas City to be evaluated by team physician Christopher Camp in Minneapolis. The development comes after Ryan turned in his third consecutive disappointing start following the All-Star break, allowing four earned runs over 5 1/3 innings against the last-place Royals on Tuesday night.

      Over his last three starts, Ryan owns a 9.39 ERA across 15 1/3 innings. While he has developed a reputation for fading in the second half of seasons, this latest update suggests there could be more going on than a typical late-season slump.

      Hayes also reported that Shelton acknowledged the possibility of something physical contributing to Ryan's recent performance.

      "He's frustrated and not able to replicate his delivery...I'm not going to say it's not physical. But we owe it to him and to us to find out what he's feeling and how he's going about it."

      Whether Ryan will require a stint on the injured list remains to be seen, but if he is sidelined, the most logical replacement would be Zebby Matthews. Matthews was optioned to Triple-A St. Paul over the weekend to make room on the active roster for newly acquired starter Dean Kremer, but he would be an obvious candidate to return if another rotation spot opens up.

      Do you think Joe Ryan is dealing with an injury, or is this simply another case of his second-half struggles resurfacing? Leave a comment below and start the conversation!

      Cody Christie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

      Cody Christie

      Joe Ryan is finally getting closer to a return, but the most important part of Tuesday’s rehab start in Omaha won’t necessarily be the results. It will be how he feels. Ryan is scheduled to pitch for Triple-A St. Paul as they begin a road series in Omaha after receiving the all-clear following a brief bullpen session Sunday morning. The right-hander has been on the 15-day injured list since Aug. 6 with a mild left glute strain.

      That injury is likely the cause for Ryan’s second half struggles, but it also gives the Twins an opportunity to reset one of their most important players before the final month of the season.

      The right-hander had struggled through three starts following the All-Star break and acknowledged that he was having difficulty repeating his delivery. That was the bigger concern.

      Ryan wasn't simply getting hit harder than usual. Something didn't look right. His mechanics weren't as consistent, his velocity dipped and the results quickly followed.

      Now, he believes he's moving in the right direction.

      "Facing hitters was the biggest one, right?" Ryan told reporters after Wednesday's live batting practice. "I haven't done that in a second, and then I haven't really done that feeling like I have control over my body and not compensating for a couple, a little bit longer than that. So good to just get out there and feel a little bit more free."

      That feeling of freedom might be the most important statistic for Ryan right now.

      A Dramatic Second-Half Turn

      Ryan looked like an ace during the first half of the season. He posted a sub-3.00 ERA and earned his second All-Star selection, continuing to establish himself as one of the most reliable pieces of Minnesota's rotation.

      Then the calendar flipped. Ryan has allowed 17 runs over his last 15 1/3 innings. He has struck out just 10 of his last 73 opponents. The Twins lost all three of his starts following the All-Star break.

      His fastball told part of the story. Ryan's four-seam fastball averaged just 92.1 mph in his final start before landing on the injured list. That's his lowest average in a start since early May and more than a full mile per hour below his 93.4 mph season average.

      For a pitcher who relies heavily on command and deception, even a small decline in velocity can make a significant difference. When that velocity drop comes alongside trouble repeating a delivery, it becomes much easier to understand why Ryan wasn't producing the same results.

      Another Test for Ryan

      There have been a few warning signs surrounding Ryan's health this season.

      He missed time during Spring Training because of lower back discomfort. In May, he exited a start after just one-third of an inning because of elbow pain. Six days later, he returned to pitch one of his best games of the season. His most recent start before going on the injured list was also pushed back three days because of what was described as arm fatigue. 

      None of those situations necessarily point to one major problem. But taken together, they make Ryan's current recovery more important than simply getting him through a minor-league outing.

      The Twins need to know that Ryan's body is allowing him to execute the delivery he has used so effectively throughout his career. Tuesday's game in Omaha should provide that opportunity.

      The results won't matter nearly as much as the process. Can Ryan repeat his delivery? Does his fastball have its usual life? Can he attack hitters without compensating for his lower body? Most importantly, does he finish the outing feeling like himself?

      Ryan appears to be making progress, and his comments after facing live hitters suggest he finally feels more in control of his body. That's encouraging. Now, the Twins need to see that feeling translate to the mound in Omaha.

       

      Cody Christie

      Spring training schedules can change quickly this time of year, and that is exactly what is happening for Minnesota Twins starter Joe Ryan. Minnesota’s right-hander is departing Twins camp and joining Team USA following the quarterfinal round of the World Baseball Classic. The move comes after Team USA needed to adjust its pitching plans late in the tournament.

      According to a report from Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Ryan will take the roster spot originally held by veteran starter Clayton Kershaw once the quarterfinal stage concludes.

      Team USA’s immediate focus is on its quarterfinal matchup with Team Canada. That game is scheduled for Friday night in Houston. If the Americans advance, they would move on to the semifinal round on Sunday against the winner of the matchup between Team Korea and Team Dominican Republic.

      For Ryan, the next step is to throw a bullpen session on Saturday as part of his normal spring progression. Team USA manager Mark DeRosa confirmed that Ryan is expected to report after the quarterfinal round. That timing would make it extremely difficult for Ryan to be available in Sunday’s semifinal game. Throwing a bullpen on Saturday would effectively rule him out of pitching the following day.

