I mostly agree with you. I have had no expectations all year that this Twins team is a playoff caliber outfit, and I still feel that way. They might scratch and claw their way into a WC spot by hook and by crook, but that would be a little unexpected fun -- and only possible in a year where most of the league has struggled to reach .500.
However, as we begin to look ahead to 2027 and beyond, I'm optimistic about the Twins' trajectory. Much depends on Ryan's rejuvenation, full recoveries by Pablo, Abel and Festa, and big steps in command/control by guys like Prielipp, Rojas and Matthews. But there's some hope that we can be MUCH better than we have been this year. Especially with a couple of strategic FA signings and a trade or 2 from our prospect capital.