Cody Christie

The Twins pipeline continues to provide plenty of intrigue, across all levels. With new additions from the trade deadline and young bats starting to make noise, the organization saw strong performances from players with very different paths to Minnesota. Let’s dive into the week’s top standouts. 1B JP Smith II – Fort Myers Mighty Mussels How They Got Here: Smith, 20, joined the Twins as a 17th-round pick in the 2025 MLB Draft. He spent three collegiate seasons playing at Sacramento State, slashing .297/.372/.581. The young first baseman needs to hit for power during his professional career, because he is already near the bottom of the defensive spectrum. Thankfully, he has shown some early promise. Hitting the Hot Button: Smith’s college experience at the plate has been on display in Fort Myers this summer. He has hits in 10 of his first 13 professional games, including five multi-hit efforts. To start his career, Smith has gone 19-for-55, with five extra-base hits and three walks. He won FSL Player of the Week honors (Aug. 4-11) after slashing .478/.500/.913. Despite being a college player, he has been facing older pitchers in nearly 80% of his at-bats while posting a .928 OPS against them. RHP Mick Abel – St. Paul Saints How They Got Here: Abel, 23, was acquired from the Phillies at the trade deadline as part of the deal that sent Jhoan Duran to Philadelphia. The former first-round pick (15th overall in 2020) came to Minnesota with a big arm and frontline starter potential, though inconsistency had held him back with his previous club. Last season, he posted a 6.46 ERA with a 1.81 WHIP in 108 2/3 innings at Triple-A, where he was five years younger than the average age of the competition. Hitting the Hot Button: Abel has wasted little time making an impression in the Twins organization. In three starts, he has 15 1/3 innings pitched, allowing three runs on seven hits with a 23-to-6 strikeout-to-walk ratio. He’s held opponents to a .140 batting average and a .492 OPS in the hitter-friendly International League. His mid-90s fastball and sharp breaking ball overwhelmed hitters in his most recent outing, where he struck out a career-high 11 batters. The Twins believe a change of scenery and development tweaks (including adding a sweeper) could push him toward the ceiling that once made him one of the top pitching prospects in baseball. RHP Ryan Gallagher – Wichita Wind Surge How They Got Here: Gallagher, 22, came from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for Willi Castro. The Sacramento, Calif. native was selected by the Cubs in the sixth round of the 2024 MLB Draft out of UC-Santa Barbara. He did not make his professional debut until this season, and is currently ranked as Minnesota’s No. 16 prospect by MLB.com. He made 14 High-A starts with the Cubs and posted a 3.72 ERA with a 1.12 WHIP in 72 2/3 innings. Hitting the Hot Button: On Friday in Springfield, Gallagher delivered a strong outing for Wichita. The right-hander tossed six innings, allowing just two unearned runs on four hits with one walk and three strikeouts. It was another glimpse of the polished stuff and mound presence that made him appealing to the Twins at the deadline. In five Double-A starts this season, he has posted a 2.63 ERA with a 0.99 WHIP. With a projectable frame and improving command, Gallagher could move quickly through the system and position himself as a rotation option as early as mid-2026. The Twins’ system continues to show its depth, from late-round draftees like Smith flashing their upside to trade acquisitions like Abel and Gallagher making an immediate impact. As the organization balances developing talent with competing at the big-league level, these performances are a reminder that the next wave of contributors is already taking shape. Which performance stands out most in recent weeks? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

Catching depth has been a quiet strength for the Minnesota Twins in recent seasons, but it’s been tested in 2025. Christian Vázquez landed on the injured list with a shoulder infection, forcing Minnesota to dip into its reserves for the first time in three years. Jhonny Pereda, a recent waiver claim from Oakland, joined the roster alongside Mickey Gasper, who has extensive minor-league catching experience despite primarily being used in a utility role. The front office also made it clear at the trade deadline that catching was a priority. Eduardo Tait was acquired in the Jhoan Duran deal, and Enrique Jimenez arrived from San Diego in the Chris Paddack trade. Those moves added to an already layered system stocked with intriguing talent at every level. Here’s a look at the organization’s catching depth, from Triple-A St. Paul to Low-A Fort Myers. Triple-A St. Paul Saints Jhonny Pereda – Pereda was claimed off waivers from the Athletics organization last month and already has been called up to the Twins for one stint. Since joining the Saints, he is hitting .393/.500/.679 with five extra-base hits in eight games. He won’t continue to hit at that level with the Saints, but has a .352 OBP in nearly 3,000 plate appearances in the minor leagues. Pereda adds solid organizational depth at a position where the Twins will need options in 2026. Patrick Winkel – Drafted in the ninth round in 2021 out of UConn, Winkel has built his value on solid receiving skills and a steady presence behind the plate. In 2025, he’s posted a .217/.280/.443 slash line, while throwing out 16% of attempted base stealers. His OPS has risen by over 80 points this season as he repeats Triple-A. His experience calling games makes him a valuable option, if the Twins need another emergency promotion. Noah Cardenas – Drafted in the eighth round in 2021 from UCLA, he’s split time between Double- and Triple-A. He’s shown more offensive consistency this season, hitting .241 with a .831 OPS through mid-August. Last season, he struggled in the Texas League, with a .587 OPS in 75 games. His college experience and offensive improvements could make him a backup option at the big-league level in 2026. Double-A Wichita Wind Surge Ricardo Olivar – Olivar has been known for his bat over the last two seasons, as he's posted an aggregate OPS above .800. Signed out of Venezuela in 2018, he’s hitting .273 with 26 extra-base hits and a .797 OPS in 81 games this season. Also, he’s making strides in controlling the running game, with a career-high 19% rate of catching opposing baserunners attempting to steal. His versatility adds to his roster value, as he has played outfield in the past. Nate Baez – A 12th-round pick in 2022 out of Arizona State, Baez split time between Cedar Rapids and Wichita this season. His 2025 season features a .285 batting average with gap-to-gap doubles power and a walk rate near 12%. His game-calling continues to improve as he moves up the organizational ladder. He also plays first base regularly to keep his bat in the lineup. Andrew Cossetti – Known for his bat-first profile, Cossetti has lived up to that billing this season. The St. Joseph’s product has 23 extra-base hits and has improved his OPS by 125 points compared to 2024. He’s repeating Double-A, where he is a year older than the average age of the competition. High-A Cedar Rapids Kernels