      That leaves one realistic opportunity for Ryan to see game action in the tournament. If Team USA reaches the championship game, he could potentially be available either in relief or as a spot starter, depending on how the pitching situation develops.

      Ryan has made it clear he would love to contribute if the opportunity arises, but the situation remains fluid. At this point, he would be joining the team more as a depth option rather than with a guaranteed role in the rotation.

      Even a small role would be meaningful for the Twins starter. The World Baseball Classic has become one of the sport’s premier international events, and the chance to represent the United States on that stage carries plenty of appeal.

      Of course, Minnesota also has its own calendar to consider. Opening Day for the Twins is approaching quickly, with the club set to begin the season on the road against the Baltimore Orioles on March 26. That leaves roughly two weeks between the end of the Classic and the start of the regular season. If Ryan ends up pitching briefly in relief during the championship game or never appears at all, he should remain on track to start Opening Day in Baltimore.

      However, if he were to start the championship game, the team could adjust its rotation plans. In that case, another Twins pitcher might take the ball for the opener while Ryan would slide back a few days and make his first start later in the series against the Orioles.

      From Minnesota’s perspective, the preference is obviously to have Ryan lined up for the first game of the season. At the same time, the organization understands the significance of the opportunity and has expressed support for his potential participation.

      For now, everything hinges on how Team USA performs in the quarterfinal round. If the Americans keep advancing, Ryan’s spring could suddenly include one of the biggest stages in baseball.

      Cody Christie

      Joe Ryan is headed back to the international stage. The Minnesota Twins right hander will pitch for Team USA in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, continuing a growing résumé that already includes Olympic experience and a rising profile within Major League Baseball.

      This will not be Ryan’s first time wearing the red white and blue. He previously represented Team USA at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, which were ultimately held in 2021 due to the pandemic. That trip came at a memorable point in his career. Ryan was still a member of the Rays organization when the Games began, and he was in Japan when the Twins acquired him in a deadline deal that sent Nelson Cruz to Tampa Bay. By the time Ryan returned stateside, he belonged to a new organization and was on the doorstep of the big leagues.

      Five years later, Ryan is no longer a prospect getting his first taste of the majors. He is an established member of the Twins rotation and one of the more recognizable arms in the American League. His selection for Team USA reflects that progression and also highlights the trust both the national team and the Twins have in his preparation.

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

      For Ryan to participate, the Twins must sign off on his involvement, which suggests confidence in his offseason program and overall workload heading into the 2026 season. That decision carries some added context. Ryan was a first time All Star last season after a dominant first half, but he ran into challenges as the year wore on and his performance dipped in the later months. Allowing him to pitch in meaningful games during March indicates the organization believes he can handle the ramp up and benefit from the competitive environment.

      Ryan is not the only Twin expected to be part of Team USA. Byron Buxton has also been connected to the roster, potentially giving Minnesota multiple representatives on a high profile international stage. For Ryan, the opportunity is both familiar and new, another chance to pitch in pressure situations while adding to a career that has already taken some unexpected and memorable turns.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins received an encouraging update on Joe Ryan’s recovery Monday, but there is still plenty of work to be done before their All-Star right-hander is ready to return to the mound.

      Ryan, who is on the injured list with a mild left glute strain, played catch on flat ground Monday. It was a small step, but it was an important one for a pitcher who has been dealing with physical issues that have impacted both his mechanics and his results since the All-Star break.

      Twins manager Derek Shelton said Ryan’s throwing session was a positive development.

      “I had a brief but very good conversation with him,” Shelton said. “I think we’re going to just have to see how it continues to progress. But the fact that he’s out there throwing is a very encouraging sign. It was flat ground, but he was still playing catch.”

      Ryan is not eligible to return from the injured list until August 20, but the Twins don't appear interested in treating that date as a target. Instead, the organization wants to see how Ryan responds as he progresses through his throwing program.

      Twins general manager Jeremy Zoll echoed Shelton’s optimism while emphasizing the importance of taking a measured approach.

      “We want to make sure we don't try to push him along, and end up on this spiral or hamster wheel,” Zoll said. “We're trying to thread the needle on not having him down too long, so it doesn't require too long of a buildup (to return). But we also want to make sure everything is resolved.”

      That last part is especially important. Ryan hasn't simply been dealing with the glute strain. He has also experienced tightness in his back, and the combination disrupted his mechanics. Once those mechanics became compromised, his performance took a significant downturn.

      Ryan went 0-3 with a 9.39 ERA across three starts following the All-Star break before landing on the injured list. The Twins don't want to see him return simply because he is technically healthy enough to pitch. They need him to feel like himself again.

      “We have to start with that to make sure he feels like that's resolved before being able to progress,” Zoll said. “Obviously these things work all in conjunction. If you feel off physically, it can impact you mechanically and performance-wise. ... First and foremost, we want to get him feeling symptom free to be able to progress.”

