Cody Christie

Image courtesy of © Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images Some of the names at the top of this list are returnees from last year, but the core of the team took on a very different feel after last season’s trade deadline. On paper, the Twins can roll out the same group and be somewhat competitive in the AL Central. However, there are no guarantees that every piece of the core will still be on the roster when the team reconvenes in Fort Myers. As the Minnesota Twins gear up for the 2026 season, the focus shifts to the core group of players who form the backbone of the roster. Some players have cemented their place as long-term building blocks, while others could be valuable trade assets. In this article, we rank the Twins’ most important pieces at the big-league level, considering their impact and the likelihood of them being traded before the 2026 season. 5. C Ryan Jeffers Pros: Jeffers emerged as one of the best offensive catchers in the American League over the last three seasons, with his 115 wRC+ ranking behind only Cal Raleigh and Yainer Diaz. His blend of power, improved contact ability, and comfort handling the pitching staff made him a vital part of Minnesota’s lineup. His leadership behind the plate and familiarity with the pitching core add intangible value that is difficult to replace. He has continued to show growth in game-calling and preparation. Cons: His defensive metrics remain inconsistent, which could lead to questions about his long-term fit as the everyday catcher. He's a below-average framer and blocker of pitches in the dirt. With only one season of team control remaining, his future in Minnesota becomes more complicated. The Twins have to weigh the risk of losing him for nothing against extracting value at a position where strong offensive performers are rare. Trade Likelihood: High He is only under team control for the 2026 season. The Twins will probably trade him this winter, or before July’s trade deadline. 4. 2B Luke Keaschall Pros: Keaschall’s stock soared in 2025 as he showcased a well-rounded offensive profile and MLB Pipeline named him to their 2025 All-Rookie Team. His bat-to-ball skills; aggressive but controlled approach; and knack for squaring the ball up (to get the most out of his below-average bat speed) quickly made him one of the most productive young hitters on the roster. His versatility gives Minnesota flexibility as they attempt to build a lineup with fewer weak spots. As he gets further away from Tommy John surgery, he can likely start playing the outfield again, too. Cons: His breakout season is based on a relatively small sample at the major-league level. Teams will want to see whether he can maintain his approach once the league adjusts. His ability to stick at one position is still in question, and while versatility is valuable, it can also create uncertainty about where he fits into future lineup plans. If another team sees him as an everyday player at a premium spot, Minnesota could be tempted. Trade Likelihood: Low Keaschall has too much upside and too many years of control for the Twins to seriously consider moving him—unless an overwhelming offer comes along. 3. OF Byron Buxton Pros: Buxton reminded the organization how valuable he can be when healthy. His defense in center field stabilizes the entire outfield, and his power-speed combination remains one of the most electric blends in the league. He won his first Silver Slugger and finished in the top 12 for the AL MVP. His leadership and presence in the clubhouse continue to matter, especially as the roster transitions to a younger core. When he is on the field, Buxton completely changes what the Twins are capable of doing. Cons: Health uncertainty remains the defining issue. Even though he made strides in staying on the field last season, Minnesota cannot ignore the years of injuries that have altered his long-term outlook. His defense took a step back in 2025, and he may need to move to a corner outfield spot with top prospects on the horizon. With a no-trade clause in place, any deal would require his approval, and his future becomes complicated if the club continues its shift toward youth. Trade Likelihood: Medium He has a no-trade clause, but rumors began swirling that he would be open to a trade if the Twins continue trading veteran players. 2. SP Pablo López Pros: When López is locked in, he remains one of the most reliable starting pitchers in the American League. He ranked in the top sextile of the league in limiting hard contact and inducing batters to chase pitches outside the zone. His strike-throwing, his ability to pitch deep into games, and the swing-and-miss sweeper (30.1% whiff rate) that has become his signature make him a legitimate top-of-the-rotation arm. He brings consistency and leadership to a staff that needs both during the transition to a younger core. Cons: He was limited to under 80 innings last season, after averaging over 186 per season from 2022-24. He returned at the end of the year and performed well, but Minnesota must determine whether the ace version of López will return. His contract, while reasonable for a frontline starter, represents a significant portion of the Twins' payroll. With multiple young arms nearing the majors, the front office may view this as the right time to reallocate resources. Trade Likelihood: High The Twins are on a limited budget and will need his $21 million for other parts of the roster. 1. SP Joe Ryan Pros: Ryan has developed into one of the most dependable and efficient starters in the rotation. His elite command, deceptive fastball, and growing secondary mix give him the tools to pitch near the top of a competitive staff. He was an All-Star for the first time in 2025, after multiple years in which he performed at an All-Star level. With two years of team control remaining, he remains one of the most valuable assets in the organization. Cons: As Ryan moves through his arbitration years, his salary will steadily rise, and Minnesota must decide whether they are willing to invest long-term in his profile. While effective, he does not possess overwhelming velocity (93.6 MPH on the fastball), and teams may question how his style will age. His value is substantial, and the Twins could maximize their return if they believe his ceiling has already been reached. Trade Likelihood: Medium-High Ryan remains a core piece, but his combination of performance, affordability, and projection makes him one of the most valuable trade chips in the organization. As Minnesota enters a pivotal offseason, decisions regarding these core players will shape not just the 2026 roster but also the franchise's trajectory for years to come. The front office must balance financial limitations, timelines for emerging prospects, and the desire to remain competitive in an ever-changing division. Some of these players figure to anchor the next contending Twins team, while others may ultimately bring back the pieces needed to build it. Whether Minnesota chooses stability or a bold reset, this winter will reveal precisely how the organization views its core and how committed it is to reshaping the roster for a more sustainable future. Will any of the players above be traded this winter? Which player is the most critical building block? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Geoff Burke-Imagn Images For the past five years, Torii Hunter has hovered around the edges of the Hall of Fame conversation, without gaining the traction needed for a serious push. His candidacy has lived in that tricky gray area where voters clearly respect his career, but hesitate to elevate him into Cooperstown territory. That uncertainty is common with players whose value extends beyond the numbers, and Hunter’s résumé has long walked that line. But the current voting cycle may finally give him the opening he needs. With a historically thin ballot for 2026, voters may begin reassessing holdover candidates, especially those whose contributions to the sport transcend simple statistical comparison. Hunter fits that mold better than almost anyone still on the ballot, and the timing has never been more favorable. Reviewing the 2026 Ballot The 2026 ballot is shaping up to be one of the weakest in recent memory. According to Jay Jaffe, this will be the first time since 2008 that six or fewer candidates on the ballot carry a JAWS score of at least 50. JAWS is an acronym for the Jaffe Wins Above Replacement Score, a system created to evaluate a baseball player's worthiness for induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame. It compares a candidate's statistics to the average Hall of Famer at their position by averaging their career WAR (Wins Above Replacement) with the total WAR from their best seven seasons (peak WAR). The goal is to identify players who are at least as good as the average Hall of Famer, using a metric that balances career value with peak performance. It is rare for a ballot to lack clear-cut newcomers, and that scarcity could shift attention toward long-term holdovers like Hunter. None of the first-time players is projected to gain significant traction. The 12 newcomers include Ryan Braun, Shin-Soo Choo, Edwin Encarnacion, Gio Gonzalez, Alex Gordon, Cole Hamels, Matt Kemp, Howie Kendrick, Nick Markakis, Daniel Murphy, Hunter Pence, and Rick Porcello. While many of those names bring strong careers and memorable moments, they fall short of the typical Hall of Fame profile. Hamels is the most compelling. He finished his 15-year career with a 3.43 ERA, a 123 ERA+, and 2,560 strikeouts. He owns a World Series MVP trophy and had several ace-level seasons, but analysts remain split on whether that résumé will launch him toward the Hall. Among position players, Braun is the headliner, based strictly on production. He won Rookie of the Year and an MVP, made six All-Star teams, and hit 352 home runs with six 30-homer seasons. He even posted back-to-back 30/30 campaigns in 2011 and 2012. However, multiple suspensions for performance-enhancing drugs complicate (and likely sink) his candidacy. With no overpowering newcomers and few returning candidates separating themselves in recent years, the subsequent two cycles could create space for overlooked players to climb. That includes Hunter. Hunter’s Hall of Fame History Hunter debuted on the Hall of Fame ballot in 2021 and has remained on the edge of survival ever since. Candidates must receive at least five percent of the vote to stay on the ballot, and Hunter has flirted dangerously with that cutoff multiple times. His results so far: 2021 BBWAA: 9.5 percent 2022 BBWAA: 5.3 percent 2023 BBWAA: 6.9 percent 2024 BBWAA: 7.3 percent 2025 BBWAA: 5.1 percent He has never received double-digit support, and recent slippage might concern some Twins fans. Yet hovering between five and ten percent can also signal that a player has a loyal block of voters and could expand their support under the right ballot conditions. The Case For Hunter Hunter’s defining skill was his game-changing defense. Nicknamed “Spider-Man” for his leaping robberies at the wall, he collected nine Gold Gloves over a 10-year stretch. Few outfielders of his era controlled center field as completely as Hunter did, and his highlight-reel plays remain essential vignettes of early 2000s baseball. Only seven players in MLB history have hit 350 or more home runs while also winning at least nine Gold Gloves, an exclusive group that underscores his rare two-way impact. His offensive résumé, while not elite by Hall standards, is undeniably strong. Hunter finished with 353 home runs, 498 doubles, over 2,400 hits, and 195 stolen bases. He earned two Silver Sluggers and became a five-time All-Star. Hunter blended power, speed, and creativity in a way that made him a constant threat and a difficult matchup for pitchers. Beyond the numbers, Hunter’s leadership and personality left a lasting mark everywhere he played. From Minnesota to Anaheim to Detroit, he was viewed as a franchise culture setter, an ambassador for the sport, and a respected veteran who influenced winning clubs. Voters who prioritize intangibles often keep players like Hunter in the conversation longer than the metrics alone suggest. The Case Against Hunter Hunter’s overall offensive profile falls short of Cooperstown norms. His career .277 average with a .331 on-base percentage and .461 slugging average places him comfortably above average, but not close to the offensive standard for Hall of Fame outfielders. His 110 career OPS+ means he was just 10% better than average over a long career. Defensively, the numbers diverge sharply from the reputation. While Hunter’s early career metrics were exceptional, the second half of his career tells a different story. From 2006 through his retirement in 2015, advanced metrics rated him as a below-average defender, even after moving to right field. His total defensive rating lands at -7.9, a reminder that defensive value can erode quickly and dramatically in a player’s thirties. His postseason record does little to bolster his candidacy. In 48 playoff games, Hunter hit .274/.340/.414 with four home runs, three of which came as a Twin. While those numbers are respectable, they lack signature October moments and include several defensive miscues that fans still remember. Voters often look for postseason excellence to elevate borderline candidates, and Hunter does not benefit from that boost. One of the biggest challenges for Hunter is how voters interpret the two halves of his career. From 1997 through 2007, he was a premier center fielder with elite defensive value and above-average hitting. From 2008 through 2015, his bat improved while his glove declined, making him a good but no longer great two-way player. His placement at 35th among center fielders in JAWS, trailing players like Curtis Granderson, Bernie Williams, and Andrew McCutchen, creates another hurdle. All three names are widely viewed as excellent players but not Hall of Famers, which impacts how Hunter’s case is perceived. The Path Ahead The Hall of Fame ballot is always competitive, and Hunter still faces a steep climb. But with the 2026 ballot featuring few compelling options and the current cycle offering voters a chance to reevaluate candidates in the middle tier of support, the environment could be shifting in his favor. Ballots like these have historically helped overlooked players make incremental gains, sometimes setting the stage for long-term campaigns. Do you believe Hunter deserves more support on the Hall of Fame ballot? How do you evaluate players with careers that blend elite peaks and uneven longevity? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Brad Rempel-Imagn Images The offseason has barely begun, yet the Minnesota Twins already find themselves at the center of some of the most complicated pitching rumors in baseball. With the team coming off another frustrating finish and the front office operating under unclear ownership direction, league insiders have turned their attention toward the future of Minnesota’s top starters. Joe Ryan and Pablo Lopez remain foundational names, but the possibility of a major rotation shakeup is gaining traction. What makes this situation particularly unique is how many external factors are influencing the Twins’ decision-making. Injuries, contract considerations, labor uncertainty, and an ownership transition have all collided at once. The result is an offseason outlook that feels more unpredictable than any Minnesota has faced in recent memory. As national reporters continue to weigh in, the picture around the Twins’ rotation becomes more complex. Pablo López Appears More Likely To Be Moved Joel Sherman of the New York Post reported that the Twins are “more likely” to trade Pablo López than Joe Ryan as the club explores ways to reshape its roster. López is owed over $43 million through 2027, and his recent performance complicates the picture. A forearm issue limited him to just fourteen starts in 2025, and he threw 75 2/3 innings with a strong 3.19 FIP but a middling 17% K-BB rate. He had been one of baseball’s more reliable arms during his early Twins tenure, yet his performance has seen peaks and valleys. At age thirty, López still carries name value, but his trade stock is at its lowest point with the Twins, forcing the club to deal from a position of weakness. Passan Says One Co-Ace Could Go, But Not Both National attention intensified with ESPN’s Jeff Passan writing that “the Twins will deal one of their co-aces but not both.” He noted that both pitchers’ contracts will be influenced by the possibility of a lockout because their team control runs through the 2027 campaign. That uncertainty is muddying the market as teams attempt to calculate risk before giving up premium prospects. If front offices are afraid to commit significant resources before labor clarity arrives, the Twins may be forced to accept an offer that falls short of internal expectations. It places the front office in a difficult position as they attempt to balance long-term value with short-term roster needs. Rosenthal Highlights Falvey’s Balancing Act The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal painted a picture of a front office trying to stay upright in heavy winds. Derek Falvey emphasized that he remains committed to improving a roster that has fallen short in back-to-back seasons. The message from the general managers' meetings was clear. “I remain personally committed to figuring out what are the ways we can add to this group to make it better,” Falvey said from the general managers meetings. “That is my goal. It was my stated goal before and remains my stated goal until I’m told otherwise. … My focus for now is figuring out ways we can add to the group.” Falvey wants to add talent and believes the core can still be supplemented in meaningful ways. The larger question is whether ownership shares that sentiment. At the trade deadline, Falvey was instructed to dismantle rather than reinforce, and that disconnect remains a central storyline. With two new investors awaiting league approval, the chain of command could shift. Until that happens, both Ryan and López remain possible trade candidates as the front office waits for clearer marching orders. A Fan Base Left In Limbo For Twins fans, the through line in all these reports is uncertainty. López might be the more likely trade chip, but his value is depressed. Other clubs covet Ryan, but dealing him would create a massive hole in the rotation. National reporters suggest that only one will be moved, yet a potential lockout clouds the market itself. And above it all stands an ownership group that has not yet finalized its internal structure. Falvey has acknowledged that the Twins may not have a firm direction until minority ownership approval is completed. That delay could stall major trade talks and limit the team’s ability to pursue meaningful free agents. Minnesota’s offseason will ultimately hinge on clarity from the top. Until that arrives, the front office, the players, and the fan base remain stuck in a holding pattern. The Twins are navigating an offseason marked by more uncertainty than resolve. Trade conversations involving Ryan and López remain fluid, and the market is affected by conditions beyond baseball operations’ control. If ownership does not provide direction soon, the window for impact additions could narrow quickly. Minnesota still has a chance to strengthen its roster, but the path forward will depend on decisive leadership and a clear organizational vision. Should the Twins trade one of their top starters or hold firm until the ownership situation settles? How much should the looming lockout impact trade decisions? Share your thoughts and join the discussion below. View full article

Image courtesy of © Matt Blewett-Imagn Images Last season, when I approached this series, the Twins’ roster was in a very different place. Minnesota looked like a playoff contender for much of the 2024 season, before an epic collapse. In 2025, the fall came much earlier, and the front office dealt away multiple core pieces at the trade deadline. It’s tough not to wonder if the winning window has abruptly shut on the current core. As the Minnesota Twins gear up for the 2026 season, the focus shifts to the core group of players who form the backbone of the roster. Some players have cemented their place as long-term building blocks, while others could be valuable trade assets. In this article, we rank the Twins' most important pieces at the big-league level, considering their impact and the likelihood of them being traded before the 2026 season. 10. RP Cole Sands Pros: Sands emerged as one of Minnesota’s most reliable bullpen arms in 2025, giving the team late-inning stability at a time when it desperately needed it. His splitter was worth seven runs, and his 6.4% walk rate was among the best quartile in the league. With three years of team control remaining, Sands offers cost-effective value at a position that constantly turns over. Cons: The Twins have limited options for the bullpen, so it seems unlikely that the front office will trade another reliever. While Sands was a needed bright spot, his track record is still inconsistent. As the Twins showed at the deadline, teams often look to sell high on relievers, and middle reliever is a high-volatility, non-premium role. A club searching for bullpen help could view Sands as an appealing second piece in a larger deal. His limited ceiling compared to other controllable pitchers also factors into Minnesota's long-term roster building. Trade Likelihood: Low Minnesota values the role Sands fills, and unless a trade package specifically targets him, it is hard to see the team pushing him out the door. 9. 