Eduardo Tait – The centerpiece from Philadelphia in the Jhoan Duran trade, Tait is only 18 years old, but already showing an advanced feel for hitting. During the 2025 season, he has hit .251/.313/.428, with 23 doubles and 13 home runs in 93 games. Those numbers might not pop off the page, but he’s also been pushed aggressively and has yet to face a younger pitcher this season. Scouts rave about his arm strength and raw power projection. The Twins hope he is their catcher of the future. Khadim Diaw – The Twins’ third-round pick in 2024 out of Loyola Marymount, Diaw entered the season as one of the top catching prospects in the system. He’s continued to put himself on the prospect map at High-A, posting a .297/.450/.445 slash line with 10 extra-base hits in 42 games. His athleticism behind the plate and improved blocking skills make him a potential long-term answer. Poncho Ruiz – Signed as a non-drafted free agent in 2023, Ruiz provided steady production for Fort Myers to start the year with an .813 OPS in 31 games. Since being promoted, he’s been getting on base nearly 35% of the time, with modest power (.664 OPS). Defensively, he has cut down over 20% of would-be base stealers. Luis Hernandez – Hernandez spent four years as a college catcher before signing with the Twins in July. He went 4-for-9 (.444 BA) with three walks and three strikeouts in four games with Fort Myers, before an injury at Cedar Rapids forced a promotion. He’s very early in his professional career, so there is a lot to learn. His college experience should help to add catching depth to the system, for however long he sticks around. Jefferson Valladares – The Twins selected Valladares in the Triple-A phase of the 2024 Rule 5 Draft from the Los Angeles Dodgers organization. Over the last two seasons, he has averaged 22 games per year due to multiple injuries. In 2025, he is slashing .186/.268/.361, with 11 doubles and seven home runs in 59 games. At 23 years old, he is slightly older than his level of competition, so the relative lack of progress here could imperil his status on the organizational roster this winter. Low-A Fort Myers Mighty Mussels Enrique Jimenez – Acquired from the Tigers in the Chris Paddack deal, Jiménez is a switch-hitting catcher who won’t turn 20 until November. The Tigers had been playing him in the rookie leagues, but the Twins bumped him to Fort Myers after the trade. He has a strong approach at the plate (.356 OBP) and shows above-average arm strength (29.0 CS%). Evaluators believe his offensive approach will improve as he gets more pro at-bats. Daniel Pena – Signed out of Venezuela in 2021, Pena has been splitting time between catching and first base. Offensively, he’s struggled with consistency (.570 OPS) even though he is repeating Low-A. He’s faced older pitchers in over 90% of his plate appearances, so he could show improvement when facing same-age competition. Ian Daugherty – The Twins signed Daugherty in July following a four-year college career playing for Oklahoma State, where he posted an .841 OPS. In two games for Fort Myers, he has gone 2-for-7 with a home run and two RBIs. His college experience in the Big 12 should help him work with young pitchers in the low minors. Ranking the Best Catcher by Level Triple-A: Cardenas – His improved bat in 2025 gives him the edge over Winkel as a short-term call-up candidate. Pereda might have the inside track on a role with the 2026 Twins. Double-A: Olivar – His ability to contribute offensively while handling pitchers makes him a high-upside name to watch. He could be a fast riser if injuries strike. High-A: Tait – While young, Tait already shows an advanced approach and could move quickly if he continues to adjust to High-A pitching. He's one of baseball's best catching prospects. Low-A: Jimenez – His age, tools, and athleticism give him the inside track as a future everyday MLB catcher, though he’s still several years away. From the majors to the Florida State League, the Twins’ catching cupboard is as stocked as it’s been in years. Between recent trade acquisitions and steady player development, Minnesota has built a depth chart capable of absorbing injuries without drastically compromising production behind the plate. Who’s the team’s top-ranked catcher outside of Tait and Diaw? Who will be the team’s catching duo in 2027? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

The Twins traded Carlos Correa, Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, Louis Varland, and seemingly anyone with any semblance of value in their back pocket. The result? Fans are wandering around Target Field like shoppers in a grocery store that just discontinued their favorite brand of cereal. Don’t panic. I’ve prepared a completely unbiased, absolutely objective guide to selecting your new favorite Twin. Think of this as a dating app for baseball fandom: you’re not swiping left or right, you’re just bracing for whoever is still on the roster come August. Byron Buxton – The Lifelong Hope Investment If you’ve ever said “this is the year” every single season since 2015, Byron is your guy. He’s a franchise mainstay, a walking highlight reel when healthy, and a permanent “day-to-day” designation in human form. Picking Buxton as your favorite player is like buying stock in a company that might go bankrupt or might invent the next iPhone. There is high risk or infinite reward. Ideal Fan Type: Eternal optimists, fans with three unused Buxton shirsey purchases in their closet, and anyone who has the Mayo Clinic bookmarked Luke Keaschall – The Prospect Hipster Pick Keaschall is for the fan who loved Jose Miranda before he popped up on top prospect lists and listens to bands before they hit Spotify’s Top 50. He’s a rising infielder with sneaky power and plenty of “up-the-middle” defensive swagger. If he becomes a star, you’ll be insufferable about how you “always knew." Ideal Fan Type: People who talk about OPS+ at dinner parties, own one of those old-school “Win Twins” pennants, and correct others when they say “Cash-ull” instead of “Keesh-al.” Joe Ryan – The Workhorse With the Perfect Hair Ryan didn’t get traded because you can’t put a price on a facial hair-and-flow combo like his. He’s got a competitive streak, throws more fastballs than your rec league softball team, and delivers the occasional gem to keep you hooked. He’s the safe bet, even if there's a danger that he's traded this winter. Ideal Fan Type: Folks who love reliability, Instagram hair tutorials, and shouting “give him one more inning” from the second deck. Ryan Jeffers – The Lunch-Pail Slugger Jeffers is the guy who just keeps showing up, mashing home runs, and doing interviews in a voice that sounds like it should be narrating truck commercials. He’s become one of the most underrated offensive catchers in baseball, but still somehow looks like he’s filling in until the starter gets back. Ideal Fan Type: Fans who like power hitters who don’t need a spotlight, people who pack their lunch in an old Igloo cooler, and anyone who still remembers Tim Laudner fondly. Royce Lewis – Buxton 2.0 If you’re looking for potential star power that somehow survived the deadline purge, Royce is your man. He’s got charisma, clutch hits, and the kind of smile that makes you forget how many IL