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  • Minnesota Twins Trade & Free Agent Rumors

    Follow the latest Minnesota Twins trade and free agent rumors, along with quick notes on the big league club, the minor leagues and the draft.
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    Steve Drumwright
    As teams get set to attack the offseason, the Minnesota Twins have lost one of their pitchers.
    Right-handed reliever Eric Orze was claimed off waivers by the Chicago Cubs on Monday. That takes the Twins' 40-man roster down to 37 as free agency is set to kick off at 4 p.m. CT.
    Orze was acquired last offseason in a trade for minor-league right-hander Jacob Kisting. Orze spent the first half of the season on the Twins' roster, appearing in 36 games and 41⅓ innings, putting up a 3.34 FIP but 5.66 ERA with an 11.1% walk rate and 19% strikeout rate. He was then sent to Triple-A St. Paul, where he had a 2.35 ERA in 19 games and 23 innings.
    The 29-year-old has a 4.68 ERA over 71 games and 84⅔ innings with the Twins, Rays and New York Mets in the last three seasons.
    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.
    Cody Christie
    Minnesota baseball lost one of its hometown connections last week. George Thomas , a former major-league utility player who wrapped up his professional playing career with the Minnesota Twins, died on October 23, 2026, at the age of 88. Although Thomas spent most of his big-league career with other organizations, his baseball journey eventually brought him back to Minnesota.
    Thomas was a standout at Bloomington High School before continuing his playing career at the University of Minnesota. His performance caught the attention of professional scouts, and the Detroit Tigers signed him in 1957 with a $25,000 bonus. It would take some time for him to establish himself in the major leagues, particularly after serving in the Army, but he eventually found his opportunity.
    The expansion Los Angeles Angels gave Thomas a chance to become an everyday contributor in 1961. He made the most of that opportunity, hitting .280 with 13 home runs across 79 games. His defensive versatility also became apparent, as he saw regular playing time in both the outfield and at third base.
    Thomas returned to Detroit through a midseason trade in 1963. The following year proved to be his best offensive season, as he established career highs with a .286 batting average and 12 home runs. His production dropped in 1965, and the Tigers eventually dealt him to the Boston Red Sox.
    Boston became an important chapter in Thomas's career. Rather than serving as an everyday starter, he developed into a dependable bench option who could provide defensive flexibility and contribute offensively when called upon. His value extended beyond the box score, making him a useful presence in the clubhouse.
    One of the highlights of his career came with Boston's 1967 team. The club captured the American League pennant and advanced to the World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals. Thomas appeared in 65 games that season, even making an appearance behind the plate. He also saw action during the World Series.
    His final seasons in Boston included some impressive offensive numbers despite limited opportunities. Thomas hit .353 in 1969 and followed that performance with a .343 average in 1970. Over 685 major-league games, he finished with a .255 batting average, 46 home runs, and 202 RBIs. He also demonstrated remarkable versatility, playing every position except pitcher.
    Finishing His Career in Minnesota
    Thomas's final major-league stop brought him back to where his baseball journey began. The Red Sox released him on June 28, 1971, and the Twins quickly signed him. Minnesota used him primarily as a pinch-hitter and reserve left fielder. In 23 games, he collected eight hits in 30 at-bats for a .267 average, adding a double, two RBIs, and four walks. His final appearance came on September 6 against the Chicago White Sox. The Twins released him on October 27, officially ending his 13-year major-league career.
    Thomas wasn't finished contributing to Minnesota baseball, however. He returned to the University of Minnesota as an assistant coach in 1972 and eventually took over as head coach in 1979. During his three seasons leading the Golden Gophers, his teams compiled a 95-43 record. His 1981 squad captured a Big Ten division championship and earned a trip to the NCAA tournament. The university continues to recognize his legacy through the George Thomas Most Improved Player Award, presented in his honor.
    Thomas may not be among the most recognizable names in Twins history, but his story connects several important pieces of Minnesota baseball. He was a local player who reached the major leagues, contributed to a memorable Boston team, and eventually finished his playing career with his hometown organization. His return to the University of Minnesota allowed him to leave another lasting mark on the state's baseball community.
     
    Cody Christie
    The Minnesota Twins made a pair of expected decisions as the offseason officially gets underway. According to The Athletic’s Dan Hayes, the club declined its side of mutual options for starting pitcher Joe Ryan and first baseman Josh Bell, allowing both players to enter the next phase of their respective contract situations.
    While neither decision comes as a major surprise, the two players have very different paths forward. Ryan remains under team control for another season, while Bell is free to explore opportunities with other organizations.