3B Royce Lewis Pros: When healthy, Lewis remains one of the most dynamic talents in the organization. Last season, I ranked him at the top of this list, but his 2025 performance dropped him. The Twins hoped that his early-career offensive performance would make him a franchise cornerstone. Even in 2025, Lewis showed improved defense at third base, with one OAA. Offensively, his 73.6 bat speed was in the 72nd percentile, and the rate at which he pulled the ball in the air (24.5%) continued to rank well. Cons: Durability remains the defining question. Multiple significant injuries have kept Lewis off the field, and Minnesota must evaluate how much they can count on him. Even with this season’s improvements, his defensive future is unclear, and depending on roster construction, the Twins may question whether he fits best at third base, designated hitter, or somewhere else entirely. If the front office believes another club is willing to pay full value for his upside, the door is at least cracked open. Trade Likelihood: Medium While the Twins are far from eager to move Lewis, he is one of the few players who could be traded to shake up the team’s offensive core. That keeps the possibility in play. 8. SS Brooks Lee Pros: Lee took over the team’s starting shortstop role after the club dumped Carlos Correa at the trade deadline. His athletic ability is worse than Correa’s at shortstop, but he can hold down the position, with -1 OAA in nearly 600 innings. Before his big-league debut, scouts praised him for his ability to control the zone, hit for average, and produce tough, professional at-bats. This season, he ranked in the 74th percentile or higher in both avoiding strikeouts and squaring up the ball, thereby getting the most out of his bat speed. The Twins have no other options for shortstop, so they would need to be blown away by a trade offer for Lee. With five years of control remaining, Lee looks like a core piece in the making. Cons: His ceiling may not be as high as some of Minnesota’s other young hitters, and that could make him expendable in the right deal. If another club views Lee as a ready-made solution at a premium position, the Twins might have the opportunity to address a glaring organizational need. There is also the looming question of where Lee fits long-term if the front office believes he can’t stick at shortstop. Trade Likelihood: Low The Twins have little incentive to trade Lee, and would require a significant return to even consider it. 7. SP Bailey Ober Pros: Entering last season, Ober looked like he had established himself as a dependable mid-rotation starter. He had impressive strike-throwing ability and a track record of durability. His size, delivery and command make him uniquely difficult for hitters to time. Last year, his walk rate, chase rate, and extension toward the plate at release ranked in the 93rd percentile or higher. With two years remaining in team control, he continues to be cost-effective. Cons: Ober’s margin for error remains thinner than that of the typical front-line starter. He struggled with a hip injury last season, which seemed to throw off his mechanics. When his fastball command wavers, hitters can elevate against him and produce damage quickly. His stuff is more solid than electric, which may make him more replaceable in the long term as top prospects move closer to the majors. Trade Likelihood: Medium-Low The Twins like what Ober brings, but as they reshape the rotation, they could listen if a team makes a compelling offer. However, his trade value might be at an all-time low. 6. OF Matt Wallner Pros: Like many Twins hitters, Wallner struggled in 2025—but he was still among the team’s best hitters, with a 110 OPS+. According to Baseball Reference, he was worth 6, relative to an average batter. He has game-changing power, with his Barrel rate, bat speed, and walk rate ranking in the 84th percentile or higher. His elite arm adds to his defensive value. When he is locked in, Wallner looks like the type of middle-of-the-order bat that Minnesota has been desperate to develop internally. Cons: His track record still contains peaks and valleys. Wallner’s offensive success relies heavily on his ability to maintain strike-zone discipline, and slumps get especially ugly. For instance, before going down at the end of the year, Wallner batted just .163/.293/.347 in September. With Minnesota’s growing outfield depth and the emergence of other left-handed bats, the front office must decide whether Wallner fits the long-term puzzle or represents one of their best trade chips. A club looking for controllable power could push for his inclusion. Trade Likelihood: Medium Wallner remains part of the Twins' plans, but his combination of upside and uncertainty makes him a realistic trade candidate, depending on the team’s offseason priorities. The Twins have a strong core for 2026, but that doesn’t mean they won’t explore trades to reshape the roster. Lee and Wallner are young, foundational players the team will probably build around, while others like Sands, Ober, and Lewis could be moved to fill other needs. The offseason will be critical, as the front office balances improving the team without disrupting its future success. Will any of the players above be traded this winter? Which player is the most critical building block? Leave a comment and start the discussion View full article

Image courtesy of © Brad Rempel-Imagn Images After a disappointing finish to the 2025 campaign, the Minnesota Twins enter 2026 hoping to get back into the playoff mix. Several players took significant steps forward last season, which helped keep the club semi-competitive despite a transition-heavy year. However, not everyone who excelled in 2025 is a sure bet to maintain that level of production. Regression is a natural part of baseball, and the following four players could see their numbers dip as the Twins try to reestablish themselves as contenders. OF Byron Buxton Buxton is coming off arguably the best season of his career, one in which he rediscovered his elite form and reminded everyone how dynamic he can be when healthy. Yet as he enters his age-32 season, it is fair to question how much longer he can maintain that level of explosiveness. Father Time remains undefeated, and Buxton’s speed and defensive range may begin to wane. The Twins could soon face a difficult conversation about whether to keep him in center field or shift him to a corner spot to preserve his health and extend his production window. 2026 Outlook: The Twins will continue to rely on Buxton as a key lineup piece and clubhouse leader, but his role could evolve. If he can stay on the field for 120-plus games and maintain league-average defense, he remains a valuable everyday player. A transition to left or right field could allow his bat to stay in the lineup more often while easing the physical demands that have limited his availability in past seasons. RHP Joe Ryan Ryan has been a dependable presence in Minnesota’s rotation, but his second-half numbers from last year provide some warning signs. He allowed a .790 OPS in the second half compared to a .591 mark in the first half, a pattern that has appeared in previous seasons. Injuries and inconsistency tend to creep in as workloads build, and that could again impact his overall performance. Ryan should remain a valuable playoff-caliber starter, but his final 2026 line may not match the highs he posted early last year. 2026 Outlook: Ryan enters 2026 as one of the most important arms in the rotation, particularly with several younger pitchers still developing. His ability to adjust midseason and maintain his fastball effectiveness will determine whether he can stabilize his year-to-year numbers. Even with some regression, a durable 180-inning season with solid strikeout totals would provide the consistency the Twins need. INF Kody Clemens Clemens became one of the more pleasant surprises of 2025 after the Twins gave him his first extended big-league opportunity. He responded with 19 home runs and a 96 OPS+, helping stabilize first base in a season of transition. However, those numbers might represent his ceiling rather than his new baseline. First base is traditionally a power-driven position, and Clemens’s overall offensive profile may not hold up if his power production dips even slightly. The Twins are betting on him to replicate his success, but that could prove difficult over a full season. 