stints he’s had. He’s lost some of the prospect shine, but he has a chance to be a core piece until the next fire sale. Ideal Fan Type: Kids who wear eye black for tee-ball, fans who cry during walk-off celebrations, and anyone willing to refresh Twitter for injury updates during dinner. Brooks Lee – The Old-School Baseball Guy in a Young Body Lee plays like he’s been in the league for ten years, even though he still gets carded at restaurants. He’s got smooth hands, a pure swing, and the fundamentally sound play that warms the hearts of “the game used to be better” purists. Ideal Fan Type: Baseball traditionalists, people who complain about shift bans, and anyone who has a favorite fungo bat. Matt Wallner – The Homegrown Hulk Wallner is here for the fans who like their baseball players built like they just walked out of a lumberjack competition. He hits baseballs to places where Statcast can’t find them and throws like he’s trying to dent the catcher’s mitt. Yes, he’ll strike out, but those home runs are worth the price of admission. Ideal Fan Type: People who measure distance in “dingers,” Duluth natives, and anyone who believes launch angle is a lifestyle. Totally Accurate Flowchart for Picking Your New Favorite Twin Do you enjoy disappointment but believe in miracles YES: Welcome to Team BYRON BUXTON NO: Continue… Do you brag about prospects before anyone else knows them? YES: L-U-K-E K-E-A-S-C-H-A-L-L NO: Continue… Are you here for elite hair & reliable innings? YES: Joe "Fastball" Ryan NO: Continue… Do you like catchers who hit bombs & look like they could fix your carburetor? YES: Ryan Jeffers NO: Continue… Do you need a player injured as much as Buxton with less upside? YES: Royce Lewis NO: Continue… Do you wear stirrups unironically and own a scorebook? YES: Brooks Lee NO: Continue… Do you only watch for tape-measure home runs & 100 mph outfield assists? YES: Matt Wallner NO: Try Again… Final Step: Accept the Chaos Remember, your favorite player selection is temporary. The 2025 trade deadline taught us that. So pick someone, root like crazy, and keep an emotional go-bag ready for next July. The Twins may have traded away their stars, but at least you’ve still got options… for now.

The Twins’ farm system has undergone a significant shakeup over the past year, with trades, breakout performances, and injuries all impacting the arrival timelines for their top prospects. Some players are pushing their way toward Target Field sooner than expected, while others still have development work ahead. Here’s a look at the Twins Daily top prospects sorted by their updated estimated time of arrival. Prospects with 2025 ETA Mick Abel – RHP – Triple-A TD Prospect Rank: 8 Acquired in the summer blockbuster that sent Jhoan Durán to Philadelphia, Abel is big-league ready and will be part of the team’s long-term pitching plans. His mid-90s fastball and sharp slider have overwhelmed hitters, and improved control has trimmed his walk rate (down over 5.5% compared to 2024). If he keeps this up, Abel could be a rotation option as soon as late this season. Prospects with 2026 ETA Walker Jenkins – OF – Double- TD Prospect Rank: 1 Jenkins has looked every bit the part of a future cornerstone since being drafted fifth overall in 2023. He’s holding his own in Double-A as a 20-year-old, showcasing advanced plate skills, gap-to-gap power, and steady defensive work in center field. Injuries have impacted his first two full seasons as a pro, but the Twins have continued to be aggressive with him. Jenkins will likely be challenged with a Triple-A promotion before the end of 2025. Kaelen Culpepper – SS – Double-A TD Prospect Rank: 3 Culpepper’s steady glove at shortstop continues to be his calling card, but his bat has made strides in 2025. He’s added more lift to his swing, leading to career-best power numbers (.943 OPS at Double-A). If the offensive gains stick, he could push for an MLB role sooner than his original ETA, with the Carlos Correa trade paving way for his arrival. There is a good chance that he will be the team’s shortstop in the not-so-distant future. Emmanuel Rodriguez – OF – Triple-A TD Prospect Rank: 4 Rodriguez entered 2025 looking to prove his bat could handle upper-minors pitching, and he’s doing just that with an .853 OPS. His combination of elite plate discipline and plus raw power makes him one of the most dangerous hitters in the International League. Staying healthy remains key, but if he keeps producing, an early 2026 debut feels inevitable. Connor Prielipp – LHP – Double-A TD Prospect Rank: 6 After missing significant time due to injury early in his pro career, Prielipp is finally building momentum. His mid-90s fastball and wipeout slider give him frontline potential, but the Twins are carefully monitoring his workload. A late 2026 debut seems realistic if his health holds. Like Duran before him, the Twins could move him to a bullpen role to keep him healthy for the long term. Kendry Rojas – LHP – Triple-A TD Prospect Rank: 9 The Twins acquired Rojas as part of the Louis Varland trade, and the front office is excited for what he brings to the system. His sinker-slider combination is tough on both lefties and righties, and he’s refining his other pitches to miss more bats. The Twins have him using his fastball more regularly than he did with Toronto, so that’s something to watch. He profiles as either a mid-rotation starter or high-leverage reliever when he arrives. Prospects with 2027+ ETA Eduardo Tait – C – High-A TD Prospect Rank: 5 Tait, the second prospect in the Duran trade with Philadelphia, has quickly shown why the Twins targeted him. His mature approach at the plate is rare for a teenager, and his arm strength behind the plate is already above-average. He’s a consensus top-100 prospect and was the second-best prospect traded at the deadline. There’s plenty of time for him to develop, but his foundation is impressive. Dasan Hill – LHP – High-A TD Prospect Rank: 7 Hill’s 2025 season has been about refining his command. His mid-90s fastball and wipeout slider give him an intriguing starter’s profile, but he’s still learning to attack the zone consistently. He posted a 30.6 K% at Low-A, and the organization promoted him to High-A before his 20th birthday. Patience will be key, but the tools are here for a potential rotation piece. Charlee Soto – RHP – High-A TD Prospect Rank: 10 Soto’s stuff jumps off the page with a mid-to-upper 90s fastball with a sharp slider, but he’s still learning how to sequence effectively. He suffered a right triceps strain earlier this season and hasn’t appeared in a game since April 17th. At just 19 years old, he’s one of the younger arms in the league, so he needs to get healthy. The Twins can always have him repeat High-A next season. If the Twins’ development plan holds, fans could see an influx of top talent over the next three seasons. With multiple MLB-ready players knocking on the door in 2025 and a wave of high-ceiling prospects following closely behind, the organization’s long-term core is starting to take shape. Do you agree with the ETAs? Which player will have the biggest impact on the 2026 roster? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