      That approach makes sense for a pitcher Minnesota cannot afford to get wrong. Ryan is one of the most important pieces of the Twins' rotation, and his importance only increases as the club tries to remain in the American League playoff picture. Minnesota has already made additions to its pitching staff, but replacing a healthy version of Ryan over the long term is not something the organization can realistically expect to do.

      The good news is that Monday's throwing session represents progress. The bad news is that it is only one step. Ryan still needs to progress to throwing off a mound, build his workload back up and demonstrate that the physical issues that disrupted his mechanics have been resolved. The Twins will need to balance urgency with patience, particularly with the season entering its most important stretch.

      If the Twins are going to stay in the playoff hunt, they need their All-Star starter back. More importantly, they need him back healthy and pitching like the version of Joe Ryan they know he can be. Monday provided a reason for optimism, but the next few weeks will determine whether that optimism turns into a meaningful return.

       

      Cody Christie

      Joe Ryan's return to the Minnesota Twins rotation took another step forward Tuesday afternoon. Nearly two weeks after being placed on the injured list with a mild left glute strain, Ryan climbed back onto the mound at Target Field for his first bullpen session since the injury. The session was brief — just 25 pitches — but it represented a meaningful checkpoint for a Twins rotation that desperately needs reinforcements.

      Ryan left the Twins shortly after his August 4 start against the Kansas City Royals to undergo an MRI. The examination revealed the glute strain, which has kept him sidelined since. While he has been cautious about the injury, Ryan said he has continued throwing regularly because he wanted to keep his arm moving.

      Tuesday marked the first time he tested the injured area from a pitching mound.

      “It’s a step in the right direction for sure,” Ryan said.

      For the Twins, that was exactly what they wanted to see.

      “Very encouraging,” manager Derek Shelton said before Tuesday's game against Atlanta. “He looked free and easy. He’s a very important part of our team. To see him out there and be healthy — (it’s the) first step in the progression to getting him back.”

      Ryan Tests the Glute

      Ryan's bullpen was intentionally limited. He threw 25 pitches, all fastballs and sinkers, as the Twins continued to ease him through the recovery process. The goal wasn't to recreate a normal bullpen session. It was to see how Ryan's body responded to pitching off the mound. So far, so good.

      “I think it’s good to get off the mound and see how we feel,” Ryan said. “Just check in that area and, yeah, just do my job out there.”

      Shelton emphasized that Ryan still has several steps to complete before the Twins can consider activating him. The next bullpen session should include breaking pitches, adding another layer to the physical test.

      “I think anytime a guy’s dealing with an injury, to be able to cross hurdles like that, it’s extremely important,” Shelton said. “We diagnose what we think the situation is. And then we treat it and then we take the step of him getting out on the mound.”

      A Much-Needed Rotation Boost

      Ryan has struggled since returning from the All-Star Game, posting a stretch that included three consecutive losses before the injury. In his final three starts before landing on the IL, he surrendered seven home runs and 16 earned runs across 15 1/3 innings.

      Now, the Twins are hoping the time away allows him to get healthy and return to something closer to the pitcher who earned All-Star honors in both 2025 and 2026. Ryan has gone 6-8 with a 3.65 ERA this season. He also represented the American League in this year's All-Star Game in Philadelphia, throwing a scoreless inning while allowing one hit and striking out two batters in the AL's 4-0 victory.

      Minnesota's rotation has not exactly provided much stability since the All-Star break. Entering Tuesday, Twins starters had posted a 5.81 ERA across 29 games since the break. That ranked 29th in baseball during that stretch. The rotation had also allowed 24 home runs while issuing 59 walks.

      Those numbers make Ryan's progression particularly important. The Twins remain in a crowded American League Wild Card race, and every quality starting pitcher becomes increasingly valuable as the schedule moves toward September. Minnesota doesn't need Ryan to return simply because he's one of its best starters. It needs him because the current rotation needs another reliable arm.

      Ryan's return won't solve every problem facing the Twins, but getting a healthy two-time All-Star back into the rotation could dramatically change their outlook. The first step is now complete. The next few will determine just how quickly Minnesota can get its ace back on a big-league mound.

      Seth Stohs

      After Team USA clinched a spot in the Quarterfinals round of the World Baseball Classic, speculation was that Joe Ryan would replace Clayton Kershaw on the Team USA roster. 

      Following their quarterfinal win over Team Canada on Friday night, Kershaw officially said that he was retiring. It was quickly announced that Blue Jays closer Jeff Hoffman was replacing Kershaw. But it was possible there could still be more moves. On Saturday afternoon, we got confirmation that Joe Ryan will be sticking with the Twins rather than joining Team USA in Miami. 

      Selfishly from the Twins perspective, I think it's a good decision. Since he was slowed to start spring training and is still working his way to be ready near Opening Day, it doesn't make a lot of sense to have him push himself to max effort. Paul Skenes is making the start for the USA in Sunday night's semi-final game against the Dominican Republic. The four pitchers added to the USA roster since pool play have all been relievers. Presumably, Ryan could be lined up to make the start for Team USA in the championship game (if the US gets past the DR).       