    Joe Ryan Remains Under Team Control
    Minnesota declined its portion of a $13 million mutual option with Ryan. However, this doesn't mean the right-hander is headed to free agency just yet. He remains arbitration-eligible for one more season before becoming a free agent following the 2027 campaign. MLB Trade Rumors projects Ryan to earn $9.6 million through arbitration. That would represent a significant salary increase, but it would still give Minnesota a relatively affordable opportunity to retain one of its most important starting pitchers.
    Ryan has established himself as a reliable rotation presence since making his major league debut in 2021. His combination of strike-throwing ability, swing-and-miss stuff, and willingness to attack hitters has made him an important part of Minnesota's pitching staff.
    He also brings considerable value because of his ability to miss bats. Ryan's fastball and splitter combination has helped him become one of the more recognizable pitchers in the organization's rotation. His consistency has made him a valuable trade asset, and his name has surfaced in discussions about Minnesota potentially reshaping its roster.
    Ryan experienced some ups and downs during the 2026 season. He was particularly effective during the first half, posting a 3.17 ERA and 1.01 WHIP. However, his performance dipped after the All-Star break, when he recorded a 4.99 ERA and 1.22 WHIP.
    That second-half performance adds another layer to Minnesota's decision-making process. The Twins have to determine whether Ryan fits into their plans for 2027 or whether his remaining year of team control makes this an appropriate time to explore his trade value.
    Either way, declining the mutual option doesn't close the door on Ryan returning to Minnesota. The arbitration process gives the organization another opportunity to keep him in the rotation without committing to a long-term contract.
    Josh Bell Heads to Free Agency
    Minnesota also declined its option on the $10 million mutual option with Bell, making the veteran first baseman a free agent. Bell signed a one-year contract last offseason that guaranteed him $7 million. The mutual option gave both sides the opportunity to continue the relationship in 2027, but neither had much incentive to exercise it. Bell walks away with his $5.5 million salary, a $250,000 signing bonus, and a $1.25 million buyout.
    There wasn't anything particularly earth-shattering about his 2026 performance. Across 154 games, Bell hit .255 with a .738 OPS. He endured another slow start before finishing with a 106 OPS+, putting him slightly above league-average offensive production.
    Bell launched 21 home runs, just one shy of his 2025 total. He has remained a fairly consistent offensive contributor since 2023, making him a potentially attractive option for teams seeking an experienced first baseman or designated hitter. Now 34, Bell posted 0.7 fWAR in 2026. FanGraphs valued that production at approximately $5.6 million, making another short-term contract a reasonable possibility.
    Two Different Offseason Paths
    The Twins' decisions create flexibility without necessarily signaling the end of their relationship with Ryan. He remains an important piece of the 2027 rotation, although his trade value could make him an intriguing offseason conversation.
    Bell's departure is more straightforward. Minnesota can look elsewhere for first-base production while Bell searches for another opportunity. Neither mutual option was particularly appealing for the organization, making these decisions relatively easy ways to begin the offseason.
    Cody Christie
    Deron Johnson did not stay unemployed for very long. The former Minnesota Twins scouting director is joining the New York Mets as a special assignment scout, according to The Athletic’s Will Sammon. The move brings Johnson back together with Derek Falvey, who joined the Mets in September as a senior advisor to baseball operations.
    Johnson recently parted ways with the Twins after the organization eliminated his senior advisor position. His departure ended a 32 year run with Minnesota, where he worked in nearly every area of the scouting department and helped oversee several amateur drafts. Now, Johnson will have an opportunity to continue his scouting career with another organization looking to improve its baseball operations department.
    A Long History in Minnesota
    Johnson originally joined the Twins in January 1994 as an area scout covering Northern California. He worked his way through the organization, eventually becoming the club’s West Coast supervisor before receiving a promotion to scouting director in September 2007.
    He held that position through the 2016 season, overseeing nine amateur drafts. During that stretch, Minnesota selected several first round picks who generated significant attention within the organization.
    The Twins selected Aaron Hicks with the 14th overall pick in 2008, Johnson’s first draft as scouting director. Four years later, Minnesota made Byron Buxton the second overall selection in the 2012 draft. Other notable first round picks during Johnson’s tenure included Kohl Stewart, Nick Gordon and Tyler Jay.
    The results varied among those selections, but Johnson played a significant role in evaluating and acquiring amateur talent during an important period in the franchise’s history. Scouting directors must balance immediate needs with long term organizational planning, and their decisions can influence a team’s roster for years.
    Following the 2016 season, the Twins moved Johnson into a senior advisor role. Although he was no longer leading the amateur scouting department, he continued evaluating players and contributing to professional, international and minor league scouting efforts.
    That experience should provide a useful foundation for his next position in New York. The Mets have not publicly outlined the specific responsibilities Johnson will handle as a special assignment scout, but his decades of experience give the organization another veteran evaluator.
