Cody Christie

Byron Buxton’s 2025 resurgence continues to pay dividends, and this time, the spotlight is coming from the international stage. According to reporter Francys Romero, Buxton has been included on Team USA’s preliminary roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. While preliminary rosters are not final, this early nod signals how dramatically his status has shifted in the eyes of evaluators across baseball. The 2026 World Baseball Classic is scheduled for 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. After that, quarterfinals will be split between Miami and Houston before the tournament returns to Miami for the semifinals and championship round. It will be the sixth edition of the tournament, and Japan will enter as the defending champions after winning the 2023 event. For Buxton and the Twins, the timing of this recognition could not be better. It was not long ago that the idea of Buxton participating in the WBC would have been dismissed immediately. During the previous edition of the tournament the Twins were protective of their star center fielder as he worked to prepare his body for the upcoming season. The focus then was strictly on building the foundation for a healthy year rather than adding competitive innings in March. Everything changed last year. Buxton delivered the most complete season of his career, rewriting personal bests across the board and reminding fans of the superstar talent he brings when healthy. He set career highs in home runs with 35, runs batted in with 83, and runs scored with 97. He also reached new marks in walks, plate appearances, and at bats while surpassing 120 games played for only the second time in his eleven major league seasons. His .264 batting average, .327 on base percentage, and .551 slugging percentage added up to an impressive .878 OPS and a 136 OPS plus. The season culminated with his first career Silver Slugger Award and a renewed belief that he could still elevate his game even further. That level of production combined with his elite athleticism makes Buxton an enticing fit for Team USA’s roster construction. More importantly for Minnesota, his inclusion on the preliminary list suggests that other evaluators share the Twins confidence in his health and long term outlook. Participating in the WBC would give Buxton a chance to showcase his abilities on one of the sport’s biggest stages while entering the regular season with competitive momentum. While the final Team USA roster will not be set for some time, Buxton’s presence on the early list stands as another milestone in his return to form. For the Twins, it is the latest reminder of how valuable a fully operational Buxton can be. View full rumor

Image courtesy of © Brett Davis-Imagn Images The MLB Draft Lottery arrives on Tuesday at 4:30 PM Central, and the Minnesota Twins enter with the second-best odds to land the first overall selection. It should be a moment of optimism. It should be the kind of scenario where a franchise dreams of future superstars. But this is Minnesota, and hope is more of a seasonal rental than a long-term investment. In a search for any possible edge, the Twins reportedly reached out to the Minnesota Timberwolves to learn how they once navigated NBA Draft Lottery night. The goal was simple. The Twins wanted the MLB version of Anthony Edwards or Karl Anthony Towns. Unfortunately, the Wolves sent advice from a different era—one that Twins leadership quickly realized should have been left in the vault. Derek Falvey admitted the team was simply looking for any insight that might help them avoid the standard Minnesota drop on lottery night. “We thought they would walk us through the Anthony Edwards process,” Falvey said. “Next thing we know, they're showing us grainy footage of the David Kahn years. I called the room to an immediate halt when someone said the phrase 'dual point guard theory'.” Initially, the Twins were hoping to build off their own success, since they vaulted from the projected 13th overall pick to the 5th overall pick in MLB’s inaugural lottery, conducted in 2022 ahead of the 2023 Draft. That jump allowed Minnesota to land Walker Jenkins, who has been the organization’s top prospect ever since. But instead of championing good fortune, the Wolves insisted on teaching the principles of accidental chaos. Tim Connelly was reportedly confused by the request, but still tried to offer what he called “institutional wisdom.” “The old files are what they are. If your scouts believe in the baseball equivalent of Jonny Flynn, you cannot let public pressure stop you," Connelly said. "You have to ignore everything and take the shortstop who won the dunk contest at his high school pep rally.” At one point, a Wolves staffer offered a laminated sheet titled: “Approaches That Definitely Do Not Work Anymore.” The Twins say it included handwritten notes on drafting players who share agents, searching for prospects with the best smile, and selecting multiple identical skill sets because it looks cool on paper. A Twins analytics employee reportedly fainted after reading the final line, which read simply, “Trust your gut, even if the numbers beg you not to.” Falvey tried to remain polite as the meeting spiraled. “We kept waiting for the moment when they explained how they got Edwards,” Falvey said. “Instead, they kept telling us that if two prospects look the same, the correct answer is drafting both. I am not sure that translates to baseball. Also, someone tried to argue that swing decisions are overrated. I am pretty confident that is not true.” The Twins attempted to redirect the meeting by asking how the Wolves avoided lottery heartbreak in recent years. “We traded all our picks for Rudy Gobert," Connelly said. "It really simplifies lottery night.” Falvey reportedly wrote the phrase down and circled it 17 times. Still, the Twins are hoping luck will remain on their side. The organization knows how dramatically fortunes can shift, just as they did the year Minnesota jumped to fifth with no expectations and landed Jenkins. Falvey remained hopeful, despite the questionable guidance. “We still love our odds and our process,” he said. “We are just choosing to forget everything we heard today.” By the end of the consultation, the Twins promised to send the Wolves a fruit basket. The Wolves suggested including two identical baskets because “sometimes you just take both and let the future sort it out.” The Twins left Target Center immediately. Now, Minnesota waits to see if the lottery gods reward their bold curiosity or punish them for taking advice from the one franchise that accidentally taught an entire city what could go wrong on draft night. View full article