      Logan Webb has been tremendous for Team USA this year. In two starts, he has thrown 8 2/3 scoreless innings. He was in a similar situation during the last WBC. He wasn't quite 100% and he was about to make some money, so he didn't pitch.  Likewise, with a strong, healthy 2026 season, Ryan would line himself up for a lucrative extension with the Twins or with another team. 

      Selfishly as a baseball fan, it would have been fun to watch him pitch for Team USA. Think about it. When the Twins traded Nelson Cruz to the Rays in 2021, Ryan (and Simeon Woods Richardson) was in Tokyo, pitching for Team USA in the Olympics. So had he made the decision to go pitch for Team USA, one really couldn't fault him at all. 

      This is one of those scenarios that doesn't necessarily have one right and/or wrong answer.  My hope is simply that Joe Ryan is happy with the choice and then has another All-Star caliber season. 

      Cody Christie

      Twins Territory got some good news on Sunday morning after Joe Ryan underwent an MRI that revealed what can only be described as a best-case outcome.

      Scratched from his scheduled spring training start on Saturday due to lower back tightness, Ryan underwent imaging to determine the severity of the issue. According to Dan Hayes of The Athletic, the MRI showed only inflammation in Ryan’s lower back rather than anything structurally concerning.

      You could sense the relief felt by Twins general manager Jeremy Zoll when he addressed reporters Sunday morning.

      “He’ll be down for a few days here just to let things calm down,” Zoll said. “We’ll progress him as tolerated and don’t envision this impacting his readiness for Opening Day. As of now, we’re just going to take WBC readiness day by day here before we have anything definitive on that front. We’ll see how things go. But overall, this is about as good of news as you could have.”

      In Hayes’ words, this represents a best-case scenario for Ryan and one that should allow him to avoid a lengthy layoff. While the Twins’ exact plan as he works through the inflammation is not yet clear, there’s little reason to believe his availability for Opening Day will ultimately be affected.

      That’s critically important for Minnesota, considering Pablo López is already slated to miss the entire season as he prepares to undergo Tommy John surgery. Losing López from the front of the rotation was a difficult blow on its own. Losing Ryan as well would have been devastating for a pitching staff already leaning heavily on internal depth.

      Ryan figures to be joined in the rotation by Bailey Ober, with the remaining spots likely coming from some combination of Simeon Woods Richardson, Zebby Matthews, Taj Bradley, Mick Abel, and David Festa.

      Ryan’s importance is only magnified by the fact that he’s coming off the best season of his career. A first-time All-Star in 2025, the right-hander posted a 3.42 ERA across 171 innings while making 30 starts and striking out 28.2% of opposing hitters against just a 5.7% walk rate.

      While his availability for next month’s World Baseball Classic remains uncertain, Ryan made it clear he is focused on the immediate rehab process rather than any long-term decisions.

      “The WBC crossed my mind, but I’m not taking anything off the table,” Ryan said. “I’m not really jumping to any conclusions too quickly. I’m just focused on hitting this rehab process and getting through that. Feeling good and I’m excited. It’s all we could ask for.”

      In the shorter term, additional caution around insurance approval across the league could ultimately influence whether Ryan participates internationally. Even if he is unable to suit up, Team USA’s rotation options remain formidable with Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, Logan Webb, Nolan McLean, and Matthew Boyd among the available arms.

      For now, however, the most important takeaway for the Twins is simple. Two days after suffering what looked like a catastrophic loss to their rotation, Minnesota has avoided another one. Ryan may miss a handful of days, but barring any setbacks, the club’s Opening Day plans appear to remain firmly intact.

      Matthew Taylor

      Josh Donaldson has never been shy about sharing his opinion, and the former Minnesota Twins third baseman is making waves with some rather unflattering comments about his former team and the state of Minnesota.

      On a recent episode of his Get It Done League podcast, Donaldson was discussing Jeff Hoffman being traded to the Twins at the deadline and his thoughts on Minnesota as a destination. Donaldson did not exactly give his former home a ringing endorsement.

      "He's going to get to go to Minnesota, where it's 'Minnesota Nice'... people in Minnesota... I don't think they even care about baseball that much... Playing there for two years, I thought it was mediocre at best," Donaldson said.

      Parker Hageman of Twins Daily shared a clip of Donaldson's comments on X, and it quickly generated plenty of engagement from Twins fans, many of whom remember Donaldson's own two-year run in Minnesota quite well.

      Donaldson signed with the Twins as a free agent ahead of the 2020 season and spent two seasons with the club. While he was productive when on the field, posting a .829 OPS, many fans had a sour taste in their mouths over Donaldson's time in Minnesota. Injuries limited him to just 163 games over those two years, and he missed the Twins' 2020 postseason run because of injury.

      Donaldson's tenure in Minnesota was also defined by his personality. He became a polarizing figure among Twins fans, with his attitude, controversial comments and perceived lack of leadership rubbing plenty of people the wrong way.

      After spending the 2022 and 2023 seasons in New York and Milwaukee, Donaldson retired following the 2023 season. He now hosts Get It Done League alongside former teammate and All-Star Russell Martin and veteran broadcaster Arash Madani.

      Now, his comments about Minnesota have given Twins fans another reason to revisit the Donaldson era.