2026 Outlook: Clemens enters spring training with an opportunity to earn regular at-bats, but the team may also look to add competition at first base or designated hitter. If he can sustain his contact quality and improve his on-base skills, he could carve out a role as a versatile left-handed bat. However, if his slugging numbers regress, he might find himself in a platoon or bench role by midseason. RHP Simeon Woods Richardson Woods Richardson gets lost in the shuffle of the Twins’ young starting pitchers, but he has proven his worth over the last two seasons. He posted a 4.04 ERA and a 106 ERA+, becoming a steady presence behind the team’s top starters. Yet his underlying metrics raise some concerns about potential regression. His walk rate increased from 8.4% to 9.8%, and his hard-hit rate jumped by more than five percentage points. While his strikeout rate improved, his .265 BABIP suggests he benefited from some batted-ball luck that may not hold. The Twins still view him as part of their long-term rotation, but fans should temper expectations heading into 2026. 2026 Outlook: Woods Richardson will likely open the season as the team’s fourth or fifth starter, and his continued development will be key for the rotation’s depth. If he can keep his walk rate in check and induce more weak contact, he could solidify himself as a reliable mid-rotation arm. However, if his command wavers and hard contact remains an issue, regression could lead to a move to long relief or Triple-A for a reset. Minnesota’s path back to contention depends on balancing breakout performances with stability from its veterans. If these players can stave off regression, the Twins could make a serious push in 2026. But if their numbers slide, the front office may be forced to look elsewhere for answers. Do you agree that these players are headed for regression? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Eric Hartline-Imagn Images The offseason always brings surprising conversations, but few topics around the league have created more quiet buzz than the idea of Baltimore listening on Adley Rutschman. The Orioles remain well-positioned to contend, yet their roster is reaching a point where difficult decisions are unavoidable. Rutschman, once viewed as the foundation of their turnaround, is now part of a more complicated catching picture after a frustrating 2025 season and the rise of Samuel Basallo. Rutschman hit below expectations this past year (90 OPS+) after back-to-back All-Star campaigns (117 OPS+), and multiple oblique injuries limited both his availability and overall impact. Meanwhile, Basallo arrived in the big leagues, and the organization doubled down by locking him in for eight seasons at an affordable rate, giving them long-term cost certainty behind the plate. With Rutschman entering his fifth year and only under control through 2027, the Orioles suddenly face a reality in which their younger, cheaper option may fit their long-range structure more cleanly. That does not mean Baltimore is eager to subtract a two-time All-Star. It simply means they are willing to hear what other teams are willing to pay. Early reports suggest that several clubs have reached out, and any realistic offer would need to feature proven major leaguers rather than long-term development projects. For a team intent on staying in the thick of the playoff picture, a Rutschman trade only makes sense if it helps them win immediately. This is where the Twins enter the conversation. Minnesota is at a crossroads of its own after two disappointing seasons and a roster full of difficult long-term decisions. Trading Joe Ryan or Pablo López is not something the front office would take lightly, but both pitchers hold significant value in a market light on dependable starters. The question is whether the Twins could justify moving from a strength to solidify a position that could quickly become a weakness. Ryan Jeffers has been a major success story, but he is approaching his final year of club control and will be one of the most intriguing free agent catchers next winter. Minnesota has no clear succession plan behind him, and catching depth throughout the organization remains thin. Adding a player like Rutschman, even after a down year, would immediately provide stability, upside, and long-term certainty at a premium position. His ability to control the zone, elevate an offense, and handle pitching staffs still stands out even after a season of setbacks. For Minnesota, dealing Ryan or López would hurt, but each presents a different type of fit for Baltimore. López offers frontline ability and several years of team control at a competitive price. Ryan brings All-Star potential, strong strike-throwing, and the type of personality that meshes well in a young clubhouse. He also comes at a cheaper price point for an Orioles ownership group that has kept payroll in the middle of the pack. Either pitcher would give the Orioles the ready-made, playoff-caliber rotation help they currently lack and cannot easily acquire through free agency, as many fans assume. Would either side consider a one-for-one swap? In theory, it is possible. Catchers with Rutschman’s pedigree rarely become available, but frontline or near frontline pitching with multiple years of control is just as scarce. The Twins would be betting heavily on Rutschman returning to his All-Star form, while the Orioles would be betting that their internal catching depth remains strong enough to support a return to October baseball. The more likely outcome would involve additional pieces to balance risk, but the framework is not unrealistic. It solves a looming problem for each franchise. Minnesota gains a catcher capable of anchoring the roster for years, and Baltimore adds the type of rotation stability that may be the difference between a strong regular season and a playoff run. With both clubs navigating complicated offseasons and both showing a willingness to at least consider impactful moves, this is a scenario worth watching closely. If the Orioles decide that Basallo is ready to take over and the Twins determine that this is the moment to reimagine their core, an unlikely match could suddenly make perfect sense. Should the Twins and Orioles connect on a trade? Who should Minnesota center the trade around, Lopez or Ryan? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Matt Blewett-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins enter the offseason with more questions than answers. Ownership appears poised to reduce payroll, but the front office still hopes to be competitive in a winnable AL Central. That balancing act could push Derek Falvey and company to explore creative ways to improve the roster without adding significant salary. One of the clearest paths to doing that might be to deal from their outfield depth, an area where the organization has plenty of talent and intrigue. At this week's GM Meetings in Las Vegas, Jon Morosi reported that the demand for starting-caliber outfielders is high. That's a bit obvious, and the report is short on details or newsworthy nuggets, but it might turn out to signal something real about the outfield market this winter. For the Minnesota Twins, that could not come at a better time. The organization boasts a deep group of major-league and near-ready outfielders, giving the front office an opportunity to get creative. Byron Buxton: Unlikely though it seemed a few months ago, Buxton might waive his no-trade clause to join a contending club—particularly if