Image courtesy of © Matt Blewett-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins enter Tuesday’s MLB Draft Lottery with the second-best odds at securing the No. 1 overall pick, and they are guaranteed to select in the top 10 for the 2026 MLB Draft. It's a rare opportunity for a club that has spent most of the past decade trying to compete while still building internally. Any time a front office gets access to elite amateur talent, the stakes rise. Minnesota’s recent history with premium picks shows promise in some places, frustration in others, and plenty of room for debate, as the club prepares for what could be a franchise-shaping selection. Here’s a look back at Minnesota’s recent track record with top-10 picks and how those players have developed in the team’s farm system. 2023 MLB Draft: OF Walker Jenkins (5th Overall Pick) Minnesota used the fifth overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft on outfielder Jenkins, and his rapid rise through the system has earned him national attention. In many other draft classes, he likely would have been the first overall pick. Few prospects reach Triple A as 20-year-olds, and players who do often develop into above-average big-league regulars. Jenkins has shown advanced bat speed and a mature approach, but he is still an unfinished product. Last season, he posted a 135 wRC+ in 84 games. There are no guarantees in prospect development, though, and the Twins will need patience as he adjusts to the highest levels of the minors. His trajectory is encouraging, but stardom is not yet assured. 2022 MLB Draft: SS Brooks Lee (8th Overall Pick) One year before Jenkins, the Twins grabbed college shortstop Lee with the eighth overall pick. His plus hit tool turned him into one of the fastest-moving prospects in baseball, and helped him reach the major leagues ahead of schedule. Minnesota pushed him to Triple-A St. Paul in his first full professional season, and he made his MLB debut in 2024. That intriguingly natural feel for hitting has yet to translate to production in his early MLB returns. Over the last two seasons, Lee has posted a 75 OPS+ in 189 games. He's slated to open next season as Minnesota’s starting shortstop, and that comes with pressure on both sides of the ball. The organization still believes his approach and swing will win out in the long run, but it is fair to say he has been more frustrating than fulfilling so far. His upcoming season may be one of the most critical individual storylines on the roster. 2017 MLB Draft: SS Royce Lewis (1st Overall) Lewis was Derek Falvey’s first premium draft choice as chief of Twins baseball operations, when they selected him first overall in 2017. The Twins took Lewis over a group that included Hunter Greene, Brendan McKay, and MacKenzie Gore, ultimately signing him to an underslot deal to distribute additional money to the rest of the class. For stretches, that decision looked brilliant. Lewis has flashed superstar ability, launching big home runs and showcasing a dynamic skill set that few players can match. The trouble, of course, is that injuries and inconsistent playing time have made it difficult for the Twins to view him as their long-term anchor. Last season, he played in a career-high 106 games but posted an 83 OPS+. Lewis remains a fascinating talent whose next chapter could swing the team’s overall trajectory. Looking Back at the Previous Regime’s Track Record Before the current front office took over, Minnesota went through a stretch of four straight top-10 picks under Terry Ryan. The results were uninspiring, except for one undeniable success story. Tyler Jay, Nick Gordon, and Kohl Stewart were all selected in the top six picks, but none developed into cornerstone players. Gordon provided some big-league value, but not enough to justify his draft spot. Stewart never found traction. Jay moved to the bullpen and battled injuries. Byron Buxton, selected second overall in 2012, became the exception. When healthy, he has played at an MVP level and turned into a franchise icon. Without Buxton’s success, that run of picks would be remembered far more harshly. The MLB Draft remains one of the most unpredictable talent pipelines in sports. Variability in development, wide gaps in competition levels, and the number of professional levels a player must climb after being drafted before getting to the majors all contribute to uncertainty. Still, teams must hit on top-10 picks if they want sustained success—especially teams like Minnesota, who operate with a below-average payroll. Minnesota’s recent record shows both optimism and caution as it prepares for a potentially pivotal selection in 2026. With the lottery approaching and talent evaluations underway, the Twins know this opportunity does not come around often. The true test will be turning a premium pick into a premium player. What stands out about Minnesota’s recent top-10 picks? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

The Boston Red Sox have hovered around Joe Ryan trade rumors for more than a year, but the conversation appears to be cooling. At last season’s trade deadline, Boston was one of several clubs connected to Minnesota’s All Star right hander as the Twins shipped out 10 players, including multiple relievers with years of team control. The speculation even reached the point where a false social media report briefly had Ryan headed to Fenway Park. This winter brought more of the same chatter, though Derek Falvey has repeatedly emphasized that Minnesota intends to build around a core of Ryan, Byron Buxton and Pablo Lopez. Any trade discussion involving those players was always going to require an overwhelming offer, and it seems the Red Sox have decided not to press forward. Rob Bradford of WEEI is reporting that the Red Sox have “drawn back on their pursuit of Joe Ryan.” He also notes, “Connelly Early was never introduced by the Red Sox as part of the trade deadline talks last season." Bradford added a follow up that said that this could still change. Early would have been a huge pick up for the Twins if he was the trade centerpiece. He is ranked as Boston’s number four prospect by MLB Pipeline after posting a 2.60 ERA with a 31.9 K% and a 9.7 BB% across 100 minor league innings last season. He also made his major league debut and performed well in a small sample size (four starts), raising his value even further. While Boston is not the only club with interest in Ryan, their strong farm system made them a logical suitor capable of offering multiple top 100 prospects. For now, though, it appears the Red Sox are stepping aside as the Twins remain committed to keeping their rotation anchored by one of their most dependable arms. View full rumor

Back in August, I wrote about how I think the Pohlads are still going to sell the team but are waiting until the new CBA offers a better financial situation for mid-market teams. An equity firm could be looking at the same situation and seeing and opportunity to make money.