      What do you make of Josh Donaldson's comments? And what is your overall opinion of Donaldson's time with the Twins? Let us know in the comments.

      Cody Christie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

       

      Cody Christie

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

      Steve Drumwright

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

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

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

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

      Cody Christie

      The season-ending elbow injury to Pablo López has forced a reality check for the Twins before the regular season has even begun. With their ace now set to undergo Tommy John surgery, questions about Minnesota’s direction are surfacing once again.

      Appearing Monday on Fair Territory, MLB insider Ken Rosenthal was asked whether López’s absence could impact how the organization approaches trade discussions involving key players such as Byron Buxton and Joe Ryan.

      "I would expect the Twins are going to be sellers, but not just yet," Rosenthal said Monday.

      Rosenthal pointed to the immediate impact López’s injury has on the club’s competitiveness, especially when evaluating how the roster stacks up against the rest of the division.

      "Certainly with losing Pablo Lopez, the team is not as competitive as it might have expected," continued Rosenthal. "But their new ownership, or I should say their shift in control people, to a different Pohlad, he's talking like they want to compete, and he keeps saying that, and he keeps coming out saying, 'We intend to be competitive in the AL Central.' So, I don't expect a trade of either of those players, Ryan or Buxton, to happen this spring."

      Both Buxton and Ryan have remained popular names in trade speculation dating back to last summer’s deadline when Minnesota reshaped much of its roster but ultimately held onto several cornerstone pieces.

      Ryan recently told The Athletic’s Dan Hayes he was "really happy" to still be in Minnesota after the front office opted against dealing López or Buxton earlier in the process. Buxton, meanwhile, has consistently stated his desire to remain with the Twins, even as rumors have continued to circulate.

      “All it takes is for somebody at the top to go to the media: ‘We’re not trading you.' Trade rumors stop," Buxton said recently.

      Ownership, led by controlling owner Tom Pohlad, has been clear in its desire to remain competitive rather than move additional talent. Still, Rosenthal noted that stance may become more difficult to maintain if Minnesota struggles in the standings.

      "Could it happen down the line, by the deadline? Certainly could happen if the Twins don't contend," Rosenthal reasoned. "And I'm still having a hard time seeing how they will contend. Now, they're in the forgiving AL Central. That will help. But the Tigers should be really good. The Guardians always seem to figure it out. The White Sox are improving. And the Royals, they see themselves as a contender as well."

      Rosenthal also referenced last July’s deadline decisions and the inherent risk of holding onto players who could have been moved at peak value.

      “The Twins are a team that, of course, deconstructed in a major way last July at the deadline. You remember all the players that they moved, Correa being the headliner, but a number of others as well, including really their entire bullpen.”

      “At that time, they chose not to trade Joe Ryan, not to trade Pablo Lopez, who was hurt. And the danger when you do that is you’re risking a player or pitcher getting injured or not performing to his previous norms. The Twins, in this case with Pablo Lopez, they were probably going to trade him at the deadline if he was healthy this year.”

      “Joe Ryan might have been a trade candidate and still might be a trade candidate for them at the deadline. They talk about competing. The Twins keep saying, ‘we want to compete, we want to be back in the AL Central mix,’ and all that. Well, they haven’t spent enough money to do that, and now they have this question of their rotation without one of their big premier starters.”

      Whether Minnesota stays the course or pivots later this summer could ultimately depend on how it navigates the first few months of the season without its ace leading the rotation.

      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.

       

      Steve Drumwright

       

      The Minnesota Twins needed a fresh arm after an exhausting day for the bullpen.

      The Twins on Sunday called up left-hander Kendry Rojas from Triple-A St. Paul and sent left-hander Kody Funderburk down to the Saints. The Twins used six relievers following Joe Ryan's six-inning start in Saturday's 2-1 win over the Cleveland Guardians in 11 innings.

      Rojas made his MLB debut April 22, pitching two shutout innings with two hits, three walks and no strikeouts. He was sent back to Triple-A a couple days later. At St. Paul this season, Rojas has made five appearances, including a start, allowing four runs and 14 hits with five walks and 15 strikeouts in 15 innings for a 2.40 ERA.

      Funderburk has been a key part of the Twins' bullpen. He has made 19 appearances covering 16 innings, with 13 walks and 10 strikeouts for a 2.81 ERA.

      Coincidentally, Rojas' debut came as Funderburk was on paternity leave for the birth of his child.

       

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins have spent much of the season searching for answers on the pitching staff. Injuries and inconsistency have forced the organization to move pitchers between the rotation, bullpen, and minor leagues, creating plenty of roster movement along the way.

      Kendry Rojas could soon give the Twins another option. Rojas suffered a mild right oblique strain on August 21 during a start for the St. Paul Saints. He exited after just two innings, creating some concern about whether the injury would end his season. However, general manager Jeremy Zoll provided encouraging news over the weekend.

      Rojas could throw a bullpen session as early as this week, with the Twins hopeful that he can return to game action by the middle of September. There is one significant change coming, though. The organization doesn't expect him to have enough time to build back up as a starting pitcher.