the Twins continue to move veteran players this winter. He's coming off one of the best offensive stretches of his career and remains a highly athletic center fielder. His contract is team-friendly, and with several clubs looking for star-level outfielders, his value is at an all-time high. Trading Buxton would be a seismic move for the franchise, but it is one the front office might entertain if ownership prioritizes trimming costs. Matt Wallner: Wallner experienced ups and downs last season but still managed to post a 110 OPS+, making him one of the more productive hitters in the Twins’ lineup. His combination of raw power and patience makes him an intriguing trade piece for teams looking for a controllable corner outfielder with upside. Minnesota could decide to hold onto Wallner and hope for another step forward in his development, but if the front office wants to shake up the core, he could be one of the first players moved. Trevor Larnach: Larnach’s future with the Twins appears uncertain. He is projected to make $4.7 million through arbitration, too high a salary for a player without a clear path to everyday playing time. He had a 116 OPS+ in 2024, but that dipped below average in 2025 (99 OPS+). Minnesota could explore trading him before the non-tender deadline, but his market value might be limited. While his raw tools still stand out, most teams view Larnach as a depth piece, rather than a lineup cornerstone. Austin Martin: Martin quietly finished the season strong and flashed the all-around game that once made him a top prospect. In 50 games, he produced a .740 OPS with 11 steals and a solid 31-to-22 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His ability to play multiple positions adds value, but another team could view him as an emerging regular after a promising finish. Trading Martin could address another area of need, though they may prefer to see if he can take another step forward next spring. Minnesota’s outfield picture becomes even more crowded when factoring in recent trade deadline acquisitions. James Outman and Alan Roden both project to step into more consistent playing time if the Twins move one or more of their current outfielders. Top prospects Emmanuel Rodriguez and Walker Jenkins both finished last season at Triple-A St. Paul and should arrive in the majors as early as 2026, giving the organization even more reason to consider dealing from its depth. The Twins are in a rare position: they can trade from strength without compromising their long-term outlook. If the rest of the league’s demand for outfielders remains high, Minnesota may find that its deepest position could also be its best source of value this winter. Whom should the Twins consider trading from the list above? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of William Parmeter The Twins’ farm system continued to show its strength in 2025, with several top names taking significant steps forward while others refined their games against tougher competition. Each of Minnesota’s top five prospects provided new clues about what kind of player they could become at the next level. Two of those players joined the organization during last season’s trade deadline sell-off, when Minnesota moved veteran pieces to restock a thinning prospect pool. Those deals, combined with strong player development and recent draft success, have helped the Twins build one of baseball’s highest-ranked farm systems. The group is now deep, balanced, and full of players who project to make an impact in the near future, with the five names at the top standing out as the foundation for that success. Walker Jenkins: He’s The Best Twins Prospect Since… Jenkins entered the season with enormous expectations, and he somehow managed to exceed them. After dominating at Double A (154 wRC+), Jenkins was promoted to Triple-A St. Paul before his 21st birthday, a rare feat even for baseball’s best prospects. The Twins have been aggressive with him, despite injuries causing him to miss time in his first two pro seasons. Scouts have compared his combination of bat speed, plate discipline, and raw power to the early days of Joe Mauer or Byron Buxton, two of the best prospects in Twins history. Minnesota hasn’t had a prospect this complete in years, and his ceiling looks every bit as high as advertised. Kaelen Culpepper: He Can Stick at Shortstop When the Twins selected Culpepper out of Kansas State, there were questions about whether he would eventually move to third base. This season, he silenced those doubts. His footwork, range, and arm strength all took visible steps forward; he handled every defensive challenge thrown his way. Offensively, his consistent contact and improving gap power (138 wRC+) make him a valuable piece for the organization’s future infield plans. Jenkins gets a lot of the prospect love, but Culpepper has a chance to be an All-Star. For a team looking to build around athletic, versatile players, Culpepper’s progress was a significant win. Eduardo Tait: He’s the Organization’s Catcher of the Future It’s been a while since the Twins have had a catching prospect who looked like a long-term answer behind the plate, but Tait is quickly changing that narrative. Minnesota acquired him as the headliner in the Jhoan Duran trade. The young Panamanian backstop made a name for himself in 2025 with strong defensive skills and advanced pitch-framing ability for his age. Even more encouraging was his offensive consistency, showing power to all fields with a 103 wRC+, despite being one of the youngest players in the Midwest League. If his development continues on this trajectory, he could become the everyday catcher by the time the next core of Twins prospects reaches Target Field. Emmanuel Rodriguez: His OBP Is Still High, Even Against Advanced Pitching Rodriguez’s on-base skills have always been elite, and that remained true in 2025 despite facing more advanced competition. His walk rate has stayed above 21% over the last two seasons at Triple-A, while being over four years younger than the average age of the competition. Pitchers continued to challenge him with breaking balls and elevated fastballs, but his strike-zone judgment held firm. Even when his batting average dipped (down 11 points compared to 2024), Rodriguez found ways to get on base and impact games. While he still needs to cut down on swing-and-miss tendencies, his approach gives him a high floor as a future regular who can provide power and patience in the middle of the order. Mick Abel: He Has the Chance to Be the Next Joe Ryan Acquired from Philadelphia (along with Tait), Abel joined the Twins organization with high expectations. His fastball played well up in the zone, and his curveball showed the kind of late movement that generates weak contact and strikeouts (39.1 Whiff%). There were some rough patches during his first taste of the big leagues, but even future All-Stars can struggle early in their careers. The Twins’ player development staff will get an entire offseason to work with him to refine his pitch mix, with a chance for him to take the next step in 2026. Much like Joe Ryan before him, Abel combines competitiveness with plus stuff, and if he establishes better control, he could be the next pitcher to thrive under Minnesota’s pitching development model. The Twins’ top five prospects each progressed in meaningful ways in 2025, from flashing elite hitting potential to steady defensive growth and emerging leadership. Four of these players could impact the big-league roster next season. For a team looking to put the last two seasons in the rearview mirror, that's exciting. As the organization looks to sustain success at the major-league level, this group constitutes a strong foundation for the next wave of talent ready to make its mark in Minnesota. What stands out about Minnesota’s top five prospects and their 2025 performances? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Byron Buxton has never wavered when it comes to his feelings about the Minnesota Twins. He was asked at the All-Star Game, following the trade deadline, and after the team struggled down the stretch. He told anyone who would listen that he was a Twin for life. He refused to entertain trade rumors, insisting that he wanted to win in Minnesota. Even after the club dealt 10 players at the trade deadline, including several teammates he had grown close to, Buxton publicly held firm. To him, the jersey matters as much as the name on the back. For the first time, that unshakable loyalty may be cracking. According to reporting from The Athletic’s Dan Hayes, a major-league source indicated that Buxton may be reconsidering his no-trade stance if the Twins continue breaking apart their core. “Buxton, who turns 32 next month, wants to play for a winner,” Hayes wrote, suggesting that even the two-time All-Star’s patience has limits. With three years and $45 million remaining on his contract, and full no-trade protection, the idea that he would even consider leaving speaks volumes about where the organization stands. Ironically, this moment of doubt comes just after Buxton turned in the best season of his career. After years of injuries and limited playing time, he finally stayed on the field long enough to remind everyone why he’s been considered one of the most dynamic players in baseball. In the last week, he won his first Silver Slugger, and on Thursday, he has a chance to receive down-ballot AL MVP consideration. With Buxton healthy and productive, his trade value may never be higher. There are front offices across baseball that would jump at the chance to add a player with his skill set and leadership qualities, especially if they believe his health has turned a corner. That makes the current situation even more complicated for Minnesota. Trading him now could bring back a significant return, but it would also signal that the Twins are ready to reset their identity completely. A Reflection of Ownership If Buxton is truly reconsidering his loyalty to the Twins, it is less an indictment of him and more a reflection on the organization that let things reach this point. The Twins have long marketed themselves as a team built on relationships, culture, and stability. But when ownership signals an unwillingness to sustain payroll or invest in a winning roster, even the most committed players begin to lose faith. Team president Derek Falvey recently spoke about his approach to communicating with players amid uncertainty. “My view is you always want to be transparent and open with your players about where you’re headed and what it looks like, just like we were after the deadline,” Falvey said. “I’ve talked to Byron and other players through this offseason already about ways we can get better as a team. With Shelty coming in, you can already tell there’s a little bit of fresh ideas brewing around how do we make the team the best it can be, no matter who’s on the roster at that moment in time? My focus will continue to be on ways we can put players around the players that are on our roster and not subtract from it.” It is a reassuring sentiment, but one that rings hollow after a summer defined by subtraction. The players who remain—especially veterans like Buxton—have seen firsthand how quickly things can change. When ownership decides that financial flexibility matters more than roster continuity, even the strongest bonds begin to fray. Buxton has spent his entire career representing what the Twins claim to value most: loyalty, effort, and belief in the team’s long-term vision. To make a player like that question his future says something profound about the current state of the franchise. It suggests that the front office’s decisions and ownership’s indifference have eroded the trust of their most loyal star. Buxton’s potential willingness to waive his no-trade clause is more than a transaction rumor. It is a warning sign. For years, he stood as the embodiment of what it meant to be a Minnesota Twin. If even Buxton is starting to look elsewhere for hope, then maybe the organization needs to take a hard look at what it has become and who it is pushing away in the process. Will the Twins consider trading Buxton this winter? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

The Minnesota Twins are starting to piece together their coaching staff under new manager Derek Shelton, and familiar faces will play key roles in the dugout next season. According to multiple reports, Pete Maki will return as the team’s pitching coach while LaTroy Hawkins steps into the bullpen coach role. Hawkins’ addition comes after nearly a decade of work in the organization’s player development system and regular appearances on Bally Sports North broadcasts. His move back to the field adds an experienced, respected voice to a staff tasked with helping Minnesota rebuild one of baseball’s most dominant pitching groups from just a year ago. Maki’s return provides continuity for a pitching unit that was expected to be a strength in 2024 but stumbled due to injuries and underperformance. Pablo López and Bailey Ober both took steps back, and by the trade deadline, the bullpen had been stripped down as the team dealt Jhoan Duran, Danny Coulombe, Griffin Jax, Louis Varland, and Brock Stewart in a series of moves signaling a shift toward the future. One notable departure from the organization is longtime coach Tommy Watkins, who spent 27 years in the Twins system as a player, minor-league instructor, and coach. Watkins has accepted a position with the Atlanta Braves, closing a chapter that spanned nearly three decades in Minnesota baseball. With Maki and Hawkins in place, Shelton’s coaching staff is starting to form, though several other roles remain undecided as the Twins continue shaping the next phase of their clubhouse leadership. View full rumor

Image courtesy of © Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images The Twins’ offseason outlook at catcher is more uncertain than it has been in recent years. Christian Vázquez is now a free agent, and Ryan Jeffers has been floated as a potential trade candidate. If both veterans are moved or one departs without a clear replacement, the front office will need to act quickly to find a reliable presence behind the plate. One name that makes a lot of sense is Victor Caratini. Caratini has spent the past two seasons with the Houston Astros, after signing a two-year, $12-million deal. He became a valuable part of Joe Espada’s roster, providing steady defense, switch-hitting versatility, and a dependable approach at the plate. He was often the first player called upon off the bench and started 103 games at catcher over the past two years. With Yainer Diaz locked in as the primary backstop for Houston, Caratini may look for a larger role elsewhere this winter. If that opportunity is what he’s seeking, Minnesota could be an ideal landing spot. Caratini has shown a willingness to move around the diamond, starting 32 games at designated hitter and 18 at first base over the last two seasons. That kind of flexibility would fit perfectly with the Twins' approach to mixing