The Minnesota Twins entered the offseason navigating a unique organizational crossroads. After spending much of the past year evaluating a potential sale, the Pohlads abruptly pulled the franchise off the market in August. Instead of changing principal ownership, the club pivoted to bringing in two new minority partners. Reports said that one group would be based locally and the other led by an investor family from the East Coast. Now, the first half of that picture is finally coming into focus. Charley Walters of the Pioneer Press reported the development earlier this week, writing, “Look for Minneapolis based Varde Partners, a worldwide multi billion dollar credit investment corporation, to be announced soon as a limited partner with the Minnesota Twins. The firm is one of at least two limited partners expected to assist in diminishing the team’s reported 500 million dollar debt.” The addition of Varde Partners marks a notable shift in the composition of Twins leadership. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Varde is a global credit and investment firm overseeing an estimated $16 to 17 billion in assets with more than 300 employees across the world. The company is led by managing partners Brad Bauer, Francisco Milone, and Tim Mooney, all of whom bring deep experience in large scale financial strategy and corporate development. Given their background, it is difficult to imagine that Varde Partners will be anything less than a stabilizing force for a franchise navigating a sizable debt load. Their presence alone signals that the Twins are looking for more structured, more sophisticated financial guidance than the current iteration of the Pohlad family has typically leaned on. For an organization supposedly carrying around $500 million in debt, a partner with extensive investment acumen is not a small addition. What remains unclear is how much influence these new partners will wield when it comes to baseball decisions. Minority stakes rarely dictate roster construction, but their involvement does lighten the financial strain on the club. If that reduction in debt eventually leads to more flexibility in retaining talent or supplementing the roster, fans will welcome the impact. At a minimum, the presence of motivated and financially savvy investors should nudge the overall organizational direction toward a more modern and competitive mindset. With one partner now identified, attention naturally turns to the second expected minority owner from the East Coast. If the timing of this first announcement is any indication, that reveal may not be far behind. As the Twins navigate a pivotal offseason, the business side of the franchise is reshaping itself in a way that could have long term implications for the organization’s stability and ambition. View full rumor

Image courtesy of © Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins have spent the early offseason in the thick of speculation, as the industry waits to see how far their teardown will go. Joe Ryan’s name has been tossed around. Byron Buxton rumors refuse to die down. Now, another player has entered the conversation. Ryan Jeffers might not be the most obvious trade chip, but his age, contract status, and offensive growth make him a realistic target for a contender in need of catching stability. For the Philadelphia Phillies, that need might soon become a top priority. Philadelphia is sitting at a crossroads as it approaches 2026. J.T. Realmuto is the premier free-agent catcher on the market and has been everything the Phillies hoped for since the moment he arrived from Miami. Two All-Star appearances and countless big moments frame his reputation as one of the best backstops of his era. The problem is timing. Realmuto is entering his age-35 season, and the Phillies must determine whether to extend their relationship or pivot to a younger, more affordable alternative. There is no internal candidate ready to replace him, which means they will either need to re-sign Realmuto or find a veteran replacement from the outside. The Phillies are juggling more than one significant decision. Kyle Schwarber is also a free agent. He remains one of the top middle-of-the-order bats available. Bringing back both Schwarber and Realmuto would require serious financial gymnastics. Losing Realmuto, however, would require the front office to replace production somewhere else. That is why Philadelphia has closely monitored the catching market. If his market continues to heat up, the Phillies may shift their focus to a trade, and it could lead them to call the Twins about Jeffers. Jeffers is coming off a solid season, wherein he slashed .266/.356/.397 (a 108 OPS+) in 119 games. He continues to provide above-average offensive value at a premium defensive position. Over the past three seasons, he has posted a 113 OPS+ in 1,264 plate appearances, with a 10.8% walk rate boosting his offensive value in 2025. Compared to Realmuto’s expected price tag, Jeffers looks like an efficient alternative, projected to make $6.6 million in arbitration. For Philadelphia, the appeal is clear. Jeffers would stabilize the position while allowing the front office to allocate resources elsewhere. A Jeffers trade would also signal that the Phillies are comfortable passing on Realmuto, which could open the door to retaining Schwarber and left-handed starter Ranger Suárez. If Philadelphia prefers roster flexibility, Jeffers checks a lot of boxes. It's the very kind of move, in fact, that first brought Realmuto to them. Philadelphia traded three players to the Marlins in early 2019 for Realmuto, who had two years of team control remaining at the time. Minnesota’s involvement is also