The Minnesota Twins’ 2025 season was already shaping up to be one of the most disappointing in the Derek Falvey–Rocco Baldelli era. Popular players were shipped out at the trade deadline, the roster is underperforming on the field, and now the Pohlads’ announcement that they will remain as owners has put a bit of a damper on hopes for significant organizational change. With ownership unchanged, the front office still has to answer a significant question: What direction does this roster take from here? As things stand today, there are two drastically different paths forward. Path 1: The Full Teardown If the Twins are ready to admit they’re entering a true rebuild, there’s little reason to hold onto pitchers like Joe Ryan, Pablo López, and Bailey Ober. The organization was transparent with Carlos Correa before dealing him to Houston, acknowledging that this wasn’t what he signed up for. If the front office is serious about building a roster to compete a few years from now, those starters won’t be around for the next window of contention. Ryan was already the subject of trade conversations in July, and those talks can easily be revisited this winter. López, owed $21 million in 2026, is now the highest-paid player on the team. In a cost-conscious approach, the Twins might prefer replacing him with younger, cheaper options from their system or via smaller acquisitions. Ober, while not yet expensive, is becoming more so through the arbitration process. Like Ryan and Lopez, he could also bring back useful prospect capital, if he has a strong finish to the seaspn. This route is about maximizing return on assets before their value dips, and it signals a clear commitment to a multi-year rebuild. This is something the Twins have been reluctant to admit publicly. However, there is a way for the team to get their overall payroll below $100 million if they choose this path. Path 2: Reinvest for 2026 and Beyond The alternative is to take the salary relief gained from the deadline deals and use it to stabilize the roster. That could mean offering an extension to Ryan and/or Ober, ensuring the pitching staff retains a reliable core. Ryan Jeffers is another extension candidate, especially with no strong catching prospect near the big-league level. The math makes sense: even after arbitration raises, Minnesota’s projected 2026 payroll sits under $100 million. For context, they were at $158 million in 2023 before the infamous “right-sizing” of the payroll leading into the 2024 season. Minnesota ranked in the middle of the pack for payroll for multiple seasons coming out of the pandemic. However, that is no longer the case. According to Spotrac.com, their 2025 figure of about $125 million ranks 20th in MLB following the team’s moves at the trade deadline. The space is there to add a bat, shore up the bullpen, and retain key arms, but history tells us that’s not how the Pohlads have been leaning. The messaging from ownership points toward a Tampa Bay Rays/Milwaukee Brewers style model, where payroll remains modest and efficiency becomes the defining trait. That doesn’t mean they can’t win, but it does mean relying on high turnover and sustained player development, rather than locking in veteran talent. The Twins’ trade deadline sell-off may have hurt the 2025 big-league roster, but it’s already paying dividends in prospect capital. MLB Pipeline’s post-deadline farm system rankings have Minnesota sitting second overall, an impressive leap from their preseason ranking of 10th. The front office added 10 prospects in those trades. That group is headlined by Eduardo Tait, one of baseball’s top catching prospects; he was acquired in the Jhoan Duran deal. Combined with the five 2025 draft picks, the Twins now feature a rare blend of elite talent and organizational depth that should help define their next competitive window. The Twins stand at a familiar crossroads. The Pohlads’ decision to stay on as owners means the philosophy at the top likely won’t shift dramatically. A complete teardown might be the clearest baseball move, but it would mean another long wait for meaningful games in September. Reinvestment could keep the team competitive sooner, but it requires a willingness to spend in a way the franchise hasn’t embraced in recent years. In either case, the 2025-26 offseason could be one of the most crucial in recent Twins history, not just for the roster, but for the tone it sets with the fanbase. Which path will the Twins follow? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

For nearly three years, the Twins have defied one of baseball’s most common trends. They have relied on just two catchers, at a time when depth at the position is critical and injuries often force constant roster shuffling. Minnesota built its game plan around a precise 50/50 timeshare between Ryan Jeffers and Christian Vázquez. It was an intentional move from both the front office and the coaching staff, designed to keep both players fresh and healthy across a 162-game season. That plan is now on hold. On Friday, the Twins placed Vázquez on the 10-day injured list with a left shoulder infection. While the issue is with his non-throwing shoulder, it will still sideline him, ending one of baseball’s rarest streaks. “Yeah, it is kind of, it is almost hard to believe,” Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said. “I bet you are not going to find too many teams that have had that luxury of having guys that are that dependable and durable.” With Vázquez out, the catching duties will now tilt heavily toward Jeffers. Baldelli confirmed that the 50/50 split will disappear, at least for now. “[Jeffers] is going to catch more,” Baldelli explained. “More along the lines of two out of three or three out of four games behind the plate … it will be good for RJ to push himself right now a little bit, get out there and catch a whole bunch.” The shift is an opportunity for Jeffers to step into something he has not had since arriving in the majors: a true full-time role. Last season, he started 81 games at catcher and played behind the plate in 86 games. His 720 1/3 innings catching were a career high, by nearly 50 innings. In 2025, Jeffers has already started 62 games at catcher, so there is a strong possibility that he will surpass his innings squatted and kneeled from last year. The 27-year-old has been one of Minnesota’s more productive hitters this season (112 OPS+), and his ability to provide pop from behind the plate has made him a lineup fixture. Only two AL catchers (Cal Raleigh and Alejandro Kirk) have a higher OBP, among players with 60 or more games played. Even when he is not catching, Baldelli has kept him in the batting order as the designated hitter 23 times, and he's entered more games as a pinch-hitter or as the result of other shuffling more often than in the past. He's amassed 373 plate appearances already, and could easily surpass his career high of 465, set last season. Even as the team leans into using their primary catcher more often, though, it's important that they maintain some semblance of depth; no one can succeed trying to catch every day in the majors. While Vázquez is out, the team could get a long look at either of two candidates for a medium-term backup role. Mickey Gasper Gasper, 28, was touted as a versatile defender when the Twins acquired him this