    Reunited With Falvey
    Johnson’s hiring also creates a familiar connection within the Mets organization. Falvey served as Minnesota’s top baseball operations executive for nearly a decade before the two sides mutually agreed to part ways in January 2026. The Mets hired Falvey on September 24, naming him senior advisor to baseball operations. He reports directly to president of baseball operations David Stearns, adding another experienced voice to the organization’s decision making process.
    Falvey and Johnson worked together in Minnesota for years, giving the Mets an opportunity to bring in someone familiar with the former Twins executive’s approach to building a baseball organization. For Minnesota, Johnson’s departure represents another change as the club continues reshaping its baseball operations department. His position was eliminated as the organization looked toward the 2027 season, ending a tenure that began more than three decades ago.
    Johnson’s time in Minnesota included multiple front office roles, nine drafts as scouting director and years of additional work behind the scenes. His next chapter will take him to New York, where he will continue evaluating talent alongside a familiar face from his long career with the Twins.
    Cody Christie
    Rocco Baldelli will not be the next manager of the Seattle Mariners. The former Minnesota Twins skipper has withdrawn from consideration for the position, leaving another managerial opening without one of its reported candidates.
    According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, Baldelli removed himself from Seattle’s search because of “family considerations.” The decision comes one year after the Twins dismissed him following a disappointing 2025 campaign and raises questions about when he might return to a major league dugout.
    For Twins fans, the news provides another reminder of a manager whose tenure included both considerable success and a frustrating conclusion. Baldelli is currently working as a special assistant to Los Angeles Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman. He spent the 2026 season in that front office after managing Minnesota for seven seasons.
    Looking Back at Baldelli’s Twins Tenure
    The Twins hired Baldelli before the 2019 season, and he immediately helped transform the team into a contender. Minnesota won 101 games in his first season, setting a franchise record for victories and earning Baldelli American League Manager of the Year honors.
    That season established a pattern of regular-season success. Baldelli guided the Twins to three American League Central titles and three postseason appearances during his time in Minnesota. The club finished with a 527-505 regular-season record under his leadership.
    His tenure also included a long-awaited postseason breakthrough. Minnesota swept the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2023 American League Wild Card Series, earning its first playoff series victory since 2002. However, the Twins could not sustain that momentum. A September collapse in 2024 cost the team another postseason opportunity, and the club finished 70-92 in 2025.
    The final season became especially difficult after Minnesota dismantled much of its roster at the trade deadline. The organization traded numerous established players as it shifted its focus, leaving Baldelli to manage a depleted team through the end of the campaign. The Twins dismissed him after the season, ending a seven-year run that featured division titles, postseason disappointment and significant organizational changes.
    Is Baldelli Done Managing?
    Baldelli's decision to withdraw from Seattle's search does not necessarily mean he has abandoned the idea of managing again. After Minnesota dismissed him, he expressed interest in returning to a dugout while also acknowledging the importance of spending time with his family.
    Taking a front-office position with the Dodgers allowed him to remain connected to baseball without immediately jumping into another demanding managerial job. His experience with Minnesota, including his emphasis on analytics, defense and communication, could still appeal to organizations seeking a new direction.
    Seattle had emerged as a potential landing spot. The Mariners are looking for a replacement for Dan Wilson after finishing the 2026 season with a 76-86 record. Former Houston Astros manager Joe Espada and Chicago Cubs director of player development Jason Kanzler have also been reported as candidates.
    Baldelli's withdrawal removes a recognizable name from Seattle's search, but it leaves his own baseball future open. Whether he pursues another managerial opportunity this offseason or remains with the Dodgers, his next move will be worth watching in Minnesota.
    For the Twins, Baldelli's departure marked the end of an era. His latest decision offers no immediate change for the organization, but it keeps the former manager's name in the conversation as teams across baseball look for leadership ahead of 2027.
     
    Cody Christie
    Minnesota's bullpen took a hit late in the 2026 season when Jeff Hoffman landed on the injured list, and the veteran reliever is now addressing the issue with an offseason procedure. Aaron Gleeman reported on the latest episode of Gleeman and the Geek that Hoffman is undergoing a minor elbow cleanup procedure, likely related to bone spurs or bone chips.
    Although any procedure involving a pitcher's throwing arm is worth monitoring, the early indications suggest the injury is not a significant concern for the Twins as they prepare for the 2027 season.
    Hoffman Shut Down Late in the Season
    At the end of September, Minnesota placed Hoffman on the 15-day injured list with right forearm inflammation. The move came after the reliever acknowledged that he was not recovering between outings as well as he would have liked.