logical. After their trade-deadline fire sale, the Twins have made it clear that virtually every veteran on the roster is available for trade. Their activity with Philadelphia last summer adds another wrinkle. The organizations completed deals involving Jhoan Duran and Harrison Bader, and that familiarity can sometimes streamline negotiations. The Twins know the Phillies’ system well, and Philadelphia has a clear understanding of Minnesota’s priorities as it continues its retool. The proposed return reflects that dynamic. The Phillies could acquire Jeffers, and the Twins could receive multiple prospects in return. A potential package might include left-handed pitcher Mavis Graves (ranked 25th in the system by MLB Pipeline) and catcher Caleb Ricketts (ranked 22nd). Graves pitched all of 2025 at High A and posted a 4.41 ERA, with a 27.7% strikeout rate and a 13.7% walk rate. Ricketts could add catching depth to the Twins’ system, as the 25-year-old posted a 111 wRC+ while reaching Double-A Reading last year. Other players who could be discussed include catcher (and first baseman) Kehden Hettiger, third baseman Carson DeMartini, right-handers Ramon Marquez and Alex McFarlane, and outfielder TJayy Walton. None of these names would headline a blockbuster, but they fit the pattern of depth-focused prospect accumulation the Twins pursued at the deadline. This kind of trade would not grab national headlines the way Ryan or Buxton speculation might, but it speaks to where the Twins currently stand. A controllable catcher with offensive upside will always hold value, and contenders like the Phillies are preparing for significant decisions in the coming weeks. If Philadelphia decides to move on from Realmuto and turn toward a younger option, the path could run straight through Minnesota. In fact, the Twins might even be in position to hold out for a higher price. Does a trade between the Phillies and Twins make sense? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Jerome Miron-Imagn Images The winter meetings arrive every year with a blend of tension and possibility, and the Minnesota Twins find themselves right in the center of that mix. The front office has already signaled a shift in direction with notable trades at last year’s deadline, but the next few days will determine how dramatic this winter truly becomes. With payroll limitations, a clubhouse in transition, and a roster that needs both clarity and talent, these four questions will shape the Twins’ path forward. Will the Twins Trade More Veterans? Minnesota shocked much of the league when it moved key players at the 2025 deadline, and the possibility remains that the front office is not done trimming from the core. Joe Ryan, Pablo Lopez, and Byron Buxton represent the most significant names still drawing outside interest, and each presents a different challenge for the club. Ryan still has two years of team control through arbitration, making him the type of pitcher contenders ask about when they believe the Twins are retooling. There were already rumors about him being traded at the deadline, and he’s coming off an All-Star campaign. Lopez remains Minnesota’s best starting pitcher when healthy, and moving him would signal a complete reset instead of a soft pivot. He is owed the most money over the next two seasons ($43 million), making him a prime trade target. Then there is Buxton, the most complicated name of all. His contract, health history, and elite ceiling create a puzzle that only a few teams might be willing to solve, yet rumors have pointed to him being willing to waive his no-trade clause if the sell-off continues. The winter meetings have a way of accelerating conversations, and if another club is willing to pay for star upside, the Twins could continue reshaping their roster. Will the Team’s New Minority Owners Be Revealed? One of the strangest Twins storylines in recent months has nothing to do with baseball decisions. The club is expected to add two new minority ownership groups, but the details have been surprisingly quiet. The lack of transparency might be expected, but it remains strange that only limited details are available. Winter meetings are traditionally a stage for ownership announcements, branding pushes, and organizational updates. If the Twins intend to introduce their new partners before the 2026 season begins, this week is the ideal moment. The uncertainty has prompted speculation that the agreements are not fully finalized. Either way, clarity would be welcomed by fans eager to understand how these groups will influence future spending and long-term strategy. Will the Twins Sign a Closer? The bullpen is one of the clearest needs on the roster, especially after last summer’s sell-off. Minnesota is not expected to hand out any major long-term deals in free agency, but the club needs stability at the back end of games. The free agent market offers a few realistic options. Kenley Jansen stands out as a name with both experience and history chasing. Sitting 24 saves shy of becoming only the third pitcher in MLB history to reach five hundred career saves, he could find the Twins an appealing landing spot if they provide him with ninth-inning duties. Minnesota could also turn back to familiar faces. Taylor Rogers offers a left-handed veteran presence with strikeout stuff when healthy, while Caleb Thielbar would be a sentimental fit who could thrive in a lower leverage role. A bullpen addition of some kind feels close to inevitable, and the winter meetings could be where that move materializes. Will the Twins Attempt to Upgrade at First Base and DH? Derek Falvey made headlines at the GM Meetings when he suggested that Kody Clemens is in line