The Minnesota Twins are closely monitoring Joe Ryan, who is undergoing tests for issues concerning his glute and back. Following a report from manager Derek Shelton, Ryan remains questionable for his upcoming start and may end up on the 15-day injured list.
While the initial signs weren't alarming, Ryan's recent performance has raised eyebrows. After being selected to his second career All-Star game with a commendable 2.85 ERA, the pitcher seems to have lost his edge post-break. In his first game after the All-Star festivities, he allowed six home runs against the Cleveland Guardians, a team typically lacking offensive firepower.
Minnesota chose to skip his next start due to arm fatigue. Upon returning, Ryan delivered a mediocre six-inning outing against the Kansas City Royals, surrendering four runs on eight hits. His struggles continued in a rematch, where he allowed five runs (four earned) over 5 1/3 innings, striking out just three batters and giving up seven hits.
His recent struggles have resulted in three consecutive losses; notably, he has given up 17 runs in just 15 1/3 innings and managed to strike out only 10 of 73 batters faced. His average fastball velocity dropped to 92.1 mph during his last outing—well below his 93.4 mph season average.
Trade Strategies to Bolster the Rotational Depth
To mitigate potential gaps in their rotation, the Twins recently acquired Dean Kremer, adding depth to their pitching staff. As a result, Zebby Matthews has been reassigned to Triple-A, becoming an option for a potential return to the rotation if Ryan does need an IL stint. However, it’s important to note that Matthews wouldn't be available if the Twins only opt to skip Ryan's turn, as he would need to stay in Triple-A for 15 days unless filling an IL spot.
This acquisition is part of a broader strategy by the Twins, who aimed to strengthen their bullpen as well. Alongside Kremer, they also brought in Jeff Hoffman and A.J. Minter, enhancing the team's pitching depth.
Closing Roles and Financial Implications
Recently acquired right-handed pitcher Yoendrys Gómez will take on the closing duties after joining the Twins from the Rays during the DFA trade in May. Gómez has been effective, logging 32 2/3 innings with a 1.93 ERA. He has maintained a 24% strikeout rate but has struggled slightly with walks at 11%. Despite stats that aren't dominant, he has not faltered in save situations, converting 13 out of 13 chances since his arrival in Minnesota.
The recent acquisitions have added approximately $8 million to Minnesota’s payroll, which now sits around $109.3 million, a modest increase from its pre-deadline position of $101.4 million. The organization took on financial commitments that include nearly $3.5 million for Minter, $3.2 million for Hoffman, and about $1.8 million on Kremer. While Minter is a short-term addition, the team can decide on Kremer's arbitration for 2027, which could be in the $7-8 million range.
Twins ownership has indicated a willingness to increase payroll midseason if the team’s performance warrants it. Chairman Tom Pohlad emphasized that the organization intends to invest more significantly in 2027 to remain competitive. "For us to accomplish the things we want and be a consistent playoff contender, we are going to make investments into this team," Pohlad stated, assuring fans that there are more financial commitments ahead.
Looking Ahead and Team Decisions
Guarantees on the payroll currently include commitments to key players such as Pablo López, Byron Buxton, and Victor Caratini. Attention will likely shift to assessing whether to extend a $23.1 million qualifying offer to catcher Ryan Jeffers.
If the Twins fail to issue this offer and Jeffers signs elsewhere, it may come to be viewed as a missed opportunity, especially since they opted against trading him at the deadline. The team currently has a dim playoff outlook, with a 1-4 record since making critical trades. Although their division competitors are also struggling, the emerging form of the Detroit Tigers could further complicate Minnesota's playoff hopes.