    Hoffman struggled in his final appearance during the Twins' last road trip, pitching in San Francisco. Rather than continue pushing through the discomfort, he and the organization decided it was best to shut him down for the remainder of the season.
    At the time, Hoffman expressed little concern about the injury. He believed rest would help resolve the problem and expected to follow a normal offseason schedule. He also indicated that there were no issues involving the elbow joint or ligaments, providing some reassurance about the nature of the injury.
    The reported cleanup procedure appears consistent with Hoffman's earlier comments. Bone spurs or loose bone fragments can create discomfort and interfere with a pitcher's recovery, making a minor procedure a reasonable step toward getting him ready for another season. The exact details of the procedure have not been fully outlined, however, so the Twins will have to evaluate his recovery before determining whether any adjustments to his offseason throwing program are necessary.
    A Valuable Bullpen Addition
    Minnesota acquired Hoffman from the Toronto Blue Jays ahead of the August 3 trade deadline, hoping the 2024 All-Star could provide another reliable option in high-leverage situations. The right-hander delivered on that expectation during his limited time with the club.
    Hoffman posted a 2.50 ERA and struck out 27 batters across 18 innings with Minnesota. Those numbers represented an encouraging return from a pitcher brought in to help stabilize the late innings during the second half of the season.
    His performance also gives the Twins a reason to feel optimistic about their bullpen heading into 2027. Relief pitching can be unpredictable, and Minnesota will need multiple dependable options if it hopes to improve its postseason chances. Hoffman demonstrated that he could handle important situations and miss bats against major league hitters.
    The late-season injury interrupted that progress, but the initial reports do not suggest that the Twins should expect a lengthy absence extending into next season.
    What It Means for 2027
    Hoffman is under contract with Minnesota for 2027 and projects to be one of the team's top relievers. With the organization looking to build a more competitive roster, retaining dependable bullpen arms will be an important part of the offseason plan. The Twins still have plenty of questions to answer about their overall relief corps. Hoffman's presence gives them a potential foundation, provided he returns to full strength and performs near the level he showed after the trade.
    For now, the reported elbow cleanup appears to be more of an offseason maintenance issue than a major setback. Minnesota will undoubtedly monitor Hoffman's recovery, but his expectation of a normal offseason offers some encouragement. The Twins acquired Hoffman to strengthen their bullpen for the stretch run and beyond. If the procedure allows him to enter spring training without lingering discomfort, he should remain an important piece of the team's plans for 2027.
     
    Cody Christie
    Mitch Garver has decided to call it a career after parts of 10 seasons in Major League Baseball. The former Minnesota Twins catcher spent time with the Twins, Texas Rangers, and Seattle Mariners, finishing his career with 110 home runs and a reputation as an offensive threat when healthy. His retirement closes the book on a career that included an award-winning season in Minnesota and a World Series championship in Texas.
    The Twins selected Garver in the ninth round of the 2013 MLB Draft out of the University of New Mexico. He consistently hit well in the minor leagues, but questions surrounded his ability to handle the defensive responsibilities of catching at the major league level. By the end of 2016, Minnesota had seen enough potential to add him to its 40-man roster and protect him from the Rule 5 Draft.
    Garver debuted with the Twins in 2017 but struggled to produce at the plate. He hit .196/.288/.348 without a home run in 52 plate appearances. The following season offered a glimpse of what was to come, as he launched seven home runs and posted a .268/.335/.414 slash line.
    Garver's breakout season arrived in 2019. As part of Minnesota's famous Bomba Squad, he hit 31 home runs in just 93 games and 359 plate appearances. His .273/.365/.630 line was good for a 155 wRC+, meaning he produced offensively at a rate 55% better than league average. He also earned a Silver Slugger Award, recognizing him as one of the American League's top offensive catchers.
    The 2019 season is remembered for its historic home run totals and the baseball used throughout the league. Still, Garver's production was impressive regardless of the environment. Catchers rarely deliver the same offensive output as players at other positions, making his power particularly valuable to Minnesota's lineup.
    Unfortunately, staying on the field became a recurring challenge. An intercostal strain limited Garver to 23 games during the shortened 2020 season, and he struggled offensively when available. Injuries again restricted his playing time in 2021, but he remained productive, hitting 13 home runs with a .256/.358/.517 slash line and a 139 wRC+ in 243 plate appearances.
    The emergence of Ryan Jeffers gave Minnesota another catching option and made Garver expendable before the 2022 season. The Twins traded him to Texas in exchange for Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Ronny Henriquez. The following day, Minnesota sent Kiner-Falefa, Josh Donaldson, and Ben Rortvedt to the New York Yankees for Gary Sánchez and Gio Urshela.
