Twins' ace pitcher Joe Ryan, a rising star in the MLB, is facing a setback. He was unexpectedly scratched from his scheduled start in the Grapefruit League game against the Red Sox due to lower back tightness on his right side. This sudden development has raised concerns, especially considering the recent Tommy John surgery that ruled out fellow pitcher Pablo Lopez for the 2026 season. The Twins' season could be at stake if Ryan's injury proves to be significant.
Ryan's absence from the WBC roster is a possibility, even if the back issue turns out to be minor. The Twins might opt for caution, ensuring Ryan's full recovery before the start of the season. This is a crucial decision, as Ryan's performance in the previous season was impressive, with a 3.42 ERA, 28.2% strikeout rate, and 5.7% walk rate across 171 innings. His durability has been a concern, with a recent teres major strain ending his 2024 season in August.
The Twins' decision to retain Ryan during their trade deadline selloff was strategic, as he is under team control until after the 2027 season. This cost-effective approach could be a game-changer for the team's long-term planning. However, if the Twins miss the playoffs again this year, trade rumors will likely resurface, especially if Ryan remains healthy and continues to perform at a high level. The question remains: will the Twins prioritize keeping their ace or make a move to strengthen other areas of the team?