      “Where we're at calendar-wise, not expecting to be able to stretch him back out at this point,” Zoll said. “If he does get back into game action, it'll probably be a two-inning outing for his first go, and we'll go from there.”

      That could still be valuable for the Twins.

      Rojas Has Already Shown Enough

      Rojas has made a strong first impression during his first taste of the major leagues. Across 12 appearances, including four starts, he has posted a 3.34 ERA with 34 strikeouts over 29 2/3 innings. His 26.2% strikeout rate is particularly encouraging. Rojas has shown the ability to miss bats against major-league hitters, and Minnesota has already demonstrated its willingness to use him in different roles.

      The biggest concern has been his control. Rojas has issued 22 walks in his limited major-league sample, resulting in a 16.9% walk rate. That's a number the Twins will want to see improve, especially if he's going to work in shorter outings where free passes can quickly create problems.

      Still, the walk issues haven't been nearly as pronounced throughout his minor-league career (8.3 BB% in 2026). That gives Minnesota some reason to believe the major-league number isn't necessarily representative of what Rojas will become. More importantly, the Twins have already seen that he can provide length.

      Another Multi-Inning Option

      Rojas returned to Triple-A following the trade deadline after Minnesota acquired Jeff Hoffman and added A.J. Minter to its pitching staff. Those additions created some difficult roster decisions, and Rojas ultimately went back to St. Paul.

      He resumed working as a starter, but that role is unlikely to continue if he makes it back to Minnesota this season. Instead, Rojas could become another multi-inning weapon for a pitching staff that has needed plenty of them.

      That type of role would also allow Minnesota to manage his workload carefully. Rather than immediately asking him to handle a starter's workload after an oblique injury, the Twins can ease him back into competition while still getting meaningful innings from his arm.

      September rosters aren't what they used to be, but every healthy arm can matter during the final weeks of a season. The key will be making sure the oblique injury doesn't linger. Rojas has already shown he can handle multiple innings in the majors. If his oblique cooperates, the Twins could see what he looks like in shorter outings where he can amp up his velocity.

      Cody Christie

      Kody Clemens added another accomplishment to an impressive 2026 campaign. The Minnesota Twins infielder was named a finalist for the American League Silver Slugger Award at second base on Thursday, putting him among the league's top offensive performers at his position. He wasn't the only member of the organization receiving recognition, as the Twins were also named one of four finalists for the Offensive Team of the Year award.

      The winners will be announced on November 17. The Silver Slugger Awards have recognized the best offensive players at each position since 1980. Major League managers and coaches determine the winners through voting, although they cannot vote for players on their own teams. The Offensive Team of the Year category was introduced in 2023.

      For Clemens, becoming a finalist represents another milestone in what has been the best offensive season of his major league career.

      A Career Year in Minnesota

      Clemens turned in an impressive campaign for Minnesota, leading all American League second basemen with 27 home runs. He also paced the entire AL with seven triples while posting a .758 OPS. His power production helped make him one of the more productive offensive players at his position.

      The 30-year-old provided several memorable moments throughout the season, but none were bigger than his July 30 walk-off grand slam against the Kansas City Royals.

      Minnesota entered the bottom of the ninth inning trailing by three runs. With two outs, Clemens stepped to the plate and delivered an ultimate grand slam, giving the Twins a dramatic victory. It was the type of moment that highlighted his importance to the lineup and gave Minnesota fans one of the season's most memorable finishes.

      Clemens' journey to becoming a Silver Slugger finalist is also an interesting one. The Twins acquired him from Philadelphia in April 2025 for cash considerations. He arrived as a versatile player capable of filling multiple positions, but his offensive contributions helped him carve out a larger role in Minnesota.

      Now, he finds himself competing for one of baseball's most recognizable individual offensive honors. Clemens is joined among the American League second-base finalists by Chicago White Sox infielder Chase Meidroth, who posted a .765 OPS with 16 home runs.

      Twins Offense Earns Team Recognition

      Clemens wasn't the only reason for celebration when the Silver Slugger finalists were announced. Minnesota was also named one of four American League finalists for the Offensive Team of the Year award.

      The Astros, Rays and White Sox joined the Twins on the list. Each club brought something different to the table offensively. Houston led all of baseball with 226 home runs, while Tampa Bay posted the American League's best team batting average at .258.

      Chicago led the AL in another important category, scoring 776 runs during the season. Minnesota wasn't far behind, finishing with 739 runs scored. That total tied the Twins with the New York Yankees for second in the American League. The Twins' presence among the finalists shows that their offensive production extended well beyond one player. Clemens provided power from the middle infield, but Minnesota received contributions throughout its lineup to finish near the top of the league in run production.

      The team nomination also gives the Twins another opportunity to receive recognition for their 2026 performance. Minnesota will have representation in both the individual second-base category and the team award when the winners are announced. Whether Clemens takes home an individual Silver Slugger or the Twins win Offensive Team of the Year, Thursday's announcement provides another positive moment for an organization looking to build on its offensive production heading into 2027.

      Steve Drumwright

       

      As expected, the initial Kendry Rojas era was a brief one.

      The 23-year-old, Twins Daily's No. 8 prospect, was returned to Triple-A St. Paul as fellow left-hander Kody Funderburk returned from paternity leave.

