Cody Christie

Image courtesy of © Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Baseball America recently released a comprehensive look back at every organization’s top prospects dating to 1983, the first year it began ranking talent across the league. For the Minnesota Twins, the list provides an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s long history of developing and scouting talent. Some names have become franchise legends, while others faded before ever reaching Target Field or the Metrodome. Together, they tell the story of how the Twins have developed talent for more than 40 years. Minnesota Twins' Best Prospects As part of the retrospective, Baseball America created a “Mount Rushmore of WAR” for each organization. These are players who ranked as top prospects for that team and went on to accumulate the highest career Wins Above Replacement in the major leagues, even if that success came elsewhere. For the Twins, that list included Joe Mauer, Kirby Puckett, Byron Buxton, and Jay Bell. Mauer is the most iconic homegrown player of his generation. The former number one overall pick in 2001 was a local legend before he even signed, and his career lived up to the hype. Mauer became the face of the franchise, winning three batting titles, an MVP award, and three Gold Gloves while transitioning from catcher to first base late in his career. His 55.2 fWAR with the Twins cements his status among the greatest players in team history. Puckett’s arrival in the mid-1980s helped shape a golden era for Minnesota baseball. He combined leadership, charisma, and elite performance at the plate and in center field. A six-time Silver Slugger and six-time Gold Glove winner, Puckett’s postseason heroics in 1987 and 1991 are the stuff of Twins legend. Before his career was tragically cut short, he was one of baseball’s true stars and one of the most successful top prospects the organization ever developed. Buxton represents the modern version of that elite homegrown talent. Once Baseball America’s number one overall prospect, he has flashed game-changing ability on both sides of the ball when healthy. Injuries have prevented him from reaching his full potential. Still, his combination of elite defense, power, and speed keeps him in the conversation as one of the most talented players to ever wear a Twins uniform. The fourth name on the list, Bell, might surprise some Twins fans. Bell was the eighth overall pick in the 1984 MLB Draft out of high school, and while he never played a game for Minnesota, his inclusion highlights the ripple effects of prospect development. In August 1985, Bell was traded to Cleveland as part of the deal that brought Bert Blyleven back to Minnesota. Blyleven, of course, played a pivotal role in the 1987 World Series championship. Bell went on to enjoy an impressive big-league career, finishing with 37.9 fWAR, two All-Star appearances, a Gold Glove, a Silver Slugger, and multiple seasons of down-ballot MVP consideration. Worst Big-League WAR While some prospects became franchise cornerstones, others failed to meet lofty expectations. Among the Twins’ former top prospects, Bryan Oelkers, Billy Beane, and Dave McCarty posted the lowest big-league WAR totals. Oelkers was Minnesota’s first-round pick in 1982, a left-handed pitcher out of the University of Illinois. He made his debut in 1983 but struggled with command and never established himself in the rotation, finishing his brief career with a -1.7 fWAR. Beane’s name will always be associated with his front office success more than his playing career. Drafted by the Mets in the first round of the 1980 draft, he was a highly touted outfielder who could not translate his tools into consistent big-league results. His -1.7 fWAR as a player is a far cry from the analytical revolution he later spearheaded as an executive with the Oakland Athletics. McCarty, the third overall pick in the 1991 draft, had the type of smooth right-handed swing scouts dream about. Unfortunately, it never translated into sustained major league success. He bounced around several organizations and ended his career with a -2.6 fWAR, the lowest among the Twins’ former top prospects. Names You Likely Forgot Scrolling through Baseball America’s list also unearths names that may only ring a faint bell for longtime Twins followers. Will Bankes, Adam Johnson, and Rich Garces all appeared as top prospects during their respective eras but never made the impact many expected. Johnson, in particular, was a notable case as the second overall pick in 2000, ahead of future stars like Chase Utley and Adam Wainwright. His career unraveled quickly due to injuries and inconsistency. Garces, meanwhile, eventually found success elsewhere as a reliever for the Boston Red Sox, and Bankes’ name has long since faded into minor league obscurity. Two former top Twins prospects, Steve Gasser and Johnny Ard, never reached the majors. Gasser, a right-handed pitcher, was a second-round pick in 1985 but struggled with injuries that derailed his path. Ard, a first-round selection in 1988, had a powerful arm but could not find the command needed to move through the system. Both serve as reminders of how unpredictable prospect development can be, even for highly regarded talents. Looking Back (and Forward) Baseball America’s retrospective offers a fascinating window into the Twins’ player development journey. For every Mauer or Puckett, there have been players who never realized their promise. Yet across four decades of rankings, one consistent thread emerges: Minnesota has a long history of identifying talent capable of becoming elite at the major league level. Whether those players wore a Twins uniform for one day or a decade, their stories all began in the same place, as prospects with big dreams and the potential to shape baseball history. Now the Twins hope Walker Jenkins becomes the next prospect to join their Mount Rushmore. What stands out about Baseball America’s list? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins entered the offseason with more questions than answers surrounding their starting rotation. However, the team received an early wave of good news that could help stabilize things moving forward. President of baseball operations Derek Falvey shared positive updates on both Pablo Lopez and David Festa, signaling that two key arms are on track to enter spring training in good health. Lopez is reportedly already fully recovered and preparing for a normal offseason routine, while Festa is expected to start throwing soon and should be ready for the start of camp. After an injury-filled 2025 season that forced both pitchers to miss significant time, their health will be a major storyline as the Twins plan for 2026. Pablo Lopez’s Rebound Opportunity When the Twins extended Lopez before the 2024 season, they envisioned him as a steady frontline starter to anchor the rotation for years to come. While multiple injuries disrupted his 2025 campaign, his performance when healthy reaffirmed Minnesota's optimism. Lopez’s year was bookended by health issues, beginning with a hamstring strain in April and ending with a minor right forearm strain in late September. In between, a shoulder injury cost him much of the summer and led to a stint on the 60-day injured list. When he was on the mound, though, he looked every bit like the ace the Twins hoped for by posting a 2.74 ERA (156 ERA+) across 75 2/3 innings. Some of his underlying metrics took a step back, including a career-low 93 Stuff+ rating and a drop in strikeout rate to 23.4% (down from 24.9% for his career). Those dips can be explained by the start-and-stop nature of his season, which