winter. He has spent time at catcher, first base, and in the outfield throughout his minor league career. Minnesota had been hesitant to use him at catcher before Vázquez’s injury. This season, he has dedicated most of his time to catching and has earned praise from the coaching staff for his preparation and receiving skills. He’s been one of Triple-A’s best hitters over the last two seasons, with a .970 OPS in 2024 and a .915 OPS in 2025. His switch-hitting bat adds an extra wrinkle for Baldelli, who can match him up against both left-handed and right-handed pitchers. “And I can see us giving some opportunity to Mickey Gasper, who we think has done a good job behind the plate," Baldelli said. "He's worked hard, like he does, really, at every position, but he's dedicated himself to the catching side of things for much of the year this year.” Jhonny Pereda Pereda, 29, has built a reputation as a steady presence behind the plate, with strong framing and blocking skills. Fans may be unfamiliar with Pereda because the team claimed him off waivers from the Athletics at the end of July. The Twins are his seventh organization, but he continues to draw respect for his ability to manage a pitching staff. In six games in St. Paul, he went 7-for-21 (.333 BA) with four extra-base hits and four walks. This season at Triple-A, he has posted a 120 wRC+ with 11 extra-base hits in 33 games. For the Twins, losing Vázquez changes the formula they have carefully managed for three seasons. For Jeffers, it is a chance to show he can be the guy, not just half of a dependable duo. If his bat stays hot, it might make the Twins more comfortable changing their catching formula for 2026. Of course, that assumes that Jeffers (a free agent at the end of next season) won't be traded, first. Can Jeffers prove that he can be behind the plate on a more regular basis? What stands out about the team’s backup catching options? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

When the Pohlad family confirmed that they will remain the principal owners of the Minnesota Twins, it didn’t just end speculation about the franchise’s sale. It also sent a strong signal about the immediate future of the team’s leadership structure—one that has been remarkably consistent, even during disappointing seasons. In a letter to fans, the Pohlads explained that they explored “a wide range of potential investment and ownership opportunities” before deciding to retain control and add two significant limited partnership groups. That decision essentially secures the positions of the two most visible leaders in the organization: Derek Falvey and Rocco Baldelli. Minimal Change Expected at the Top Falvey, the president of baseball and business operations, has been the franchise’s top baseball executive since 2016. He stepped into one of baseball’s most powerful roles earlier this year, when Dave St. Peter retired. Under his watch, the Twins have won three division titles but have also endured multiple seasons wherein expectations far exceeded results—including the last two seasons, when the club was projected to finish first in the AL Central and will finish out of the playoff picture. Still, the Pohlads have consistently valued stability over dramatic shakeups. Their decision to keep ownership in-house rather than hand the franchise to a new principal owner is a clear sign that a major front-office overhaul is unlikely. On the field, Baldelli appears just as safe. The team picked up his 2026 option earlier this season, a move that now looks even more significant. While some fan frustration has grown during this disappointing year, ownership’s history suggests they see continuity in the dugout as a strength, rather than a weakness. Following Their Long-Term Playbook In some ways, this approach mirrors the Pohlads’ broader philosophy. While other franchises in MLB have cycled through executives and managers in search of quick turnarounds, Minnesota has preferred to give its leadership groups extended time to execute their vision. It’s a philosophy not without risk, especially in an era when playoff contention can be fleeting, but it aligns with the Pohlads’ public statements about valuing “long-term vision” and “shared family values.” Lessons from Other Teams’ Sales This stability-first mindset also stands in contrast to the uncertainty seen when other clubs explore sales. The Los Angeles Angels and Washington Nationals both tested the market in recent years, before deciding to keep their current owners in place. In those cases, lingering questions about leadership often slowed roster planning and created speculation about changes at the top. The Twins, by contrast, seem intent on projecting a united and consistent vision moving forward. Billion-dollar sports franchises have a limited buyer pool, and the complexities of selling often extend far beyond price tags. By ending their sales process, the Pohlads have also eliminated the uncertainty that typically comes with a potential ownership change. A Rarely Changing Guard In the last four decades, the Twins have had just four full-time managers: Tom Kelly (1986-2001), Ron Gardenhire (2002–2014), Paul Molitor (2015–2018), and Rocco Baldelli (2019–present). On the front-office side, the team operated under general manager Terry Ryan for most of 1994–2016 (with a short Bill Smith tenure in between, with Ryan still in the organization) before hiring Falvey to run baseball operations, and eventually business operations, too. By comparison, many MLB clubs have churned through eight or more managers and several top executives in that same stretch. Minnesota has also had some famously long-tenured people in less prominent roles in the front office, and it looks like Byron Buxton will be the third franchise icon in as many generations (following Kirby Puckett and Joe Mauer) to play his entire career with the team. The Twins’ slow turnover at the top reflects the Pohlads’ long-standing belief in patience over quick fixes. The Message to Fans The Pohlads closed their letter with a commitment to “building a winning team and culture for this region.” For now, that culture will continue to be shaped by the same leadership voices that have guided the team for nearly a decade. The Twins’ results in 2025 haven’t matched expectations, but the franchise’s direction, from the front office to the manager’s office, appears locked in. For better or worse, stability remains the Pohlads’ game plan. Should the Pohlads look to make changes to the front office or manager? Will the new limited partners push for different on-field results? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