to be the club’s starting first baseman. That may be the current plan, but it is hard to imagine the Twins entering the season with no improvements to two of the most crucial run-producing spots in the lineup. The organization needs more right-handed power, and the market offers several affordable options. Paul Goldschmidt is no longer the MVP-caliber hitter he once was, but has remained productive and dependable. Josh Bell brings switch-hitting pop that could balance the lineup. Rhys Hoskins would be a particularly strong fit if the Twins prioritize home run potential without breaking the bank. Any of these names would present an upgrade over the current depth chart and help alleviate pressure on Clemens to carry a position with a heavy offensive load. The winter meetings continually shape the offseason, but this year feels especially pivotal for the Twins. Whether they choose to move veterans, reveal ownership updates, fortify the bullpen, or add meaningful offensive help, Minnesota is positioned for a week filled with decisions that will define the next stage of their retooling. One way or another, the franchise will look different by the time the meetings conclude. Will the Twins answer any of these questions at the winter meetings? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of David Malamut, Cedar Rapids Kernels (Photo of Eduardo Tait) The Twins' farm system has undergone significant restructuring in recent years, but the organization remains committed to developing waves of talent to complement the big-league roster. Some years produce star-level prospects while others deliver depth, but Minnesota has consistently found value across the age spectrum. Identifying a top prospect in every age group offers a unique view of how well the system is layered. It also highlights how the Twins continue to invest in both high-end draft picks and international signings, which gives the farm system balance and long-term upside. From teenagers just getting their first taste of professional baseball to pitchers and position players closing in on Target Field, every tier of the system features someone capable of making an impact. This age-based snapshot shows the range of tools, projections, and developmental paths that make the Twins one of the more intriguing organizations to track as their next wave forms. Age 17: INF Haritzon Castillo Castillo is one of the freshest names in the system, but he already carries the look of a fast riser. Signed out of the Dominican Republic, he has impressed evaluators with a fluid swing that produces consistent line drive contact. In 39 games last season, he hit .283/.395/.428 (.823) with 13 extra-base hits and a 117 wRC+. He moves easily in the infield with enough athleticism to project to multiple spots. While he is still years away, his baseball instincts have already put him ahead of most players his age. Other Candidates: INF Santiago Leon, RHP Santiago Castellanos Age 18: SS Quentin Young Minnesota took Young with their second-round pick last July, and he has quickly become one of the most exciting young shortstops in the organization. His combination of smooth defensive actions and emerging offensive impact gives him a strong foundation to build on. He went 2-for-17 in his pro debut, but it was a small sample size. The Twins love his ability to control the strike zone, and the added strength has started to translate into more loud contact. His ceiling is still forming, but the ingredients are all there for a significant leap. Other Candidates: OF Jhomnardo Reyes Age 19: C Eduardo Tait Tait was the top prospect acquired in the Jhoan Duran trade. He is coming off a breakout season in which he showed advanced feel for hitting and surprising pop for his age. In 112 games, he hit .253/.311/.427 (.738) with a 103 wRC+, while being four years younger than the average age of the competition at High-A. His receiving continues to improve, and the Twins believe he can develop into a strong defensive catcher as he matures. The bat is already ahead of schedule, and his balanced approach should allow him to move quickly. Minnesota has needed catching depth, and Tait has positioned himself as a key part of that future. Other Candidates: LHP Dasan Hill, RHP Matt Barr Age 20: OF Walker Jenkins Jenkins remains the centerpiece of the entire system. His five-tool profile and polished plate approach make him one of the top prospects in baseball. Last season, he finished the year at Triple-A and still combined for a 135 wRC+. Even as one of the younger players at his level, he has shown the ability to make adjustments quickly and consistently drive the ball with authority. His overall game continues to trend upward, and he has arguably the highest ceiling of any player to come through the Twins system since Byron Buxton. Other Candidates: RHP Charlee Soto, IF and OF Brandon Winokur Age 21: SS Marek Houston Houston has become one of the more intriguing infielders in the organization thanks to his smooth defensive ability and growing offensive confidence. The Twins took him with the 16th overall pick in last June’s draft and pushed him to High-A in his pro debut while slashing .270/.330/.350 (.680). His range and arm strength allow him to stay at shortstop long term, and the Twins think there is more power to come as his body matures. With a strong work ethic and improved plate discipline, he could take a significant step forward next season. Other Candidates: OF Gabriel Gonzalez, RHP Riley Quick Age 22: SS Kaelen Culpepper Culpepper was the Twins Minor League Player of the Year after he flashed across multiple levels this year with a dynamic skill set. In 113 games, he hit .289/.375/.469 (.844) with a 138 wRC+. He is a reliable defender at shortstop, after questions about his ability to stick at the position during the draft process. His offensive approach continues to tighten with more consistent at-bats. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways keeps him firmly in the conversation as one of the system’s most dependable upper-level infielders. Other Candidates: OF Emmanuel Rodriguez, C Khadim Diaw Age 23: LHP Kendry Rojas Minnesota spoke highly of Rojas when they acquired him as part of the Louis Varland trade. He has emerged as the top left-handed arm in his age group thanks to a sinker and one of the better sliders in the system. In 69 innings, he posted a 4.70 ERA with a 28.8 K% and a 10.3 BB% while being over five years younger than the average age of the competition at Triple-A. If his slider continues to develop, he could project as a playoff-caliber starter with room to grow. The Twins value his competitiveness and steady progress. Other Candidates: RHP Marco Raya, IF Billy Amick Age 24: LHP Connor Prielipp Prielipp is finally starting to resemble the dominant pitcher he was before Tommy John surgery. His slider remains a true out pitch, and the Twins have been encouraged by his increased velocity and improved command. In 2025, he posted a 4.03 ERA with a 27.0 K% and an 8.5 BB%. If he can maintain health, Minnesota believes he could push for major league innings sooner rather than later. Derek Falvey mentioned him as a potential option for Minnesota’s revamped bullpen, and he has the upside to be a dominant late-inning lefty. Other Candidates: RHP Andrew Morris, RHP Mick Abel This age-based breakdown shows how deliberately the Twins have built their farm system. Each tier offers something different, and together they create a foundation that can support both short-term needs and long-term aspirations. Players like Jenkins and Culpepper are nearing the doorstep, while younger talents such as Castillo and Young provide hope for the next wave. It is a reminder that, even as the major league roster shifts, reliable talent is developing just beneath the surface. Do you agree with the rankings? Should any of the other candidates be the top choice? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

A former Minnesota Twins catching prospect is officially eligible to return to affiliated baseball, closing the chapter on one of the most confusing and controversial situations the organization has dealt with in recent years. Derek Bender, a sixth-round pick in 2024, was released by the Twins in September 2024 after allegations surfaced that he tipped pitches to opposing hitters during a Florida State League doubleheader. Major League Baseball confirmed to The Athletic that his discipline has been served and he can now sign with any club. Bender, who missed the entire 2025 season due to what MLB described as his “conduct,” issued a broad apology through the MLB Players Association. His statement did not directly address whether he gave away pitches, yet it showed a player grappling with the end of a draining year. “After further reflection, I would like to apologize to the Minnesota Twins organization, my former teammates and coaches, and the fans, for my actions at the conclusion of the 2024 season,” Bender said. He added that he had been struggling with his mental health, noting, “Over the past year, I have been working hard, both on and off the field, to become the best player and teammate I can be.” In a February interview with The Athletic, however, Bender pushed back strongly on the core accusation. Asked directly if he gave pitches away, he responded, “No.” He went even further, saying, “And I’ll live with this until the day I die. I never gave pitches away. I never tried to give the opposing team an advantage against my own team.” At the same time, he acknowledged the physical and mental exhaustion he felt near the end of the season, mentioning joking conversations with teammates about errors and the shared feeling that “everybody’s ready to go home.” The league never publicly stated what conduct triggered Bender’s discipline, and investigators did not find gambling involvement of any kind. A league source told The Athletic that MLB had been examining a potential violation of rule 21(a), which covers intentionally losing games. A confirmed violation would have resulted in a lifetime ban, but the negotiated agreement sidestepped a formal ruling and allowed Bender to return after serving a season long suspension. With the matter now resolved, Bender has started contacting clubs to express his interest in returning. He spent last year with the Brockton Rox of the Frontier League, playing 92 games while hitting .282 with 11 home runs and 54 runs batted in. Despite the turmoil, he expressed a renewed commitment to the sport. “This whole situation made me fall out of love with baseball,” Bender said. “But I realized that I want to win more baseball games in my career. I love baseball. I love winning. I love being a part of a team.” For now, Bender’s future depends on whether an organization is willing to take a chance on a player trying to move past a complicated ending to his time with the Twins. But at the very least, the door to affiliated baseball is open again. View full rumor

Earlier today, Rosenthal reported that the Twins plan to hold on to Buxton, Ryan, and Lopez. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6866003/2025/12/05/minnesota-twins-offseason-plans-byron-buxton-joe-ryan/