disrupted his rhythm and mechanics. With a full, uninterrupted offseason ahead, the Twins expect Lopez to return to peak form and lead the rotation once again. The 29-year-old remains under contract for two more years at a team-friendly $43 million. That deal makes him both a valuable trade chip and a stabilizing force should the Twins decide to keep him. Falvey and his staff will surely field calls from pitching-needy contenders this winter, but Lopez’s strong recent track record makes him just as appealing as a cornerstone piece for 2026. Outlook for 2026: If Lopez stays healthy, he profiles as the leader of the pitching staff and a potential AL Cy Young contender. Expect him to handle 170-plus innings with strong command, high strikeout totals, and veteran leadership that will help guide a young pitching staff through a transitional year. David Festa’s Chance to Claim a Rotation Spot Festa’s first two seasons in the big leagues have been a mixed bag. The young right-hander has shown flashes of promise, including the ability to miss bats, but he’s also struggled with consistency. Through 117 2/3 innings at the major league level, he has posted a 5.12 ERA and a 4.27 FIP, numbers that reflect both his inexperience and his potential. Festa missed the final month of 2025 with a minor shoulder issue, but the Twins are confident he’ll be fully ready for the start of spring training. His ability to stay on the field and refine his secondary pitches could determine whether he begins 2026 in the rotation or in the minors to refine his arsenal. His overall numbers are likely affected by his attempts to pitch through shoulder issues last season. Festa was only recently removed from being one of the team’s top prospects and still represents one of the more intriguing young arms in the organization. His fastball velocity and developing changeup give him a foundation to build upon, while his competitive demeanor has impressed coaches throughout his rise in the system. With the Twins leaning toward a youth movement, Festa will get a legitimate chance to earn a starting spot in a rotation that could also include Zebby Matthews, Taj Bradley, and Mick Abel. Outlook for 2026: The Twins view 2026 as a key evaluation year for Festa. If he can translate his raw stuff into consistent command and efficiency, he has the potential to solidify himself as a potential playoff-caliber starter. Expect the team to give him a long look early in the season, even if growing pains continue to surface. Rotation Picture Coming into Focus The Twins’ pitching situation has been a puzzle for much of the past year, but healthy updates on Lopez and Festa help provide some clarity. If Lopez returns to form and Festa continues to develop, Minnesota could enter 2026 with a balanced mix of experience and youth on the mound. How the rotation ultimately looks will depend heavily on the club’s offseason strategy. The front office may explore trades involving veteran starters like Lopez or Joe Ryan to restock the system, or they could keep their core intact to remain competitive in the American League Central. Either way, having both Lopez and Festa trending in the right direction gives the Twins a much-needed foundation to build upon. As the offseason unfolds, optimism around the pitching staff feels justified. After a year of frustration and uncertainty, Minnesota’s rotation may finally be ready to turn the corner, one healthy arm at a time. Will Lopez and Festa both be part of the team’s starting rotation on Opening Day? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © David Butler II-Imagn Images The 2025-26 MLB free agent market is heating up across baseball, and national outlets are rolling out their annual top 50 lists, complete with projected contracts and potential landing spots. For the Minnesota Twins, those lists highlight the financial constraints they may face this winter. After last year’s midseason sell-off, the Twins ended 2025 with a payroll well below their Opening Day estimate of around $136 million. If ownership directs the front office to cut even further (currently projected at $95 million), it could be difficult for the team to add meaningful talent from outside the organization. Instead, the Twins might once again need to get creative, much as they did in 2024 when they traded Jorge Polanco in January to clear salary and reallocate funds toward more minor free-agent signings. This offseason could bring more of the same. With significant money tied up in Pablo López, the team could explore trading him and the $43 million owed to him over the next two seasons. Other trade possibilities could include Joe Ryan or Ryan Jeffers, as the Twins look for ways to reshape the roster without inflating payroll. The Athletic recently released its top 50 free agents for this winter, and only two players were listed as potential fits for Minnesota. Both were ranked in the 40s and were absent from FanGraphs’s own top 50 list. Here’s a closer look at those two names and how they might fit the Twins’ plans for 2026. Dustin May, RHP The Athletic Rank: 42 Projected Contract: 2 years, $26 million May is the type of player who could intrigue the Twins front office, if the team decides to trade away established arms like López or Ryan. May’s upside has always been tantalizing, but constant interruptions have defined his career. It has been more than six years since his major-league debut, yet May has managed only 57 career starts. The 2025 campaign marked the first time he exceeded 56 innings in a season. Injuries have come in every variety: elbow, back, and even a bizarre esophagus injury that required emergency surgery in 2024 after a piece of salad became lodged in his throat. From 2019 to 2023, May posted a 3.10 ERA across 191 2/3 innings, flashing frontline potential whenever healthy. In 2025, he made 23 starts and recorded a 4.96 ERA, struggling after a midseason trade to Boston and eventually landing back on the injured list with right elbow neuritis. For the Twins, May’s appeal would center on his ceiling. If he stays healthy, his stuff could rival anyone in the rotation. However, with The Athletic projecting a two-year, $26-million deal, that price tag may prove too steep for a team prioritizing financial flexibility. (That projection, of course, is not gospel.) Rhys Hoskins, 1B The Athletic Rank: 43 Projected Contract: 1 year, $10 million Minnesota has recently found success with short-term, low-cost first-base signings. In 2024, the team used savings from the Polanco trade to sign Carlos Santana to a one-year, $6-million deal, and he rewarded them with elite defense that earned him a Gold Glove. Last season, Ty France joined on a one-year, $1 million non-guaranteed deal and followed in Santana’s footsteps by winning another Gold Glove. Given that pattern, it’s hard to imagine the Twins committing $10 million to Rhys Hoskins without first clearing significant payroll, possibly by trading López. Since missing all of 2023 with a torn ACL, Hoskins hasn’t fully recaptured his pre-injury form. He lost playing time late in 2025 as Milwaukee leaned on Andrew Vaughn, and his offensive output dipped. Over the past two seasons, he’s hit 38 home runs but batted just .223 with a 102 OPS+, production that’s solid overall but underwhelming for a first baseman. Still, Hoskins offers power potential that could lengthen Minnesota’s lineup. If he’s open to a one-year “prove-it” deal closer to the range the Twins have favored recently, he might be a realistic option. Outlook for 2026 The Twins are facing an offseason of financial restraint. That doesn’t mean they can’t improve the roster, but it does mean they’ll need to rely on shrewd trades, bounce-back candidates, and internal development rather than headline signings. If the front office can navigate those limitations effectively, Minnesota could remain competitive in the AL Central. But if payroll restrictions tighten even further, fans may have to brace for a quieter winter and hope that creativity and player development can make up the difference. Do Hoskins or May fit better into Minnesota’s 2026 blueprint? Are any other top free agents a fit for the Twins? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of Twins Daily The Minnesota Twins believe Derek Shelton is ready for his second act as a big-league manager. After six challenging seasons leading the Pittsburgh Pirates, he now takes the reins in Minnesota with lessons learned, perspective gained, and a model to follow. One of the best modern examples of that kind of professional rebirth is Terry Francona. Before he became a two-time World Series champion with the Boston Red Sox, Francona failed in Philadelphia. Over four seasons with the Phillies, he posted a 285-363 record with a .440 winning percentage and never won more than 77 games. The franchise was rebuilding, the roster was limited, and Francona was a young manager still learning how to navigate the daily grind of the major leagues. That failure, though, became foundational. Without the hard lessons in Philadelphia, Francona might never have become the calm, steady leader who helped break Boston’s 86-year curse. He won World Series titles in two of his first four seasons on the Red Sox bench. He went on to Cleveland and helped them win their first AL pennant since the late 1990s. Throughout his career, he has become one of the most respected managers of the modern era. Shelton hopes to travel a similar path. After his dismissal in Pittsburgh, he spent his first summer at home since his playing days reflecting on what went wrong and how he could approach things differently if given another chance. That process caught the attention of Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey, who has long admired Francona’s willingness to own his early missteps. “People that spend time reflecting on what they would do differently, I think give themselves a much better chance to learn from that experience,” Falvey said. “He gave very specific examples of things he would have done and would have handled differently, and I think that was a real strength of his in the process.” Falvey’s connection to Francona goes back to their years together in Cleveland. He saw firsthand how Francona’s lessons from Philadelphia shaped his leadership style with the Guardians. Francona often credited that difficult first job for giving him the humility and adaptability that defined his later success. It is no surprise that Falvey saw something similar in Shelton’s reflections. Shelton has already acknowledged that managing a big-league club is an entirely different challenge from any previous baseball role. “When I left here, I thought I was really prepared to manage because I’d been given a lot of responsibility,” Shelton said. “But you’re never ready until you sit in the chair. You’re never ready until different things come your way. I think those experiences are what help build you moving forward.” That mindset aligns perfectly with how Francona rebuilt his own career. He embraced his mistakes, surrounded himself with trusted voices, and developed a better understanding of how to manage both players and expectations. Shelton, too, will need to show growth in how he connects with his roster, handles bullpen decisions, and navigates the ups and downs of a long season. The Twins are betting that the man who once helped shape their hitters and culture as a bench coach can now lead a clubhouse that has failed to live up to expectations in recent seasons. It will not be easy, but history shows that baseball often rewards those who learn from failure. Francona’s career proves that the first opportunity does not define a manager. Derek Shelton’s second chance in Minnesota will be his opportunity to prove that the lessons from Pittsburgh can pave the way for long-term success. What do you think? Can Shelton follow Francona’s path and turn lessons from his first job into lasting success with the Twins? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images The Dodgers are World Series champions once again, and for the Twins, the offseason has officially begun. As teams around the league prepare for free agency and the winter meetings, Minnesota finds itself in an uncomfortable but familiar position. Payroll is expected to dip, the roster is in transition, and the front office will have to balance short-term competitiveness with long-term sustainability. That means trades are coming. The Twins already sold off several controllable pieces at the 2025 trade deadline, and more could follow this winter. Here are the five most likely Twins players to be traded as the club retools for the future. 5. Trevor Larnach, OF Larnach was shopped at last year’s deadline, but he ultimately stayed put. Either the Twins didn’t receive an offer they liked, or other teams were hesitant to bet on his inconsistency. Now, as he enters arbitration with an estimated salary of $4.7 million, Minnesota faces a decision. Larnach was worth $11.6 million in on-field value during 2024, but that number plummeted to $1.7 million in 2025, according to FanGraphs. The Twins could hold on and hope he rebounds, but that gamble might not align with a payroll-conscious front office. He has enough raw power and corner-outfield defense to attract interest, and if the Twins can find a team willing to take a chance, Larnach could finally be on the move. 4. Royce Lewis, 3B Lewis was supposed to be the cornerstone of the next great Twins lineup. His electric rookie season in 2023 offered a glimpse of that potential. But the two seasons since have been a frustrating mix of injuries, inconsistency, and unfulfilled expectations. In 2025, he played a career-high 106 games but posted an 83 OPS+, a career low. Minnesota’s offense has been among the worst in the league the past two years, and Lewis has often symbolized that decline. His trade value has taken a hit, but sometimes a change of scenery benefits both player and team. Trading Lewis would be a bold move, signaling the front office's willingness to shake up the core. The Twins need offensive stability, and Lewis’s uncertainty may make him expendable in the right deal. 3. Ryan Jeffers, C Jeffers has quietly become one of the more productive catchers in the American League (105 OPS+ since 2024), but the clock is ticking on his time in Minnesota. He’s entering his final year of team control, and with the Twins unlikely to extend him or contend in 2026, his trade value may never be higher than it is right now. However, the Twins have few options behind the plate if Jeffers is off the roster. Catcher trades at the deadline are always tricky. Learning a new pitching staff on the fly is no easy task, so if Minnesota intends to move Jeffers, this offseason is the logical time to do it. Teams looking for a veteran backstop with power and leadership could make compelling offers. The Twins would have to find other veteran options to take the reins with Jeffers out of the picture. 2. Joe Ryan, RHP Few players have had their names pop up in trade rumors more than Ryan. Reports swirled last July that he might be part of the Twins’ trade deadline sell-off, but he remained in Minneapolis. The situation feels unsustainable. Ryan is under team control through 2027 and will earn far less than his on-field value through arbitration, making him a cost-efficient asset for pitching-hungry contenders. The Twins may be hesitant to move their All-Star starter, but that same logic could make him the centerpiece of a trade that replenishes their farm system. If he isn’t dealt this winter, expect his name to resurface again by the 2026 trade deadline. 