      We have made the following roster moves:

      [image or embed]

      — Minnesota Twins (@twinsbaseball.bsky.social) April 24, 2026 at 9:43 AM

      Rojas was called up Tuesday and made his MLB debut in Wednesday's 3-2 loss to the New York Mets. He pitched two scoreless innings, allowing two hits and three walks with no strikeouts. Overall, a solid outing, especially for a debut.

      Rojas was part of the package the Twins got from the Toronto Blue Jays for right-handed reliever Louis Varland and first baseman Ty France.

      Funderburk's wife, Alicia, gave birth to the couple's first child, a daughter, Monday, a day off for the team.

       

      Matthew Lenz

      Derek Shelton, hired earlier in the week, has made his first move as Minnesota Twins manager locking down the teams new bullpen coach.

      Dan Hayes of The Athletic is reporting that the teams are naming LaTroy Hawkins for the role.

      There may be no one more qualified for the role as Hawkins pitched across 21 major league seasons, accumulating 944 career relief appearances. Initially a starting pitcher with the Twins, he transitioned to the bullpen permanently in 2000. Hawkins recorded 127 career saves with 11 different teams in his career. Given his longevity, he filled many different bullpen roles in his career, most notably finding success in a setup role.

      Since retiring following the 2015 season, Hawkins is stayed busy in professional baseball. He served as a special assistant in the Twins' front office in 2016 and had maintained that role through the 2025 season. He has taken on coaching roles with USA Baseball, including serving as the pitching coach for the 18U National Team in 2023. Additionally, he has been a part-time analyst for Twins television broadcasts since 2017.

      What do you think of the hire? Let us know in the comments!

       

       

      Peter Labuza

      In the hours before the trade deadline, rumors swirled around a trade that would send Angels shortstop Zack Neto to the Minnesota Twins. That didn't happen. Thanks to Bob Nightengale at the Star Tribune, we now know that price included top prospect Walker Jenkins among other names.

      Neto was considered a highly valued piece at the trade deadline. Though Neto has had a relative down year, he has had three consecutive 20-home run seasons and will likely make 20 steals (also his third season in a row). While the defense grades below average, Neto could have likely had defensive versatility for the Twins.

      But asking for Jenkins was almost certainly a bridge too far for the team. There was certainly a case for trading Kaelen Culpepper - using Neto as a bridge to quickly rising prospect Marek Houston - but the young outfielder Jenkins remains a centerpiece for Minnesota's future. As Nightengale reported, talks never got too far in part due to Jenkins' inclusion.

      Jenkins is currently batting .297 / .388 / .493 and was likely due for a callup if Trevor Larnach had been traded. With Larnach staying put, it is unclear when to expect the Twins' top prospect to be roaming Target Field. 

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins continued reshaping their pitching staff on Tuesday, announcing that right-hander Austin Voth has been designated for assignment while left-handed prospect Kendry Rojas was optioned back to Triple-A St. Paul. Taking their places on the active roster are left-hander Kody Funderburk and right-hander Marco Raya, who is set to make his major league debut.

      For Raya, the move represents the culmination of a development path that has been anything but conventional.

      Raya Finally Gets the Call

      Since selecting Raya out of a Texas high school in the fourth round of the 2020 MLB Draft, the Twins have viewed him as one of the organization's most intriguing pitching prospects. His combination of athleticism, arm talent, and advanced feel for pitching allowed Minnesota to move him aggressively through the minor league system.

      At the same time, the organization carefully monitored his workload, often limiting innings while still challenging him with aggressive promotions. That balancing act pushed Raya to Triple-A at just 21 years old in 2024, but his development as a starter eventually stalled against more advanced competition.

      Rather than continue forcing the issue, Minnesota shifted Raya into a relief role last season. The transition has paid dividends. While his overall 2026 numbers don't immediately jump off the page, they don't tell the full story. Raya owns a 5.54 ERA and 1.26 WHIP at Triple-A St. Paul, but nearly all of that damage came during a disastrous April. Opposing hitters posted a 1.129 OPS against him during the season's opening month, and his ERA ballooned to 11.68.

      Since then, Raya has looked like a completely different pitcher. Over the last 28 days, the right-hander has posted a 1.64 ERA with a microscopic 0.64 WHIP across 11 innings. Perhaps most encouraging has been his command. Raya has struck out 11 hitters during that stretch without issuing a single walk. The Twins are clearly betting that version of Raya can help a bullpen that continues searching for reliable innings.

      Rojas Returns to St. Paul

      Rojas' stay in the majors was brief. The young left-hander started Monday night's game against the Dodgers and worked two innings before turning the game over to the bullpen. While the Twins remain high on the talented southpaw, the move back to Triple-A gives the Twins fresh arms for the bullpen. 

      Given Minnesota's recent pitching injuries and constant roster shuffling, it would hardly be surprising to see Rojas back in Minneapolis before long.

      Voth's Twins Tenure Ends Quickly

      Voth's time with Minnesota lasted just one appearance and it was clear during last night’s game that the Twins were going to keep throwing him out there with the game already lost. 