When the Twins acquired Joe Ryan in the Nelson Cruz trade, he was an overlooked arm in the Tampa Bay Rays system. His minor league numbers were strong, but he was blocked from breaking into a rotation stacked with established big-league arms. The Rays moved him, and the Twins reaped the rewards. Now, the organization hopes to strike gold again. Mick Abel, the 23-year-old right-hander acquired from Philadelphia in the Jhoan Duran trade, found himself in a similar situation. The Phillies’ rotation featured Zack Wheeler, Christopher Sanchez, Jesus Luzardo, and Ranger Suarez, leaving little room for a young starter to break through. Minnesota saw an opportunity to add a talented arm whose timeline and development could align perfectly with their long-term plans. Twins general manager Jeremy Zoll recently discussed Abel’s background on Inside Twins. “He’s still just 23 years old. He’s pitching at Triple-A. The biggest thing Mick has improved upon this year is improving his strike throwing, and that’s really been helpful for him to take another step.” Abel’s repertoire is as promising as it is electric. “[His] fastball averages 96, has touched 99, curveball and changeup are really good swing and miss pitches for him,” Zoll said. Those weapons make him a strong fit for a Twins staff that values high-velocity heaters paired with secondaries that can miss bats. He’s also showing progress in key areas after repeating Triple-A in 2025. Last season, he posted a 22.7% strikeout rate and a 15.1% walk rate over 108 2/3 innings. This year, his strikeout rate is up by 4.6 percentage points, and his walk rate is down by four. His strike percentage has climbed from just under 60% to 63.3%. Those incremental gains are meaningful and signal that his adjustments are paying off. The slider remains a development priority. “I think some opportunities for us to help him refine his slider a little bit more and make that a little bit more of a weapon against righties,” Zoll explained. “For him, it’s really just keep getting innings under your belt and make sure you are as prepared as possible. He got a cameo of sorts at the big-league level earlier this year, and we want to make sure he can keep pushing forward developmentally to take that next step.” There are already signs of improvement. His slider velocity has jumped from an average of 84.4 mph last season to 86.4 mph in 2025, and hitters are offering at it more often. His swing rate against the pitch has increased from 43.9% to 47.4%, helping him generate more whiffs. Even so, the Twins know the leap from Triple-A to the majors remains steep, and they want to make sure Abel has fully adjusted to his new organization before taking it. Some fans have questioned why Abel has not been promoted immediately. Zoll said the decision is about more than just performance. “When a player is traded to a new organization, their whole world is turned upside down,” he explained. “For all these guys, we talked about a lot of different things. How to get them acclimated into the organization. How to give them the best runway to try and take a long-term view and set them up for success for years to come.” That means resisting the urge to rush. “If you put them right at the big-league level, they are going to feel that extra pressure to perform for their new teammates,” Zoll said. “All these expectations that they may be putting on themselves. So, allow them to settle in.” The Twins believe Abel’s development path could mirror Ryan’s in 2021. In the short term, he will continue to make starts in Triple-A while focusing on minor refinements that could pay big dividends. As Zoll summarized, “In Mick’s case, get a few more starts under his belt, see if we can help him make a few of those tweaks to really catapult him for the long-term here.” If Abel’s progress continues, the Twins might once again find themselves with a rotation anchor who only needed the right opportunity to shine. Can Abel turn into the next Ryan? What is his biggest improvement area? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

The Minnesota Twins shocked fans and rival executives alike at the 2025 MLB trade deadline, when they moved on from five of their most trusted bullpen arms: Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, Brock Stewart, Danny Coulombe and Louis Varland. Each of them (save Coulombe) had multiple years of team control remaining and had been a key piece in the team’s late-inning plans. More importantly, all five were once starting pitchers who failed to stick in that role due to injuries, ineffectiveness, or both. The Twins had turned those failed starters (especially Duran, Jax and Varland, homegrown arms all) into late-inning monsters. Now they have to do it all over again. Minnesota’s key roster-builders are doubling down on their internal development plan. They believe they can construct another dominant bullpen using pieces already in the organization. It will require patience, as the club will continue trying to maximize the long-term value of these arms as starters. But as fans saw with Duran and Jax, the fallback option can still be an elite pitcher in a smaller role. So, who could be next? Let’s take a look at five internal candidates with the tools to become high-leverage relievers down the road. RHP Zebby Matthews Current Level: MLB Matthews may be the best pure strike-thrower in the Twins system. Last season, he dominated the lower minors by attacking hitters with a deep arsenal and excellent command. His fastball velocity has continued to rise, averaging 96.5 mph this season, a 1.6-mph increase compared to last year. His heater plays up, at times, because of deception and precise location. As a starter, his ability to control the zone is an asset, but his apparently intense stuff isn't fooling hitters; he has a 5.84 career ERA. If his velocity ticks up in short stints, he could carve out a future as a high-leverage option. He already has the mindset of a pitcher who trusts his stuff and could be next year’s Varland. LHP Connor Prielipp Current Level: Double-A Wichita Prielipp has dealt with a series of injuries that have slowed his development since being drafted. The former Alabama ace once flashed top-of-the-draft potential, with a wipeout slider and advanced feel for pitching. The goal for the 2025 season was to keep him healthy enough to get a consistent run of starts. But if durability continues to be a problem, the Twins may consider a move to the bullpen, where his slider could be devastating in short bursts. He has the profile of a future left-handed weapon out of the pen, a controllable answer to Coulombe. RHP Marco Raya Current Level: Triple-A St. Paul Raya’s talent is obvious, but so are the workload limitations. He has yet to show the durability needed to handle a full season as a starting pitcher. His fastball and slider combination could thrive in a one-inning role, where his velocity would likely jump, and the command issues may become less of a concern. Similar to Jax, he has five pitches, and his fastball already averages in the mid-90s. The Twins have been cautious with his usage, but at some point, a decision will need to be made. Raya has the makeup to become a high-octane late-inning option if the starter route doesn’t work out. RHP Andrew Morris Current Level: Triple-A St. Paul Morris has flown under the radar in a system filled with high-upside arms, but he brings a competitive edge and a solid mix of pitches to the mound. He battled through minor injuries and went on the injured list with a right forearm strain in June. In 2025, his walk rate has suffered, as he had a BB% below 6.0% last season, and he’s north of 8% this year. While he doesn’t have a single elite pitch, his fastball (93.9 mph) and slider (87.3 mph) both have a chance to be effective against big-league hitters. If his stuff ticks up in a relief role, Morris could follow