1. Pablo López, RHP This is the big one. López is owed $21.75 million in each of the next two seasons, which would be a bargain for most teams but may be too steep for the cost-conscious Twins. López has been the ace they hoped for when they traded Luis Arraez to get him, but the reality of Minnesota’s financial outlook could make him their most valuable trade chip. If the Twins believe contention is unlikely in the next two years, trading López now would allow them to maximize his value and begin a deeper reset. Contenders across the league would line up for a playoff-caliber starter with swing-and-miss stuff. It would be a painful move, but one that might define this front office’s offseason strategy. The Twins enter the winter with difficult choices and limited flexibility. Moving on from players like López, Ryan, or Lewis would not be easy, but staying the course might not be an option either. As the offseason unfolds, Minnesota will look to strike a balance between retooling and rebuilding, an act that could reshape the organization for years to come. Do you agree with the rankings above? Who should the Twins trade this winter? Who will the Twins trade this winter? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © John Hefti-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins are expected to dump salary this winter, and the San Francisco Giants are expected to be aggressive. With franchise legend Buster Posey now overseeing baseball operations, the team appears ready to make significant moves to return to contention. Ownership has given Posey the green light to pursue major trades and free-agent signings, and pitching should be near the top of his list. One name that could make sense for the Giants is Twins starter Joe Ryan, a California native. The right-hander is coming off the best season of his young career and has become an intriguing target for clubs looking to add a playoff-caliber starter. Revisiting a Familiar Name When the Twins put their roster through its own round of right-sizing at this July’s trade deadline, Ryan was one of the few regulars who remained in Minnesota. There were rumors that he had been traded to the Red Sox, but that never came to fruition. However, as the hot stove begins to crackle, his name is resurfacing in trade speculation. Ryan’s profile suits the needs of the Giants (or any contenting team): a controllable starter who provides reliability and value, without the cost of a frontline ace. Ryan, 28, posted a 3.42 ERA (125 ERA+) across 171 innings in 2025, while striking out 194 batters. He’s under team control for two more seasons, making him a cost-effective option for any contender that values stability in the middle of the rotation. With Robbie Ray and Logan Webb at the top of the Giants’ staff, Ryan would slide comfortably into the No. 3 spot, forming a potent trio that could carry the club through the rigors of a 162-game season. A Match Built on Prospect Depth The Giants’ farm system was MLB Pipeline’s most improved system in its last rankings update. It is deep in young infield talent, which could entice Minnesota’s front office. High-ceiling shortstops Josuar Gonzalez and Jhonny Level headline the type of return that could make a Ryan deal worthwhile. Gonzalez, 18, is one of the more athletic shortstops in the lower levels of the minors, flashing elite defensive instincts and emerging power. MLB Pipeline currently ranks him as San Francisco’s second-best prospect, and he was considered the best position player in the 2025 international signing period. Last season, he hit .288/.404/.455 with a 129 wRC+ in the Dominican Summer League. His speed and improving bat-to-ball skills could make him a long-term fit up the middle, but he’s a long way from impacting the big-league roster. Level, an 18-year-old shortstop, has shown an advanced approach at the plate, with a developing ability to impact the baseball. In 2025, he came Stateside and hit .269/.360/.436 (good for a 109 wRC+), while reaching Low-A as a teenager. He is under six feet tall, but has shown an ability to drive the ball to all fields. He has speed and athleticism that should allow him to stick at an up-the-middle defensive position. Both players would help the Twins replenish a farm system that needs infield depth after years of aggressive trades. Beyond position players, San Francisco could also offer one of its young arms to fill Ryan’s rotation spot in the near future. Landen Roupp and Hayden Birdsong each offer an intriguing mix of control and upside. Roupp’s polished arsenal and ability to limit hard contact could make him an MLB-ready contributor by 2026. The 26-year-old posted a 3.80 ERA with a 105 ERA+ and a 21.4 K% in 106 2/3 innings. He is under team control through 2030. Birdsong’s fastball-slider combination gives him the look of a future mid-rotation starter with strikeout potential. His 28.4% whiff rate on opposing batters' swings ranked in the 74th percentile, with his slider and changeup both above 30%. His overall numbers don’t scream frontline starter (4.80 ERA with a 1.49 WHIP), but he is nearly three years younger than Roupp. He is also under team control through the 2030 season. What a Deal Could Mean for Both Clubs For the Giants, landing Ryan would solidify the top of their rotation and create much-needed balance behind Webb and Ray. It also fits Posey’s plan to modernize San Francisco’s roster with a mix of established veterans and cost-controlled contributors. For the Twins, moving Ryan would be about continuing their roster reset, while replenishing the farm system with talent that aligns with their next competitive window. Minnesota’s front office has shown a willingness to move established players if the return facilitates long-term success, and a Giants package headlined by young infielders and an MLB-ready pitcher could check that box. Ryan’s trade value is at its peak, and with multiple teams seeking dependable starters, Minnesota is positioned to take advantage. If the Twins decide it’s time to cash in on their consistent right-hander, the Giants might be the perfect partner. What do you think? Should the Twins explore a Joe Ryan trade, and do the Giants have the right mix of talent to make it happen? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of John Bonnes The Twins formally introduced Derek Shelton on Tuesday as the team’s next manager, bringing him back to Minnesota after a five-and-a-half-year stint leading the Pittsburgh Pirates. Shelton was a member of Rocco Baldelli’s original coaching staff in 2019, and now returns to a much different Twins organization—one trying to reset after a flurry of trades and disappointing ends to the last two seasons. The question now is simple: was this the right hire for where the franchise stands? The Pros Shelton’s return comes with several clear positives. First and foremost, he is familiar with the Twins organization and its existing infrastructure. He understands the analytical approach the front office values and has established relationships with several players and staff members. That continuity could help smooth what might otherwise be a rocky transition. During his time in Pittsburgh, Shelton worked through an extended rebuild. He understands the challenges of developing young talent at the major-league level, while keeping a clubhouse motivated. With the Twins’ roster turning over and several prospects poised to debut in 2026, that experience could prove valuable. Another notable strength is his background as a hitting coach. Before managing the Pirates, Shelton spent time as the hitting coach for both the Rays and Guardians, earning a reputation for improving plate discipline and approach. Minnesota’s offense struggled with inconsistency in 2025, so his input could help reignite bats that have gone quiet. Finally, Shelton’s even-keeled demeanor may help stabilize a team that has faced its share of turbulence. He’s regarded as a strong communicator who values collaboration—a trait that often resonates in the Twins’ organizational culture. The Cons Of course, the hire is not without its drawbacks. Shelton is not a new voice or an outsider who can bring a fresh perspective to a club that appears to have lost some of its edge. In some ways, this is a continuation of the same philosophy, rather than a bold new direction. His track record in Pittsburgh also raises questions. While the Pirates improved modestly during his tenure, they never posted a winning record under his watch. That doesn’t necessarily fall squarely on Shelton’s shoulders, but it does beg the question of whether he’s capable of elevating a team beyond the sum of its parts. The Twins also passed on the chance to hire a younger or first-time manager who might’ve brought a new energy or approach to a roster in transition. Names like Stephen Vogt have shown that untested candidates can thrive quickly with the proper support. Instead, Minnesota opted for a safe, familiar choice, one that might not spark much excitement among fans. There’s also the risk that Shelton’s calm style could border on complacency if things go south. The Twins need a leader who can push players to take the next step, not merely guide them through the motions of a rebuild. The Final Grade Overall, the Shelton hire feels solid but unspectacular. It's a move rooted in familiarity rather than risk. He checks many boxes the Twins value, but it’s fair to wonder if this decision will actually change the team’s trajectory. Grade: B- What do you think of the Twins bringing Derek Shelton back to Minnesota? Is he the right fit for this roster, or should the front office have looked elsewhere? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Lou Capozzola-Imagn Images When LaTroy Hawkins talks about pitching, there’s wisdom that comes from experience. It's not just the kind that can be measured in spin rates or extension data, but the kind that comes from 21 years in the big leagues—from being on the mound when things go wrong, and from learning how to make them right again. If the Twins are looking to fill their bullpen coach position, Hawkins should be at the top of their list. Since returning to the organization in 2017, Hawkins has become one of the most respected voices in the Twins’ player development system. He’s worked closely with pitchers in the upper minors and has a deep understanding of how the organization operates, both on the field and behind the scenes. When he coached the USA Baseball 18U national team in 2023, he got an even better sense of how today’s young pitchers think and train. He’s comfortable with modern analytics, but he’s also one of the few people who can still bridge the gap between data and humanity. “Throwing 100 miles an hour, RPMs and vertical break—we’re so caught up in them,” Hawkins said. “We forget there’s a human element to it, the mental part of the game.” That mindset is precisely what the Twins bullpen could use. The organization’s pitching infrastructure is strong, but even the best analytics department can’t account for what’s going on in a player’s head. Hawkins has lived that side of the game. He knows the pressure of a bases-loaded jam in Yankee Stadium, the grind of a long season, and the toll it takes on a player’s confidence. He believes that part of coaching is helping players navigate those challenges, just as much as refining their mechanics. “My value wasn’t in teaching guys how to throw two-seam fastballs or sliders or a curveball or a changeup,” Hawkins said. “My value was in teaching the young guys from the neck up.” From Struggling Starter to Bullpen Mainstay Hawkins’s credibility comes not just from his longevity, but from his evolution. When he debuted with the Twins in 1995, he was expected to be a key part of the rotation. The results, however, didn’t match the expectations. Over five seasons as a starter, Hawkins posted an ERA north of 6.00 (79 ERA+) and struggled to find consistency. Many players in that situation fade out of the league entirely. Hawkins, instead, found reinvention. The move to the bullpen in the early 2000s changed everything. Freed from the demands of starting every fifth day, Hawkins was able to focus on his strengths: a lively fastball, sharp command, and a calm presence in pressure moments. He went on to pitch for more than a decade after that transition, logging over 1,000 career appearances and earning the trust of managers across the league. That transformation is precisely the kind of example the Twins could use right now. With several pitchers in the organization, including some who have struggled to stick as starters, a voice like Hawkins could help them embrace new roles without seeing it as a step backward. He understands how difficult that transition can be mentally, and how it can ultimately extend a career rather than shorten it. A Perfect Fit for a New Era The Twins have prided themselves on developing arms through technology, but the next step might be finding ways to connect that technology with the human side of the game. Hawkins embodies that balance. His influence has already helped young pitchers throughout the system feel more confident, more accountable, and more connected to what it means to be a professional. He’s also made it clear that he wants to stay with the organization that drafted him back in 1991. “Twin for life” isn’t just a slogan for Hawkins. It’s a belief. And if the right opportunity opens up soon, he’s ready to take it. For the Twins, that opportunity may have arrived. A bullpen coach with Hawkins’s blend of empathy, experience, and organizational familiarity could be the missing link between development and execution. After all, it’s not every day that a team has the chance to add a coach who’s both fluent in modern metrics and fluent in the human side of baseball. Hawkins has spent years helping Twins pitchers find their way. Now, the Twins have a chance to let him do it from the dugout (or bullpen). Should Hawkins take on a larger role with the Twins next season? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Brad Rempel-Imagn Images The Dodgers are World Series champions once again, and for the Twins, the offseason has officially begun. As teams around the league prepare for free agency and the Winter Meetings, Minnesota finds itself in an uncomfortable but familiar position. Payroll is expected to dip, the roster is in transition, and the front office will have to balance short-term competitiveness with long-term sustainability. That means trades are coming. The Twins already sold off several controllable pieces at the 2025 trade deadline, and more could follow this winter. National lists see the Twins as rebuilding (or “retooling”, if you ask the front office), which means they are open for business. MLB Trade Rumors released their top 40 trade candidates over the weekend, and three Twins made their top 10. Here are the three most likely Twins players to be traded as the club shifts their focus toward the future. Ryan Jeffers, C MLB Trade Rumors Rank: 9 Jeffers has quietly become one of the more productive catchers in the American League (105 OPS+ since 2024), but the clock is ticking on his time in Minnesota. He’s entering his final year of team control, and with the Twins unlikely to extend him or contend in 2026, his trade value may never be higher than it is right now. However, the Twins have few options behind the plate if Jeffers is off the roster. There are few free-agent catching options this winter. Catcher trades at the deadline are always tricky. Learning a new pitching staff on the fly is no easy task, so if Minnesota intends to move Jeffers, this offseason is the logical time to do it. Teams looking for a veteran backstop with power and leadership could make compelling offers. The Twins would have to find other veteran options to take the reins with Jeffers out of the picture. Joe Ryan, RHP MLB Trade Rumors Rank: 2 (Behind Washington’s MacKenzie Gore) Few players have had their names pop up in trade rumors more than Ryan. Reports swirled last July that he might be part of the Twins’ trade deadline sell-off, but he remained in Minneapolis. The situation feels unsustainable. Ryan is under team control through 2027 and will earn far less than his on-field value through arbitration, making him a cost-efficient asset for pitching-hungry contenders. The Twins may be hesitant to move their All-Star starter, but that same logic could make him the centerpiece of a trade that replenishes their farm system. If he isn’t dealt this winter, expect his name to resurface again by the 2026 trade deadline. The Red Sox were interested in Ryan in July, but the offseason should find a longer list of teams interested in cost-controlled starting pitching. Pablo López, RHP MLB Trade Rumors Rank: 6 This is the big one (as far as salary goes). López is owed $21.75 million in each of the next two seasons, which would be a bargain for most teams but may be too steep for the cost-conscious Twins. López has been the ace they hoped for when they traded Luis Arraez to get him, but the reality of Minnesota’s financial outlook could make him their most valuable trade chip. If the Twins believe contention is unlikely for the next two years, trading López now would allow them to maximize his value and begin a deeper reset. Contenders across the league would line up for a playoff-caliber starter with swing-and-miss stuff. Some teams might try to lowball the Twins since he is coming off a season wherein he missed time with injury. It would be a painful move, but one that might define this front office’s offseason strategy. The Twins enter the winter with difficult choices and limited flexibility. Moving on from players like López, Ryan, or Jeffers would not be easy, but staying the course might not be an option, either. As the offseason unfolds, Minnesota will attempt to strike a balance between retooling and rebuilding. The extent of their success at that could reshape the organization for years to come. Do you agree with the rankings above? Who should the Twins trade this winter? Who will the Twins trade this winter? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Jerome Miron-Imagn Images The Twins' bullpen was once a reliable force. Between 2022 and 2024, Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax anchored the late innings, while role players like Caleb Thielbar, Cole Sands, and Brock Stewart provided valuable depth. But after the 2025 trade deadline, that group is mostly gone. Minnesota dealt several relievers with years of team control to retool the farm system, leaving the bullpen thin and uncertain heading into 2026. Still, there is a path to rebuilding an effective unit without breaking the bank. The Twins have internal arms with upside, a few conversion candidates who could thrive in shorter stints, and affordable veterans on the open market who can provide stability. This is how they can build a bullpen capable of competing next season. Returning Pieces Justin Topa: The Twins traded for Topa before the 2024 season, hoping to bolster their late-inning depth, and when healthy, he showed flashes of being that dependable arm. His sinker-slider combo generates weak contact, and he has experience in high-leverage spots, which was one of the reasons the Twins targeted him in the Jorge Polanco trade. In 2025, he ranked in the 88th percentile for Barrel % and above the 72nd percentile in BB% and GB%. If he can avoid the injuries that limited his usage, Topa could easily slide into a setup or closer role. Cole Sands: Sands quietly became one of the most reliable relievers in the organization in 2024. However, he took a step back in the first half of 2025 before showing a better performance following the trade deadline. His Offspeed Run Value ranked in the 95th percentile, led by his split-finger that was worth seven runs and held batters to a .184 SLG. The Twins will need late-inning options early in the year as roles solidify, and Sands’ versatility fits that need perfectly. Kody Funderburk: Funderburk’s deceptive delivery and sweeping slider make him a tough matchup for left-handed hitters. Last season, he held lefties to a .292 SLG, which was nearly 130 points lower than what righties posted. While command can waver, his ability to miss bats from the left side gives the bullpen valuable balance. His Barrel % and Groundball % would have ranked among the league’s best had he had enough innings to qualify. With more consistency, he could take on a larger role as a sixth- or seventh-inning option in 2026. Starters Turned Relievers Zebby Matthews – The Next Griffin Jax? Like Jax before him, Zebby Matthews may find his long-term fit in the bullpen. He has the command and competitive edge to attack hitters aggressively, and his fastball could tick up in shorter outings (96.3 mph in 2025). He is arguably a two-pitch pitcher with his fastball and slider being his best weapons. If he cuts out the other pitches in his repertoire, he may be more effective out of the bullpen. Matthews has spent his development years as a starter, but a move to relief could accelerate his path to the majors while helping Minnesota fill a significant need. Connor Prielipp – The Next Jhoan Duran? Duran was considered a starter throughout his minor league career before injuries forced the Twins to make a shift. The Twins have waited patiently for Prielipp to recover and rediscover the form that made him a top draft pick. His electric slider and mid-90s fastball can be devastating weapons when unleashed in one- or two-inning bursts. Last season, he made 24 appearances (23 starts) and posted a 4.03 ERA with a 27.0 K%. Much like Duran, Prielipp’s path might not be linear, but if he embraces a relief role, he could emerge as a dominant late-inning force by midseason. Travis Adams – A Max Effort Option Adams has spent most of his professional career as a control-oriented starter, but the Twins moved him to a different role last season, with him pitching every four days. A switch to relief could unlock a different version of his arsenal. Instead of pacing himself through multiple innings, Adams could focus on emptying the tank in one frame. His slider had a 32 Whiff% and his fastball had a 26 Whiff% with an average velocity of 94.8 mph. A sharper slider and increased velocity could turn him into a valuable multi-use arm who can handle leverage or mop-up duties as needed. Free Agents Caleb Thielbar – A Familiar Face Returns If the Twins want a veteran presence who knows the organization and thrives in big spots, Thielbar would be a natural reunion. Even as he sits in his late 30s, his ability to command his breaking ball and neutralize left-handed hitters makes him a steadying force. Bringing