    Garver's time in Texas provided another career highlight. He became part of the Rangers' 2023 World Series championship team, hitting .270/.370/.500 in 87 games during the regular season. He then signed a two-year, $24 million contract with Seattle before the 2024 season, but his offensive production declined. The Mariners released him in August 2026, and he later signed a minor league contract with the Yankees without appearing in another major league game.
    Garver finishes his career with a .229/.325/.432 slash line and 110 home runs. He collected 497 hits, scored 301 runs, and drove in 324. FanGraphs credited him with eight wins above replacement, while Baseball-Reference lists approximately 10.0 WAR. His career earnings totaled just under $35 million.
    Garver's career never followed a straight path. Injuries interrupted promising seasons, and his defensive limitations sometimes complicated his role. However, his offensive peak with the Twins remains memorable, particularly during the historic 2019 campaign. He leaves the game with a Silver Slugger Award, a World Series ring, and a place in the story of one of Minnesota's most entertaining teams.
    Cody Christie
    Pablo López did not take the mound for the Minnesota Twins in 2026, but his impact on the organization and its community continues to earn recognition. The right-hander has received another significant honor, this time as a finalist for one of the Major League Baseball Players Association’s most meaningful awards.
    The nomination adds to a growing list of honors for López during a season in which he was unable to contribute on the field. Last month, the Twins selected him as their nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, recognizing his commitment to community service and charitable work. It marked the third consecutive season Minnesota nominated López for the award and the fourth time overall the organization recognized him for his community contributions.
    On Wednesday, the MLBPA announced the finalists for its annual Players Choice Awards. López was named one of three finalists for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award, joining Chris Bassitt and Nico Hoerner. The award recognizes the influence players can have through leadership, service, and their ability to inspire others.
    Recognizing Leadership
    The Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award is presented to the player “whose leadership most inspires others to higher levels of achievement.” Named after the MLBPA’s first full-time executive director, the award honors a legacy of leadership and advocacy for major league players.
    Miller served as executive director from 1966 to 1982 and played a central role in transforming the relationship between players and team ownership. His influence extended well beyond the baseball field, making the award particularly fitting for players who use their positions to make a difference in their communities and within the game. Miller was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2021.
    Unlike awards determined by media members or front-office personnel, the Players Choice Awards are voted on by the players themselves. First presented in 1992, the awards recognize excellence both on and off the field, including individual performance, leadership, perseverance, and community impact.
    That peer-driven selection process makes López’s nomination especially noteworthy. Being recognized by fellow major leaguers reflects the respect he has earned from people who understand the demands of the sport and the responsibilities that come with playing at its highest level.
    A Meaningful Season Away From the Field
    For Minnesota, López’s 2026 season has been defined by his absence from the rotation. However, an injury preventing him from pitching has not erased his standing within the organization or diminished the attention surrounding his off-field contributions.
    The Twins have repeatedly highlighted López’s community involvement through their Roberto Clemente Award nominations. His latest recognition from the MLBPA reinforces that his value to the organization extends beyond his work as a starting pitcher.
    López has established himself as an important voice in Minnesota’s clubhouse, and leadership can take on added significance during a season when a player cannot contribute between the lines. His nomination places him alongside Bassitt and Hoerner, two players also recognized for their leadership. The winners of this year’s Players Choice Awards are scheduled to be announced during the week of October 26. 
    The Twins will eventually need López back on the mound to help lead their pitching staff. In the meantime, his continued recognition is a reminder that a player's influence is not measured solely by innings pitched, strikeouts, or wins. Even in a season without an on-field role, López remains a prominent representative of the organization.
    Cody Christie
    Brooks Lee has earned a spot among the American League’s best defensive players. The Minnesota Twins infielder was named one of three finalists for the 2026 Rawlings Gold Glove Award at third base on Wednesday. Lee is joined by Boston Red Sox infielder Caleb Durbin and Kansas City Royals infielder Nick Loftin. The winners will be announced on ESPN on Sunday, November 1.
    Lee's nomination is particularly impressive considering how his defensive season began. After spending most of his first two big-league seasons at shortstop, he struggled at the position again in 2026. A move across the infield helped change his season, turning a potential defensive liability into a player receiving recognition for his work with the glove.
    A Position Change Makes a Difference
    Lee entered professional baseball as a shortstop and continued to receive opportunities at the position after reaching the majors. However, the early returns were not encouraging. He finished both 2024 and 2025 with a minus-3 Fielding Run Value (FRV), a Statcast metric that measures a defender's contribution compared with an average player.
    The struggles continued into 2026. Lee posted -6 Outs Above Average (OAA) in limited action at shortstop, making it difficult for the Twins to justify keeping him there as his primary position. The club needed to find a better defensive fit for the young infielder.
