The Minnesota Twins’ spring training opener against the Boston Red Sox on Saturday saw an unforeseen shift when right-hander Joe Ryan, expected to start the game, was scratched shortly before first pitch. Instead, Bryce Stull took the mound, with Ryan removed just 15 minutes before the game began, sparking rumors about his status.
Injury Concerns Behind Ryan’s Removal
Reports from Dan Hayes of The Athletic indicated that tightness in Joe Ryan’s lower back led to his sudden withdrawal from the starting role. The decision came without Ryan throwing a single pitch, highlighting concerns about his physical condition heading into the season.
Joe Ryan’s Career and Recent Performance
Since joining the Twins in 2021, Joe Ryan has established himself as a significant presence on the pitching staff. Last season, he earned a spot on the American League All-Star team and posted a 13-10 record across 31 games, with a 3.42 earned run average (ERA) and 194 strikeouts. Overall, his career record stands at 46-36, accompanied by a 3.79 ERA and 719 strikeouts.
However, the 2024 season posed challenges, as Ryan was sidelined due to a right shoulder strain that caused him to miss the final two months of play. He finished the year with a 7-7 record and a 3.60 ERA. The Twins, meanwhile, ended last season with a 70-92 record, ranking fourth in the American League Central Division.
Trade Speculation Amid Team Needs
Joe Ryan’s name has surfaced in trade discussions, partly because the Twins lost Pablo Lopez to Tommy John surgery, leaving a gap in the pitching rotation. In January, Ryan agreed to a one-year contract extension through 2027 that included a trade option, emphasizing potential roster moves. Minnesota aims to secure a valuable asset, such as a top prospect or another standout pitcher, in exchange for Ryan.
Ryan’s Past Highlights and International Experience
Beyond his MLB contributions, Ryan was a member of Team USA during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where the team earned a silver medal. His international experience adds to his value and profile as the Twins navigate the early stages of this season with unforeseen staffing changes on the mound.
Twins scratched Joe Ryan about 15 minutes before first pitch here.
— Chris Cotillo (@ChrisCotillo) February 21, 2026
Joe Ryan has been scratched from today's start with low back tightness on his right side. #MNTwins
— DanHayesMLB (@DanHayesMLB) February 21, 2026