Thielbar back could also provide leadership for younger pitchers adjusting to life in the bullpen. The Twins could also turn to other veteran free agent lefties like Taylor Rogers or Danny Coulombe. Minor League Flyer – A Smart Gamble Every year, teams find undervalued arms who turn into reliable contributors. Think of this as finding the next Brock Stewart. Minnesota could take a low-risk chance on someone like Stewart, who has shown flashes of potential when healthy. A minor league deal with an invite to spring training could uncover the next breakout bullpen piece without straining payroll flexibility. Multiple players who fit this mold will likely be in camp with the Twins. The Blueprint for 2026 The Twins do not need to recreate the Duran-Jax pairing overnight. What they need is functionality, flexibility, and a plan that blends experience with upside. Topa and Sands can handle leverage early. Funderburk and Adams provide innings stability. Matthews and Prielipp represent the next wave of internal talent, while a veteran like Thielbar and a flyer addition round out the mix. The 2026 bullpen might not grab national headlines in April. Still, with patience and development, it could once again evolve into one of the American League’s more reliable groups by season’s end. Minnesota has rebuilt a bullpen before, and it can do it again. Can the group outlined above compete in the AL Central? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Matt Blewett-Imagn Images When the Minnesota Twins signed Christian Vazquez to a three-year, $30 million contract before the 2023 season, the move was meant to add experience and stability behind the plate. Ryan Jeffers was still viewed as a developing catcher with offensive potential, but he lacked the track record to be handed a full-time role. Vázquez, fresh off years of playoff experience with the Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros, seemed like the perfect complement. However, the vision never materialized. Over the course of his Twins tenure, Vázquez’s offensive struggles outweighed his defensive reputation. He had an 85 OPS+ before signing with Minnesota, a reasonable total for a strong defensive catcher. During his Twins tenure, he posted a 58 OPS+, a total tough for a manager to continue to use. Besides the non-existent bat, his defensive metrics declined more rapidly than expected. He ranked in the 75th percentile or higher in Blocks Above Avg, CS Above Avg, and Framing during the 2023 season. Last year, his CS Above Avg (68th percentile) and Framing (27th percentile) started showing his age. Now, as Minnesota looks ahead to 2026, the question has come full circle. The Twins once again need to identify a reliable backup catcher. The irony is hard to ignore. After three years of trying to balance the position, the team could find itself revisiting the same name to fill that role once again. Why the Twins Might Need Him As things stand, Jeffers is the only established big-league catcher on the Twins roster. He continues to be one of the AL’s best-hitting catchers, but every team needs a dependable second option. Catchers wear down quickly, and even the best require regular rest to stay fresh over a long season. The Twins have used Jeffers and Vazquez in a timeshare behind the plate, and it seems likely that Vazquez will be used in a lesser role as he nears the end of his career. The issue is that Minnesota’s internal options are thin. Mickey Gasper and Jhonny Pereda saw playing time over the season’s final weeks, but neither are a long-term solution. Other minor league options like Ricardo Olivar or Noah Cardenas profile more as Triple-A depth than reliable big-league backups. That leaves the front office with two realistic paths: bring back Vázquez or find another veteran through free agency or trade. Both routes carry risk, but Vázquez’s familiarity with the Twins’ pitching staff could be a key factor. He has already worked with most of the projected rotation and bullpen. That experience could be especially valuable with young arms like David Festa and Zebby Matthews potentially taking on more significant roles. What It Would Cost At the time the Twins signed him, Vázquez was one of the best catchers on the market. Minnesota’s three-year, $30 million deal was one of the largest commitments ever made to a catcher in franchise history. The front office justified the contract by emphasizing Vázquez’s strong defensive resume, postseason experience, and leadership qualities. But those strengths have faded. Now, the situation is very different. Vázquez is entering the next phase of his career, likely as a part-time or backup option. His offensive production has cratered, and most teams will view him as a low-cost signing rather than a potential starter. For the Twins, that could mean an opportunity to bring him back on a modest one-year contract (something in the range of $2–4 million) if both sides are open to a reunion. This type of deal would align with the Twins’ payroll flexibility heading into the offseason. The team is expected to operate with a reduced budget so that every dollar will matter. A low-risk, short-term deal for a familiar veteran might be more appealing than spending resources on an untested free agent or parting with talent in a trade. Freezer Burn and Familiarity There is no denying that a reunion with Vázquez carries some baggage. Fans remember his underwhelming performance and may not be eager to see the team revisit a partnership that never quite clicked. The concept of “freezer burn” fits here, something that once seemed appetizing but didn’t age well over time. Still, there is a case to be made for comfort and continuity. Vázquez’s knowledge of the pitching staff, game preparation habits, and familiarity with the Twins’ defensive system could all be helpful in a supporting role. His veteran presence might help guide younger pitchers as they transition into full-time major league contributors. While there is little upside remaining in his game, there is also value in dependability. The Twins know what they are getting with Vázquez. He is a steady professional who can handle pitchers, call a game, and step in when needed. Sometimes, that predictability is worth more than taking a gamble on an unknown alternative. The Decision Ahead Ultimately, the Twins’ decision will come down to balancing comfort against opportunity. Bringing back Vázquez would offer stability, but it would also mean passing on the chance to try something new. The front office must decide whether experience outweighs the potential upside of a fresh face behind the plate. If the price is right and the market remains limited, Vázquez could make sense as a short-term solution. His familiarity with the organization might help smooth the transition into another season of roster turnover. However, if Minnesota prefers to move in a new direction, there will be veteran catchers available through free agency who could fill the role just as effectively. Either way, the Twins cannot afford to enter next season without a dependable plan behind Jeffers. Whether that means turning back to a familiar veteran or exploring a new path, the backup catcher question remains one of the quieter but more important decisions of the offseason. Should the Twins consider bringing back Vázquez? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © RVR Photos-Imagn Images When Twins fans think of Kirby Puckett and Game 6, one image usually comes to mind. It is the unforgettable leap against the Metrodome plexiglass and the iconic swing that sent the baseball soaring into the left-center field seats, followed by the famous call, “And we’ll see you tomorrow night.” That moment immortalized Puckett as a franchise legend, the face of Minnesota’s greatest baseball memories. But four years earlier, before the national spotlight fully embraced him, Puckett had already authored a Game 6 performance that changed the course of franchise history. It did not end with fireworks or walk-off jubilation, but without it, there might not have been a 1991 moment to remember at all. A Game the Twins Could Not Afford to Lose The 1987 World Series was hanging in the balance. Minnesota trailed St. Louis three games to two and returned home to the Metrodome needing back-to-back wins to capture its first championship. The atmosphere was tense, the crowd hungry, and the Twins’ offense searching for a spark. That spark turned out to be Puckett. From the start, Puckett’s energy set the tone. He reached base in all five of his plate appearances, going 4-for-4 with a walk and a stolen base. His trademark blend of hustle and instinct was on full display. Every time he got on, something good happened for the Twins. He scored four times, tying a World Series record for runs in a single game. In a contest where Minnesota needed every ounce of offense, Puckett seemed to embody the will to win that defined the 1987 team. Turning the Tide in the Fifth Perhaps Puckett’s most crucial moment came in the bottom of the fifth inning. The Twins were down 5-2 and in danger of letting the series slip away. Puckett led off with a single, setting in motion a four-run rally that electrified the Metrodome. Gary Gaetti drove in Puckett with a double and Don Baylor followed with a two-run homer. Puckett’s speed, timing, and baserunning aggression helped Minnesota claw its way back, flipping the momentum and silencing a St. Louis team that had appeared poised to celebrate soon. The Twins never looked back after that inning. They took the lead and held it, powered by the heartbeat of their lineup. It was not the dramatic finish of 1991, but it was every bit as essential. Puckett’s relentless effort and perfect night at the plate ensured there would be a Game 7, and history would remember what came next: Frank Viola’s masterful performance, a parade through downtown Minneapolis, and a World Series pennant that waves proudly above Target Field. The Birth of a Legend Game 6 of 1987 marked the moment Puckett became more than an All-Star. It was his arrival as a postseason force, a player who thrived when the lights burned brightest. He was still only 27 years old, but his leadership and spark already defined the Twins’ identity. Four years later, he would top himself in legendary fashion, cementing his place in baseball lore with another Game 6 masterpiece. But before that moment ever happened, Puckett’s first great Game 6 helped write the first chapter of Minnesota’s championship story. It was a performance that kept a dream alive and proved that when the Twins needed him most, Puckett was always ready to deliver. What do you remember about Game 6 in 1987? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Image courtesy of © Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins enter the offseason facing a self-inflicted challenge: rebuilding a bullpen that was stripped down at the trade deadline. In an effort to retool the organization, the team traded away Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, and Louis Varland (all pitchers with multiple years of team control). The moves left a glaring hole in the late innings, and raised questions about how the club plans to protect leads in 2026. While the front office may pursue young, controllable arms, there is also value in bringing back trusted veterans who have worn a Twins uniform before. Three familiar left-handers are all free agents this winter and could provide steady production, leadership, and perhaps trade value later in the season. Danny Coulombe: A Dependable Option When Healthy Coulombe has made a career out of defying expectations. The 36-year-old lefty was dominant in his time with Minnesota last season, posting a 1.16 ERA across 31 innings before being traded to the Rangers. His time in Texas was rockier, with a 5.25 ERA in 12 innings, but shoulder fatigue and a previous forearm strain limited his effectiveness. Even with his modest velocity (his four-seamer and sinker average around 90 mph), Coulombe continues to find ways to get hitters out. Since 2020, he has produced a 2.60 ERA over 173 1/3 innings, supported by strong strikeout and walk rates. He thrives on command, deception, and a sharp breaking ball that keeps hitters guessing. Coulombe made $3 million last season, and another one-year deal in that range would make sense for both sides. If healthy, he could again be a stabilizing presence in the middle innings and a mentor to younger arms. Taylor Rogers: A Familiar Face with Proven Results Rogers’s tenure with the Twins ended in a 2022 trade, but his consistency since then makes him an appealing reunion candidate. He peaked as an All-Star with the Twins, but has been a steady contributor over the last three seasons, posting a 3.16 ERA with a 26.4% strikeout rate since 2023. His velocity has dipped (his average sinker now sits around 92.7 mph, down from 95 mph during his prime), but he has adapted well, relying more on location and his signature sweeping slider. Though teams haven’t used him in many high-leverage spots recently, Rogers still handles left-handed hitters well and limits hard contact. At 35, Rogers brings experience, composure, and familiarity with the Twins organization. For a bullpen seeking stability and leadership, his presence could help bridge the gap between young relievers and the big moments late in games. Caleb Thielbar: The Steady Veteran Returns? Thielbar has been one of the best stories in Twins history, and his performance with the Cubs in 2025 showed that he still has something left in the tank. The 39-year-old southpaw posted a 2.64 ERA in 58 innings and tied for the team lead with 25 holds. His strong command and ability to attack hitters from both sides of the plate make him a reliable option, even as he nears 40. Thielbar’s 2024 season was forgettable (5.32 ERA, 4.10 FIP), but outside of that blip, he has consistently posted ERAs below 3.50 since 2020. He doesn’t overpower hitters, but his control and composure fit perfectly into a bullpen needing reliable innings. A one-year deal seems likely, and few pitchers embody the perseverance and professionalism the Twins value more than Thielbar. A Smart and Sentimental Solution The Twins have multiple holes to fill, and rebuilding the bullpen from scratch will not be easy. Bringing back any of these three left-handers (or perhaps more than one) would add experience, versatility, and familiarity to a group that needs it. Each pitcher could handle late-inning work early in the season, while the team evaluates younger arms. If Minnesota falls out of contention by midseason, any of these veterans could become valuable trade chips at the deadline, much as they were in past years. The combination of low-cost contracts, consistent results, and familiarity with the organization makes them ideal candidates for short-term success and long-term flexibility. Reuniting with Coulombe, Rogers, or Thielbar would be a practical move for a team that needs dependable relief pitching to navigate the ups and downs of a transitional season. It might also make new skipper Derek Shelton feel more comfortable, not just to have trustworthy left-handed relief, but to see another gray beard or two in the clubhouse. Which southpaw makes the most sense for the Twins? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article