    Third base provided that opportunity. Lee excelled after moving to the hot corner, recording +6 OAA during the 2026 season. The improvement was substantial, especially when compared with his previous results at shortstop. 
    The position change also gave the Twins a clearer picture of Lee's potential moving forward. His defensive performance at third base suggests he could become a long-term option at the position, provided he continues to build on the progress he made this season.
    A Difficult Competition
    Lee's Gold Glove candidacy comes with some formidable competition. Durbin appears to be the favorite after an impressive defensive campaign with Boston. At the most recent SABR Defensive Index update, Durbin posted an 8.8 SDI, nearly three times Loftin's mark in second place. Durbin also recorded plus-6 FRV and plus-6 OAA at third base. Those numbers give him a compelling case to take home the award.
    Loftin is another worthy finalist, making this a competitive group. Lee's nomination, however, represents an important milestone in his development. After entering the season with questions about his defense, he established himself as a credible candidate for one of baseball's most recognized individual defensive awards.
    Twins manager Derek Shelton has expressed confidence that Lee can become a Gold Glove winner at third base. This season's finalist selection offers evidence that such an outcome is realistic.
    The next step could be giving Lee a full season at third base in 2027. A consistent role would allow him to continue developing his instincts, improve his familiarity with the position, and demonstrate that his defensive success can be sustained over an entire campaign.
    Lee might not win his first Gold Glove this year, particularly with Durbin's strong credentials. Still, becoming a finalist is a significant achievement for a player whose season began with defensive concerns.
    Cody Christie
    The 2026 season did not end where the Minnesota Twins wanted it to, but the organization still has five players receiving recognition from Major League Baseball as All-MLB Team nominees. Kody Clemens, Brooks Lee, Ryan Jeffers, Byron Buxton, and Taj Bradley are all on the ballot. Fans can vote once per day at MLB.com through Friday, October 9, giving Twins fans an opportunity to make their voices heard and reward several players who made significant contributions during the season.
    Clemens was one of the year's biggest surprises. He appeared in 145 games and provided a power boost that few could have predicted, launching 27 home runs and driving in 81 runs. His ability to move around the diamond also made him a valuable piece of the roster. Lee supplied plenty of power of his own. The young infielder hit 24 home runs with 83 RBI while batting .253 over 156 games. He spent 110 games at third base, continuing to establish himself as an important part of Minnesota's future.
    Bradley arguably has the strongest case among the five nominees. Acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays at the 2025 trade deadline, he took another step forward in his first full season with Minnesota. Bradley went 12-6 with a 3.73 ERA and 205 strikeouts across 178 1/3 innings in 31 starts. He also established personal bests in several categories while becoming a dependable piece of the Twins' rotation.
    Jeffers and Buxton were two of Minnesota's most valuable players when healthy. Jeffers hit .256 with a .353 on-base percentage, 14 home runs and 56 RBI in just 92 games. His season was interrupted by a broken left hamate bone that kept him on the injured list from May 19 until July 10, making his production even more impressive.
    Buxton hit 25 home runs and posted an .830 OPS in 93 games. Unfortunately, his season ended prematurely because of a right hip impingement, and he has not played since late August.
    How the Voting Works
    The All-MLB Team includes a first team and second team, with each featuring a catcher, every infield position, three outfielders, a designated hitter, five starting pitchers and two relief pitchers. Selections are made without regard to league.
    Fans and a panel consisting of media members, broadcasters, former players and other officials each have an equal say in the final results. The winners will be announced November 11 at the MLB Awards in Las Vegas.
    Cody Christie
    Taylor Rogers has already experienced just about everything a reliever can encounter during an 11-year major league career. He has been an All-Star, changed teams multiple times, and, most recently, returned to Minnesota as a veteran presence in a young bullpen. Apparently, he isn't ready to call it quits.
    Rogers plans to continue pitching in 2027, which would be his age-36 season. According to the Minnesota Star Tribune's Bobby Nightengale, Rogers would prefer to remain with the Twins if the opportunity is there. His other preferred destination would be Toronto, where he could reunite with his twin brother, Tyler, in the Blue Jays' bullpen.
    That gives Minnesota something worth considering this offseason. Rogers signed a one-year, $2 million contract with the Twins last winter after spending four seasons bouncing between five different organizations. His return didn't produce the dominant results he had during his first stint in Minnesota, but he remained a useful piece for a club that desperately needed veteran stability in its bullpen.
    The results were fairly ordinary. Rogers posted a 4.33 ERA across 60 1/3 innings while striking out just 19.6% of opposing hitters and walking 11.2%. Both his strikeout rate and 34.6% ground-ball rate were career lows.
