Key Offseason Changes
The Twins are in full rebuild mode after a disastrous 2025 season that saw 90 losses, the lowest Target Field attendance in history, and manager Rocco Baldelli's departure. The trade deadline fire sale shipped out 11 players, including a stunning salary dump of Carlos Correa, the highest-paid player in franchise history.
The offseason brought modest additions: Josh Bell (1-year + mutual option) at first base, Victor Caratini (2 years) behind the plate, and Taylor Rogers ($2M) returning to the bullpen. Joe Ryan agreed to a $6.1M deal with a $13M mutual option for 2027. Edouard Julien was traded to the Rockies, clearing the way for Brooks Lee at shortstop.
Trade speculation continues around Pablo López and Joe Ryan, who form one of the AL's best frontline duos. If Minnesota isn't competitive early, expect one or both to be moved at the deadline. Top prospect Connor Prielipp (2025 Minor League Pitcher of the Year) could push for MLB time.
Projected Starting Lineup
| Order | Player | Position | Prop Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Austin Martin | LF | Former top prospect, speed |
| 2 | Brooks Lee | SS | Top prospect, first full season |
| 3 | Byron Buxton | CF | Elite tools, health question |
| 4 | Royce Lewis | 3B | Power bat, injury history |
| 5 | Josh Bell | 1B | 1-year signing, veteran bat |
| 6 | Trevor Larnach | RF | Power potential, needs consistency |
| 7 | Ryan Jeffers | C | Power-hitting catcher |
| 8 | Victor Caratini | C | Veteran catcher, $14M signing |
| 9 | James Outman | DH | Former Dodger, strikeout concerns |
The lineup is loaded with potential but riddled with health concerns. Byron Buxton is an MVP-caliber talent when healthy, but staying on the field has been his career-long challenge. Royce Lewis has similar power but similar injury issues. Brooks Lee enters as the top prospect with a chance to be the face of the rebuild. Josh Bell provides veteran stability at first base on a prove-it deal. This lineup could surprise if healthy, or crater if injuries strike again.
Projected Starting Rotation
| Slot | Pitcher | Throws | Prop Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SP1 | Pablo López | R | All-Star, trade candidate |
| SP2 | Joe Ryan | R | $6.1M deal, strikeout upside |
| SP3 | Bailey Ober | R | Workhorse, control pitcher |
| SP4 | Simeon Woods Richardson | R | Competing for spot |
| SP5 | Zebby Matthews | R | Or Taj Bradley/Mick Abel |
Pablo López and Joe Ryan form one of the AL's best 1-2 punches when healthy, but both could be traded if Minnesota falls out of contention early. Bailey Ober provides workhorse stability as the #3. The back end is a competition between Simeon Woods Richardson, Zebby Matthews, Taj Bradley, and Mick Abel. Connor Prielipp, the 2025 Minor League Pitcher of the Year, could also push for time if the young arms struggle.
Bullpen & Closer Situation
Closer: Justin Topa enters 2026 as the primary ninth-inning option. The veteran brings experience and a power arm, though save opportunities may be limited on a rebuilding team projected for 70-75 wins.
Setup: Taylor Rogers returns to Minnesota on a $2M deal, providing lefty high-leverage experience. Cole Sands and Kody Funderburk offer right-handed depth with swing-and-miss potential.
Development: The bullpen will be a development opportunity for arms like Travis Adams, Pierson Ohl, and Eric Orze. If the Twins aren't competitive, expect veteran relievers to be traded for prospects at the deadline.