a similar path to Jax, who also came through the college ranks. RHP Cory Lewis Current Level: Triple-A St. Paul Lewis is one of the most unorthodox arms in the system. His signature pitch is a knuckleball-curve hybrid that confounds hitters at any level. As a starter, he brings entertainment and unpredictability, but his unconventional arsenal might work best in a limited role. He’s struggled this year at Triple-A with a 6.52 ERA, but the Twins are working with him on his pitch mix. They could utilize Lewis as a change-of-pace reliever, someone who throws off timing before handing the ball to a flame-throwing righty. It may not be the most traditional route to success, but Lewis has the type of arsenal that keeps hitters off-balance. Minnesota may have just shipped out its most trusted bullpen arms, but they have a track record of turning failed starters into dominant relievers. It is a developmental path the Twins know well, and the next wave of bullpen talent is already on the roster. If even one or two of these names follow the Duran or Jax blueprint, the bullpen won’t be a weakness for long. Which prospects should the Twins attempt to develop into the next bullpen arms? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

It was another strong week across the Twins’ farm system, with multiple prospects making noise at different levels. While development can often be a slow process, weeks like this remind fans why the organization remains confident in its young core. This week’s standouts include a fast-rising infielder in Double-A, a teenage left-handed pitcher carving up Low-A hitters, and one of baseball’s premier outfield prospects continuing his steady climb toward the majors. INF Kaelen Culpepper – Double-A Wichita Wind Surge How He Got Here: The Twins selected Culpepper with the 21st overall pick in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft out of Kansas State University. In his professional debut last year, he split time between Low-A Fort Myers and High-A Cedar Rapids, slashing .242/.330/.394, with eight extra-base hits in 26 games. His combination of quick hands, gap power, and defensive versatility quickly put him on the fast track. Many scouts believed that he was a disciplined hitter who would hit for average over power, but he’s put many of those conversations to rest this season with a power outburst. Hitting the Hot Button: This past week in Wichita, Culpepper caught fire. In six games, he batted .367 (11-for-30) with a triple, two home runs, and seven RBIs, posting a 1.000 OPS. His ability to produce both contact and power continues to stand out, and his athleticism in the field makes him one of the Twins’ most complete prospects. Since being promoted to Double-A, he has a .943 OPS with a 162 wRC+. Now, he looks to be part of the team’s long-term plans at shortstop, with Carlos Correa out of the picture at the big-league level. LHP Dasan Hill – Low-A Fort Myers Mighty Mussels How He Got Here: Hill joined the Twins as their second-round pick (69th overall) in the 2024 MLB Draft out of Grapevine High School in Texas. At just 18 years old last season, the Twins worked on adding muscle to his frame, and he didn’t make his pro debut until 2025. Hill caught the Twins’ attention because of his mid-to-upper 90s fastball and a low 80s sweeper that might be his best pitch. Minnesota wants him to refine his secondary offerings, and he has shown more than enough during his pro debut, especially against older competition. Hitting the Hot Button: The now 19-year-old southpaw delivered one of his cleanest outings yet on Saturday. Hill threw 4 scoreless innings, allowing just one hit, issuing no walks, and striking out three. For the season, he has posted a 30.6 K% with a 14.9 BB%, while holding batters to a .571 OPS. He has only faced younger batters in 15 of his 222 plate appearances this season, and they have yet to record a hit off of him. With a lively fastball and a sharp sweeper, he held his own against Low-A hitters and the organization promoted him to High-A on Monday. OF Walker Jenkins – Double-A Wichita Wind Surge How We Got Here: Minnesota got lucky in the 2023 MLB Draft Lottery and moved into the top five, which allowed the team to select Jenkins out of South Brunswick High School in North Carolina. In his first full pro season in 2024, he moved from Low- to Double-A, posting a combined .833 OPS with 22 doubles, six home runs, four triples, and 17 stolen bases in just 82 games. A hamstring injury impacted his season, but he still showed a polished bat and mature approach that have kept him among the sport’s elite prospects. Hitting the Hot Button: Jenkins and Culpepper have been exciting to watch in the same lineup, as they continue to push one another. Entering play on Sunday, Jenkins had gone 19-for-43 (.442) with four home runs and four doubles in his last 11 games. During that same stretch, he is getting on base nearly 52% of the time and slugging over .800. He has as many walks (7) as strikeouts (7) and continues to be a threat on the bases, with two steals. With production like this, a promotion to Triple-A before the end of the season remains very possible. Jenkins, Culpepper, and Hill are among the team’s top-ranked prospects, and this week showed why they will all be in the conversation as top-100 prospects entering the 2026 campaign. Culpepper and Jenkins are also on a path to Target Field early next season if everything continues to trend in the same direction. What stands out about this week’s top-performing prospects? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

The Minnesota Twins have unexpectedly found themselves at the center of baseball’s national conversation over the last two weeks because of a surprise fire sale at the MLB trade deadline. In a year where the AL Central remained within reach and the Twins still had a roster full of desirable talent, the front office chose to pull the plug. That decision shocked fans across the country and has brought renewed attention to Minnesota’s long-running struggle to meet expectations. Whether the spotlight brings clarity or criticism, it has forced the national media to re-evaluate the Twins’ place in the modern baseball landscape. On a recent episode of The Roundtable, a national podcast hosted by writers from The Athletic, the crew posed a question that stings but might hit too close to home for Minnesota fans: Are the Twins baseball’s most disappointing team of the current era? It’s not an outlandish take. In fact, it might be the most accurate way to describe what’s happened to the Twins over the past half-decade. Minnesota’s decision to sell at the 2025 trade deadline sent shockwaves through the sport. Still, that moment wasn’t the beginning of the problem because it was the culmination of years of underperformance, bad luck, and organizational inertia. Always the Projection, Rarely the Result The Twins have consistently looked good on paper. They’ve regularly been picked by projection systems like FanGraphs to finish above .500 and contend in a weak AL Central. But results on the field haven’t matched the spreadsheets. Here’s a look at how the Twins have stacked up to their preseason projections: Season FanGraphs Projection Final Record +/- 2025 84-78 (1st in