    There were some encouraging numbers hidden underneath those results, though. Rogers allowed hard contact at an exceptionally low rate. His 28% hard-hit rate was the best mark of his career and ranked in the 98th percentile among MLB pitchers. He also surrendered only five home runs, producing the lowest home-run rate of his career. He was better suited for lower-leverage work rather than the late-inning role he once occupied.
    That doesn't necessarily make him expendable. Rogers also became one of the veteran voices in Minnesota's bullpen. LaTroy Hawkins specifically praised his mentorship of younger pitchers, and Rogers even helped Hawkins during the former All-Star's first season as a major league coach. There is also a familiarity factor. Rogers knows the organization, has a relationship with manager Derek Shelton and clearly remains comfortable in Minnesota.
    If the Twins can bring him back for something close to his previous $2 million salary, it could work for both the team and the player. Rogers may not be the dominant closer he once was, but experienced left-handed depth, clubhouse leadership and a low-cost contract could all be useful for a bullpen that needs reinforcements.
    Sometimes the easiest offseason decision is simply keeping someone who already knows where everything is.
    Cody Christie
    Liam Hendriks announced his retirement this week after a 14-year Major League career that included three All-Star selections, back-to-back AL Reliever of the Year awards, and a remarkable comeback from cancer. For the Minnesota Twins, however, Hendriks’ retirement also offers a reminder of what might have been.
    The Twins signed Hendriks as an international free agent in 2007, and the Australian right-hander eventually reached the majors with Minnesota in 2011. Unfortunately, the version of Hendriks the Twins saw was not the one who would eventually become one of baseball’s best relievers.
    From 2011 through 2014, Hendriks bounced between the Twins, Royals, and Blue Jays while making 39 appearances, including 34 starts. Across 188 2/3 innings, he posted a 5.92 ERA. Minnesota eventually moved on, and Hendriks continued searching for a role that would unlock his considerable talent.
    That answer came in Toronto. In 2015, the Blue Jays moved Hendriks into the bullpen full-time. The results were immediate. He posted a 2.92 ERA with a 27.2% strikeout rate and a 4.2% walk rate across 64 2/3 innings. Suddenly, the pitcher who had struggled to establish himself as a starter looked like a legitimate weapon coming out of the bullpen.
    The Blue Jays traded him to Oakland that offseason, and Hendriks eventually developed into one of the premier closers in the sport. From 2019-20, he posted a 1.79 ERA with a 38% strikeout rate and a 5.7% walk rate over 110 1/3 innings.
    That success earned Hendriks a three-year, $54 million contract with the White Sox before the 2021 season. He rewarded Chicago by becoming an elite closer and earning consecutive All-Star selections. He would make three All-Star teams overall and win AL Reliever of the Year honors in both 2020 and 2021.
    Of course, Hendriks' career became about much more than baseball. He battled non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2023, returned to the mound later that season, and won AL Comeback Player of the Year. Tommy John surgery and additional elbow problems eventually limited his ability to continue his career.
    Hendriks finishes with a 3.88 career ERA, a 26.7% strikeout rate and 6.0% walk rate over 663 2/3 innings. As a reliever, he posted a 3.16 ERA.
    For the Twins, there is an obvious what-if attached to Hendriks' career. Minnesota had the pitcher first. What it never found was the role that allowed him to thrive.
    Hendriks needed a move to the bullpen to become the pitcher he was always capable of being. The Twins never gave him that opportunity before moving on, leaving them to watch from afar as their former international signing developed into an All-Star closer.
    His career ultimately became a remarkable story of perseverance, reinvention and resilience. For Minnesota, it also remains a reminder that sometimes the biggest challenge isn't finding talent. It's figuring out where that talent belongs.
     
    Cody Christie
    The Minnesota Twins have dealt with their share of injuries throughout the 2026 season, but the organization expects most of those players to be back at full strength when spring training begins.
    General manager Jeremy Zoll provided an encouraging update Tuesday, saying nearly every injured player on the roster should be ready for the start of camp. That group includes veterans Byron Buxton and Pablo López, along with top prospect Walker Jenkins.
    Jenkins is scheduled to undergo arthroscopic surgery Wednesday to address an ongoing issue with his right elbow. Zoll explained that the problem has been something Jenkins has dealt with for several years, making the offseason an ideal opportunity to finally address it.
    "He's been dealing with a cranky right elbow on and off for three or four years at this point," Zoll said. "He's gonna get a procedure tomorrow to clean up bone chips and bone spur and he'll be full go for 2027. Gonna take advantage of the offseason to get that all squared away for Walker."
    That timeline should allow Jenkins to enter the 2027 season without the lingering elbow issue that has followed him throughout his development.