      After signing a minor league contract with the Twins late last month, the veteran right-hander earned a promotion to the major league roster earlier this week. He was immediately thrown into a difficult assignment against one of baseball's most dangerous lineups.

      Tasked with covering multiple innings after Rojas exited Monday's game, Voth surrendered five earned runs on 11 hits and a walk across four innings against the Dodgers. The outing pushed his season ERA even higher, but it doesn't fully reflect the veteran's recent track record.

      Voth entered 2026 with a career 4.70 ERA across 360 1/3 major league innings and was effective as recently as 2024, when he posted a 3.69 ERA in 61 innings for the Seattle Mariners. He also spent last season pitching for the Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball, where he logged a respectable 3.96 ERA over 125 innings.

      Even this year, Voth pitched well at Triple-A between the Blue Jays and Twins organizations, compiling a 3.65 ERA across 11 starts before receiving another big league opportunity. Unfortunately for him, the results in the majors never followed. Between Toronto and Minnesota, Voth allowed 11 earned runs over just 10 major league innings in 2026.

      What Happens Next?

      The Twins now have seven days to resolve Voth's DFA. During that period they can attempt to trade him, place him on outright waivers, or release him. If Voth clears waivers, he has enough service time to reject an outright assignment and elect free agency.

      For Minnesota, however, the bigger story is Raya. After six years in the organization, a role change, and plenty of ups and downs along the way, one of the Twins' longest-tenured pitching prospects has finally arrived. Now comes the next challenge: proving he belongs.

      Cody Christie

      The Minnesota Twins are losing another piece of organizational pitching depth. The New York Mets have claimed right-handed pitcher Jack Anderson off waivers, according to MLB.com's Anthony DiComo. Anderson had not previously been reported as removed from Minnesota's 40-man roster, but the Twins evidently designated him for assignment and exposed him to waivers in recent days.

      Anderson's departure comes during one of the busiest stretches of the offseason transaction calendar. Teams are beginning to make difficult decisions about their 40-man rosters, and fringe players are often the first to feel the pressure.

      November 2nd marks the deadline for the 60-day injured list to go away, forcing teams to find room for players returning to the 40-man roster. The next major date arrives November 17, when organizations must protect eligible prospects from the Rule 5 Draft. Those upcoming decisions leave limited room for players who haven't established themselves as regular contributors at the major league level. For Minnesota, Anderson became expendable as the organization prepares for those roster decisions.

      A Short Minnesota Stint

      This marks the second time Anderson has been claimed off waivers during the 2026 season. He began the year in the Boston Red Sox organization and made his major league debut in April. His opportunity with Boston was brief, appearing in three games before being sent back to the minors.

      Boston eventually placed Anderson on waivers in July, allowing Minnesota to bring him into its organization. The Twins moved him between Triple-A and the big league roster throughout the remainder of the season, giving him occasional opportunities to contribute to the pitching staff.

      Anderson's major league numbers were encouraging in a limited sample. Across seven appearances, he allowed three earned runs in 12 1/3 innings. Those results gave Minnesota a useful depth option, although his limited experience made it difficult to determine what kind of role he could handle over a full season.

      Anderson has also demonstrated some versatility in the minor leagues. He has worked as both a starter and reliever, accumulating 180 innings across the 2025 and 2026 seasons. During that stretch, he posted a 4.75 ERA while striking out 23.3% of opposing hitters and walking just 6.7%. The strikeout numbers aren't particularly overwhelming, but his ability to limit walks could make him an intriguing organizational option.

      Another Bullpen Depth Piece Moves On

      The Mets have some flexibility with Anderson because he still has multiple minor league option years remaining. That gives New York the opportunity to keep him as organizational depth without immediately committing a spot in its major league bullpen.

      Anderson could spend much of next season at Triple-A, waiting for an opportunity when the Mets need another arm. His experience working in different roles could also make him useful when injuries or workload concerns create openings on the pitching staff. There is also the possibility New York eventually exposes Anderson to waivers again. If he clears, the Mets could potentially retain him as non-roster pitching depth.

      For the Twins, this is another example of how quickly the edges of a 40-man roster can change during the offseason. Anderson showed some promise during his brief time in Minnesota, but the organization evidently believes other players deserve those roster spots heading into the winter.

      With the Rule 5 Draft deadline approaching, Minnesota will have plenty of additional decisions to make. Anderson is moving on, and the Twins can now focus on which players they want to protect for the future.

      Matthew Lenz

      It's unclear how Derek Shelton will handle the various coaches who are still under contract with the Minnesota Twins, such as pitching coach Pete Maki and hitting coach Matt Borgschulte. However, the Miami Marlins made one decision for him by poaching a coach from the hitting staff.

      Christina De Nicola, who covers the Miami Marlins for MLB.com, is reporting that the team has hired Corbin Day, whose title was "advanced scout, run production" with the Minnesota Twins in 2025.

      Prior to his role with the big league club, Day was hired as the High-A Cedar Rapids hitting coach before being promoted to the Double-A Wichita staff.

      How do you think this will impact the Minnesota Twins moving forward? Share your thoughts in the comments!

      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.

×
×
  • Create New...