Minnesota’s offseason has been underway for more than two months, but as the Winter Meetings draw near, the Twins still appear to be wrestling with their direction. That uncertainty isn’t just external perception either. According to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, the organization’s internal conversations remain murky. As he put it on Foul Territory, the Twins “are a mystery” because “there is not clarity yet on how they are going to operate this offseason.” Rosenthal emphasized this wasn’t simply a matter of the team keeping plans quiet. “I mean clarity within their own organization. I don’t know that they know what they’re going to do. They’re working through it. What I was told this week is that they’ll have clarity by the winter meetings. OK. It’s probably a good idea to have clarity by the winter meetings.” That kind of ambiguity is unusual for this point in the calendar, especially with the annual gathering of front offices set to take place next week in Orlando. The Twins have had over two months since the regular season ended to prepare their approach, and yet the franchise’s posture remains unsettled. Much of that stems from Minnesota’s stumbling ownership transition. The failed sale and the arrival of still-unnamed minority investors appear to be casting a shadow over budget decisions. Rosenthal noted that internal opinions are diverging. “It seems to me that there are factions in the Twins organization that want to start building the team back up again. Good idea since you’ve alienated your fan base. And then there are ownership questions. They just took on the two new investors. How much are they going to spend? All of that.” Amid that backdrop, the club’s most significant decisions still loom. What will Minnesota do with its remaining star-level players? Rosenthal wondered aloud: “So, the question then becomes ... where are they going to go? Which way are they going to go? I don’t necessarily expect them to trade (Joe) Ryan, (Byron Buxton), maybe Pablo Lopez.” If the side pushing for a roster rebound wins out, the Twins could arrive at spring training with their core intact. But if the payroll-cutting faction gains control, then difficult choices become more likely. As Rosenthal put it, “But to keep going backwards, if they do that, then yes, Ryan becomes available. Buxton becomes available. They’re probably more valuable separately than they would be (packaged) together.” The clock is ticking. With the Winter Meetings just days away, the Twins need to settle on a path that not only clarifies their competitive intentions but also signals to fans that the organization is finally ready to move forward. View full rumor

Image courtesy of © Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images Byron Buxton has repeatedly stated that he would stay in the Twin Cities for the rest of his career. Now, the veteran star appears increasingly open to the idea of waiving his no-trade clause. That shift has quietly pushed the door open for teams like the New York Mets, who have been circling for months and believe they are one impact defender away from transforming their offseason. Let's take a deeper look into why the Buxton trade conversation has resurfaced, why the Mets remain heavy suitors, and which young players could catch the Twins' interest if talks gain traction. Why a Buxton Trade Is Back on the Table If the Twins had kept their veteran core intact at last summer’s trade deadline, this conversation might feel far-fetched. Instead, the front office pivoted toward selling, after injuries and inconsistency dragged Minnesota out of the AL Central race. Buxton stayed put then, but the logic behind that decision appears to be changing. Buxton has three years and just $45 million remaining on his extension, making him one of the league’s best dollar-for-dollar values following a 2025 season in which he launched 35 home runs; posted an .878 OPS; and delivered nearly five wins above replacement. That production, combined with a playable center field glove, is precisely the kind of asset that rebuilding teams often cash in while they still can. Reports from ESPN and The Athletic indicate Buxton is willing to approve a move under the right circumstances. The Braves and Mets reached out about Buxton at the deadline, but he held firm to his desire to stay in Minnesota. If the Twins want to maximize value before age and injury concerns resurface, a winter move might be the moment. Why the Mets Are Locked In on a Center Field Upgrade David Stearns, the Mets' president of baseball operations, has made it clear that New York intends to improve its run prevention and athleticism. To be fair, the Twins’ front office has said similar things about Minnesota’s roster over the last year. Earlier this winter, New York traded Brandon Nimmo to Texas for Marcus Semien, signaling a shift toward better infield defense and more stability up the middle. That maneuver, though, created a glaring opening in the outfield. Juan Soto is penciled into right field, but center field remains unsettled. The Mets retained Tyrone Taylor as a depth option and are giving top prospect Carson Benge the chance to compete for a roster spot in spring training. They are also hovering around the high end of the free-agent market, where names like Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger linger. Neither of those players are center field options, though. Buxton is a different category of target. He is significantly cheaper than the star free agents and offers a reliable defensive fit, even if his power output fluctuates. If Benge proves ready sooner than expected, Buxton could shift to left field and immediately improve the outfield defense. If Benge needs more seasoning, Buxton becomes the everyday anchor in center. For a team aiming to contend with the Braves and Phillies, this flexibility matters. The