and matching. At the plate, he’s been quietly productive, posting a 105 OPS+ since the start of 2023. That’s the same mark Jeffers has produced over that stretch, making Caratini an intriguing option whether the Twins keep or trade their current catcher. Other offensive metrics also paint him in a positive light. He ranked in the 77th percentile or higher in strikeout, per-swing whiff and chase rates. His 30.6% rate of squaring up the ball on contact was in the 80th percentile. As a switch-hitter, the majority of his plate appearances came as a left-handed batter. In those, he posted a .726 OPS. His right-handed swing produced a .740 OPS in only 62 plate appearances. More regular at-bats (especially against righties) could help him prove he deserves to be a starter. From a defensive standpoint, Caratini is steady, if unspectacular. He manages pitching staffs well, controls the running game, and provides consistent framing and blocking. In 2024, Baseball Savant credited him with 5 catching runs (3 Framing, 2 Throwing/Blocking), but that total dipped to -3 in 2025. He also ranked in the 72nd percentile for Blocks Above Average. Last season saw the fewest innings he had caught since 2020, so sample size may have been a factor. For a team that values defensive reliability and game-calling, that combination has significant appeal. The Twins could utilize Caratini in several ways. If Jeffers stays, the two could form a natural timeshare, with Caratini giving Derek Shelton the added benefit of a switch-hitting option to balance lineups. If Jeffers is traded, Caratini could step in as the regular catcher, while also mentoring a younger option or keeping Jhonny Pereda in a backup role. Either way, he brings stability to a position that suddenly feels uncertain. With the market unlikely to be bullish for catchers this winter, a short-term deal in the same range as his last contract could make sense for both sides. However, there is no guarantee the Twins will have the payroll flexibility to add free agents without trading other pieces. From Caratini's perspective, the benefit of a deal would be more consistent playing time. For their part, the Twins would fill a significant need without a long-term commitment. As the offseason begins to take shape, Minnesota’s catching situation will be one of the most critical areas to monitor. Caratini may not be the flashiest name available. Still, his experience, switch-hitting ability, and steady play behind the plate could make him the perfect fit for the Twins heading into 2026. Should the Twins aggressively pursue Caratini? Would he be willing to come to the Twins for a more regular role than the Astros? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © William Purnell-Imagn Images When the Minnesota Twins selected Jose Miranda out of Puerto Rico in the Competitive Balance Round B of the 2016 MLB Draft, they believed his advanced bat could someday make him a fixture in their infield. It took several seasons for Miranda to emerge as a legitimate prospect, but when he finally did, his breakout was loud enough to make everyone in baseball take notice. The problem is, that peak proved fleeting. A Star in the Making Miranda’s path through the minors was slow and steady. After spending two summers in rookie ball, he gradually climbed the ladder, reaching Double-A by the end of 2019. He wasn’t protected on the 40-man roster that winter, and every team in baseball passed on him in the Rule 5 Draft. Those decisions aged poorly when he erupted in 2021. That season, Miranda led all of Minor League Baseball in hits and posted a .973 OPS while launching over 30 doubles and 30 homers between Double-A Wichita and Triple-A St. Paul. His contact-first approach suddenly came with power, and his walk rate improved without sacrificing his elite ability to put the ball in play. Miranda struck out in just 12.5 percent of his plate appearances, rarely missing fastballs and routinely producing hard contact. It was the type of offensive development the Twins’ system hadn’t seen in years. Scouts praised his compact swing and balanced approach, though some wondered if his aggressive tendencies would eventually be exploited at the next level. Still, it was hard to overlook a player who could make that much contact with that much authority. Finding His Place Miranda’s defense never matched his offensive profile. He moved between third base, second base, and first base, but his limited range and average arm strength left questions about his long-term position. The Twins didn’t seem to care. They believed the bat would play anywhere, and by 2022, he was proving them right. In his rookie season, Miranda hit .268 with 15 home runs and 66 RBIs across 125 games, providing stability to a lineup ravaged by injuries. The Twins saw him as part of their young core alongside players like Alex Kirilloff, Trevor Larnach, and Royce Lewis. Even after a step backward in 2023, he bounced back with a strong 2024 season that included tying a Major League record by recording hits in 12 straight at-bats. His confidence appeared to have returned, and his bat looked like it belonged. The Collapse Then came 2025. Miranda’s season began with a spot on the Opening Day roster but unraveled almost immediately. Through 12 games, he batted just .167 with 13 strikeouts in 36 plate appearances. His timing was off, his contact quality evaporated, and the plate discipline that once fueled his breakout vanished. The Twins demoted him to Triple-A St. Paul, where things somehow got worse. Shortly after his demotion, he had a freak accident at Target while carrying a case of bottled water. One has to wonder if that injury impacted him throughout the year. Across 90 games with the Saints, Miranda slashed .195/.272/.296 with 57 strikeouts. His once-reliable contact ability seemed to disappear entirely. What had once been a plus bat-to-ball skill turned into a liability, as he continued to swing at pitches out of the zone and struggled to make solid contact when he did connect. It was a shocking collapse for a player who, just a year earlier, had looked like one of the team’s most reliable hitters. In total, Miranda’s four-year Twins career ended with a .263 average, 28 home runs, and a 101 OPS+. What Comes Next Miranda’s fall from promising cornerstone to organizational afterthought came to a head this week with the Twins dropping him from the 40-man roster. At 27, he’s still young enough to rebound, but the margin for error has shrunk considerably. He will need to rediscover his approach at the plate and prove that his 2021-22 breakthrough wasn’t a mirage. For the Twins, Miranda’s story raises uncomfortable questions about player development and sustainability. How did a player with such natural contact ability and offensive instincts fade so quickly? Was it a matter of mechanical flaws, mental pressure, or organizational missteps? The answer is probably a mix of all three. What’s clear is that Jose Miranda’s rise and fall is one of the most abrupt turnarounds in recent Twins history. He once symbolized the promise of homegrown offensive talent, but now stands as a cautionary tale about how difficult it can be to stay on top once you get there. If Miranda finds his way back to the majors, it will be through the same perseverance that once defined his rise. But for now, his fall serves as a reminder that success in baseball can be as fragile as it is fleeting. What stands out about Miranda’s time in the organization? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article