ALC) TBD TBD 2024 85-77 (1st in ALC) 82-80 (4th) -3 2023 83-79 (1st in ALC) 87-75 (1st) +4 2022 82-80 (2nd in ALC) 78-84 (3rd) -4 2021 88-74 (1st in ALC) 73-89 (5th) -15 Only once (2023) did the Twins exceed expectations. That was also the only year in the last five that they managed to win a playoff game, finally breaking the infamous two-decade postseason losing streak. Minnesota has been projected to win the AL Central in four of the last five seasons and will miss the playoffs in all but one of those years. But the overall pattern has been frustratingly clear: The Twins are either underwhelming or just plain stuck in the mud. And in a division where no team spends big and few teams try to win consistently, that’s particularly damning. Stars Who Shine in Theory The Roundtable hosts pointed out that this isn’t a talentless roster. The Twins have Byron Buxton, one of the most electrifying players in baseball when healthy. They’ve developed Joe Ryan, Bailey Ober, and more through smart scouting and pitching development. And, before this year’s deadline, they had 10 players that contending teams were actively targeting—proof that the talent was there. They also had Carlos Correa, until they didn’t. That deal was supposed to be a franchise-changer, but his bat disappeared, his legs aged quickly, and the promise of Correa as the anchor of a playoff core never materialized. Whether that’s bad luck, poor evaluation, or something more systemic, it was another swing-and-miss in a long line of them. What’s Actually Wrong? The hardest part in all of this is the diagnosis. What is wrong with the Twins? They spend as much or more than the rest of the AL Central. They develop pitching. They had one of baseball’s best bullpens. But the results haven’t followed. Some of it is health, with players like Buxton, Royce Lewis, and others have been consistently unavailable. Some of it is underperformance with the Twins hoping that players like Correa, Lewis, and Matt Wallner could carry the lineup. But a lot of it comes down to momentum. And the Twins never seem to build any. A Turning Point… or Just the End? Trading away so many Major League pieces at this year’s deadline wasn’t just a signal of where the 2025 season was headed. It felt like the front office was finally waving the white flag on this version of the Minnesota Twins. This era may be remembered for one playoff win, a few fun summers, and a whole lot of what-ifs. What if Buxton stayed healthy? What if Correa found his bat? What if they’d cashed in on the Central while other teams were rebuilding? Instead, from a national perspective, the Twins now serve as a cautionary tale. They were a team that had the talent, the financial edge, and the division within reach, but rarely took the step forward. For Twins fans, that’s not just disappointing. It’s exhausting. What other teams have been disappointing during the current era? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

Carlos Correa’s return to Houston at the trade deadline didn’t just mark the end of a high-profile free-agent signing, it left a gaping hole at one of the most vital defensive positions in baseball. While the Twins can’t replace Correa’s leadership and postseason resume overnight, they’ve quietly built up a deep pipeline of potential successors at shortstop. And if there’s one thing you notice when tracking prospects in this game, it’s this: everyone starts at shortstop Even Miguel Sanó was considered a shortstop when the Twins signed him. Teams routinely load their farm systems with athletic shortstops, knowing full well many of them will never sniff the big leagues at that position. Shortstop is where the best players go when they’re young. If they can’t stick there, because of size, speed, or arm strength, they get moved down the defensive spectrum. It’s a filtering system, and the Twins have several names working their way through the funnel Here’s a look at how Minnesota might line things up at shortstop over the next five years. 2025-2026: Brooks Lee, The Heir Apparent Lee’s path to Minnesota was methodical. After the Twins took him with the eighth overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, he tore through the minors in less than two seasons. A back injury slowed him earlier this year, but he’s healthy now and should see extended big-league time this fall. In 93 games, he has a 78 OPS+ with 10 home runs and 10 doubles. He doesn’t have the defensive chops of Correa (-2 OAA at SS), but he should be able to hold down the position until another prospect steps in to take over the spot. Lee likely takes over the reins in 2025 and holds the job through at least 2026. That said, there’s always been speculation he’s better suited for third base or second long-term, depending on how his body ages and how much range he maintains. Still, his bat has always been his calling card, and the Twins will need more offensive output from him over the next two years. 2026-2028: Kaelen Culpepper, The Top Prospect in Waiting Culpepper might be one of the most athletic players in the system right now, and that’s one of the reasons the Twins took him in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft. Among the team’s top prospects, he has seen his stock rise the most this year. In 82 games between High- and Double-A, he is hitting .315/.398/.503 (.901) with 15 homers, 13 doubles, and a 153 wRC+. There’s a strong chance he is the team’s minor league player of the year. Culpepper might debut at second or third to get his feet wet, but long-term, he profiles as a potential everyday shortstop. His arm is so good that many believed that he would shift to the hot corner as he got closer to the big leagues. Many evaluators have changed their tune this season and believe he can stick at short. If Lee shifts off the position by 2026 or 2027, Culpepper could grab the job and run with it through the end of the decade. Keep an eye on his strikeout rate and ability to handle velocity up in the zone. If those develop, his ceiling is sky high. 2028-2030: Marek Houston, The Long-Term Bet The Twins used a first-round pick in 2025 to land Marek Houston, a defense-first college shortstop with a high baseball IQ. He’s the kind of player scouts rave about in quiet tones: advanced footwork, internal clock, great first step, and a smooth, accurate arm. While the bat has a ways to go, there are signs of a quality contact profile and sneaky doubles power. Houston is years away, but if Culpepper outgrows shortstop or shifts to third base, Houston could step in and become the steady, glove-first answer. He has a solid floor, low flash, but reliable as they come A Position in Flux, But Not in Crisis It’s strange to say goodbye to Correa just two and a half years into his massive contract, especially after his postseason heroics and leadership behind the scenes. But the Twins prepared for this. They drafted shortstops. And they’ll keep developing them. In five years, we might look back and see that Correa was just the bridge between one era of Twins baseball and another. The names may change, but the pipeline is full. And odds are, the guy replacing Correa… was once a shortstop, too Who is the team’s best long-term option at shortstop? Leave a comment and start the discussion.