Mets' window is open. Stearns has the prospect capital. The logic lines up. Mets Top Prospects Who Could Interest the Twins For a player of Buxton’s caliber, the Twins should expect multiple premium talents in return. The Mets have precisely the type of system that can support such a deal. Nolan McLean, RHP (No. 1 in the system, No. 11 in MLB) McLean is still prospect-eligible, but he's a big-leaguer and could step into the Twins’ rotation if they trade from their veteran starting pitcher depth. Last season, he posted a 2.45 ERA with a 1.13 WHIP and 27.2 K% at Double A and Triple A. He was even better during his big-league debut, with a 2.06 ERA and 30.3 K% in eight starts. McLean would be tough to wrestle away, even for Buxton. Carson Benge, OF (No. 2 in the system, No. 21 in MLB) This is another tough piece to pry loose. Benge is likely to debut in 2026 and could slot into New York’s outfield for years. Last season, as a 22-year-old, he moved through the three highest levels in the Mets' farm system. In 116 games, he hit .281/.385/.472, with a 150 wRC+. If Minnesota insists on a potential Buxton replacement, they will start the conversation here. Jett Williams, IF (No. 3 in the system, No. 30 in MLB) Williams has on-base skills and defensive versatility that fit Minnesota’s development patterns perfectly. He might be the most realistic centerpiece, if New York wants to keep Benge and McLean. Last season, he hit .261/.363/.465, with a 136 wRC+ in 130 games, although that included some struggles upon a promotion to Triple-A Syracuse. He was drafted as a middle infielder but has also played some center. Like Benge, he would be a plausible Buxton replacement. Jonah Tong, RHP (No. 4 in the system, No. 46 in MLB) Tong won MiLB's Pitching Prospect of the Year Award in 2025 and profiles as a rotation stabilizer with upside. At the two highest levels of the minors, he posted a 1.43 ERA (best among full-season qualifiers) and led the minors with 179 strikeouts in 113 2/3 innings. His 40.5% strikeout rate, 29.9 K-BB%, .148 opponents' batting average, 1.68 FIP, and 2.16 xFIP were all tops among minor leaguers with at least 100 innings pitched. His brief struggles in the big leagues at age 22 might make the front office hesitate, but this is precisely the type of right arm the Twins covet. Brandon Sproat, RHP (No. 5 in the system) Sproat is a power righty who could help the Twins as soon as 2026. He pitched the bulk of his innings at Triple A last season and compiled a 4.24 ERA, with a 1.24 WHIP and a 22.1% strikeout rate. Adding him as part of a larger package would firm up Minnesota’s pitching depth. Jacob Reimer, 3B/1B (No. 6 in the system) One of the best third base prospects in baseball, Reimer would give Minnesota a long-term solution behind Royce Lewis or a high-ceiling bat if injuries or roster decisions shift the infield picture. He split time between High A and Double A last season, with a 157 wRC+, 21.5% strikeout rate, and 11.1% walk rate. Reimer is a right-handed power bat, something the Twins have lacked in recent seasons. A realistic Twins ask could be a package built around Williams or Reimer, paired with a pitching prospect like Tong or Sproat. If the Mets are determined to push past other NL East competitors, this is the price they will finally agree to pay. A Buxton trade is not imminent, but the conditions feel more aligned than ever. The Twins need young, controllable talent with a chance to make a big difference. The Mets need a steadying force in center field. Buxton is increasingly open to a new chapter. The two clubs have danced around this possibility for months. This winter might be the time they finally finish the song. Which prospects would make an ideal Buxton package? Would the Mets overpay for Buxton? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Earlier this winter, I wrote about a potential Joe Ryan trade with the Mets. Find out about the prospects they have at the top of their system.

The Mets are surveying the trade market for rotation upgrades and have expressed interest in Twins right-hander Joe Ryan, who remains appealing due to his affordability and remaining club control. Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that Ryan is one of several trade targets for the Mets. Minnesota, which unexpectedly tore down much of its roster at the 2025 trade deadline, held onto Ryan despite significant interest from multiple contenders. His strong performance and team-friendly salary make him a valuable asset, and the Twins’ willingness to move him now remains uncertain. Much of Minnesota’s direction hinges on ownership and the status of two long-anticipated minority-ownership additions, which could influence the team’s budget. President of baseball operations Derek Falvey has said he intends to build for 2026 unless directed otherwise, though the club’s quiet offseason and drastically reduced payroll leave their true intentions unclear. A deeper sell-off that includes Ryan, Pablo López, Ryan Jeffers, or even a reassessment of Byron Buxton’s no-trade stance becomes more plausible if spending remains restricted. If the Twins do consider a Ryan trade, Mets prospect Jonah Tong makes sense as a centerpiece (Heyman mentioned Tong specifically in the article). His rapid rise through the minors and elite strikeout rates have established him as a top-50 prospect, despite early struggles in his MLB debut. The upcoming Winter Meetings are expected to reveal whether Minnesota plans to add pieces for a 2026 push or continue stripping down the roster, with payroll flexibility likely determining how aggressively they act and whether their top players become realistic trade chips. View full rumor