    Jenkins, the organization's top prospect, made his major-league debut in late August after tearing through the minor leagues. He quickly found himself in an important role, taking over in center field while Buxton dealt with his own injury.
    The transition to the majors was not an easy one. Jenkins hit just .089 with one home run through his first 16 games, with that homer coming against a position player. Those early struggles were understandable for a young player adjusting to the highest level, but Jenkins showed why the Twins have been so excited about his long-term potential by turning things around before the season ended.
    Over his final 10 games, Jenkins hit .400 while adding three home runs, five RBIs and nine runs scored. That strong finish gives the Twins something positive to build on heading into the offseason. Jenkins now has a taste of the major leagues and a chance to spend the winter preparing for his first full big-league season.
    The elbow procedure adds another item to his offseason checklist, but Zoll's comments suggest the Twins are approaching it as a chance to eliminate a lingering problem rather than something expected to derail Jenkins' preparation.
    If everything goes according to plan, Jenkins should arrive at spring training healthy and ready to compete for a prominent role in Minnesota's 2027 lineup.
    Cody Christie
    Ryan Jeffers has spent his entire professional career in the Twins organization, dating back to Minnesota selecting him in the second round of the 2018 MLB Draft. After nearly a decade with the organization, though, the veteran catcher could be approaching the end of his time in Minnesota.
    Jeffers is not closing the door on a return. In fact, he made it clear that he would welcome the opportunity to stay with the only organization he has known. At the same time, he wants to experience free agency and find out what opportunities exist beyond Minnesota.
    “I’ve worked too hard to corner myself into one team or two teams,” Jeffers said Sunday, via The Athletic’s Dan Hayes. “I love the idea of a reunion. I also love the idea of going out there and seeing what else is out there.”
    There should be plenty of interest. Jeffers enters the offseason as arguably the top catcher on the free-agent market and one of the better offensive players available at the position. Since his breakout 2023 season, he has posted a 119 wRC+ across 1,632 plate appearances. That ranks eighth among catchers during that stretch.
    His 2026 season was particularly encouraging considering the circumstances. A hamate fracture suffered in May cost Jeffers roughly two months and limited him to 92 games. Despite the lost time, he hit .256/.353/.461 with 14 home runs in 368 plate appearances.
    More importantly, several underlying numbers moved in the right direction. Jeffers posted career-best strikeout and walk rates, striking out in just 17.9% of his plate appearances while walking 12.5% of the time. His 128 wRC+ means he was 28% better than the league-average hitter, while the average MLB catcher finished at just 91.
    The defensive questions remain. Jeffers has generally been a below-average defensive catcher, and 2026 followed that trend. He caught only 10.6% of potential base stealers and ranked in the 37th percentile as a pitch framer. He performed well with ABS challenges, finishing 12th among 107 catchers in Overturns Vs. Expected.
    Now the Twins must decide whether Jeffers is worth a $23.1 million qualifying offer. The decision will come shortly after the World Series, and Hayes reports Jeffers is unlikely to accept it.
    That could leave Minnesota with Victor Caratini as its most experienced catcher heading into 2027. Vahn Lackey, the third overall pick in the 2026 draft, represents the organization's long-term answer, but he is probably still a couple of years away. If Jeffers leaves, the Twins could look for a short-term veteran through free agency or trade. Several experienced catchers, including Tyler Stephenson, Austin Hedges, Jonah Heim, James McCann and former Twin Christian Vázquez, could be available.
    For now, Jeffers is keeping both possibilities open. After spending his entire career in Minnesota, he has earned the opportunity to see what the rest of baseball thinks he is worth.
     
    Steve Drumwright
    The Minnesota Twins are shaking up their pitching staff from a leadership perspective.
    Pitching coach Pete Maki and assistant pitching coach Luis Ramirez will not return to the Twins for 2027. It is not known whether one or either was under contract for next season. One more change is athletic trainer Jason Kirkman will not return after seven seasons with the franchise.
    No other changes are expected to the Twins' coaching staff.
    Maki took over as the Twins' pitching coach in July 2022 following the sudden departure of Wes Johnson, who became the pitching coach in college at LSU. Maki had been in the Twins' organization since 2018 in a variety of roles and was on the major-league staff when the 2022 change happened.
    Ramirez has been in the org since 2006, spending the last five years of his 21-year tenure as the major-league assistant pitching coach.
    The Twins finished 25th this season in ERA at 4.56 in what was expected to be a rebuilding season, particularly in the bullpen, but with a handful of quality returning starters led by Joe Ryan and Pablo Lopez. They finished 24th in ERA in 2025 (4.55) and 21st in 2024 (4.26) after ranking sixth in 2023 (3.87).
     
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