Right-handed pitcher Joe Ryan was removed from his Spring Training start due to discomfort in his lower back and subsequently underwent an MRI to assess the issue. The results, reported by The Athletic’s Dan Hayes, indicate that Ryan is dealing only with inflammation in the lower back region, a condition described as a best-case scenario for the pitcher.
Implications for Joe Ryan and the Twins’ Rotation Depth
This mild diagnosis suggests Ryan is likely to avoid an extended absence. Although the Minnesota Twins have not yet clarified their specific management strategy for Ryan’s inflammation, it appears probable that his availability for Opening Day will remain intact. This development is particularly positive for the Twins, who previously faced the loss of right-hander Pablo Lopez for the season due to Tommy John surgery. Losing Lopez was a significant setback, and the potential absence of Ryan would have further strained the team’s pitching staff.
Ryan is anticipated to anchor the rotation alongside Bailey Ober. The Twins are expected to fill the remaining rotation positions from a group of promising pitchers, including Simeon Woods Richardson, Zebby Matthews, Taj Bradley, Mick Abel, and David Festa, highlighting the club’s reliance on emerging talent to stabilize their pitching lineup.
Joe Ryan’s Rising Value After a Strong Previous Season
Ryan’s importance to the Twins is amplified by his recent performance, as he delivered the best season of his career in 2025. Earning his first All-Star selection, he posted a solid 3.42 ERA over 171 innings, making 30 starts and recording a notable 28.2% strikeout rate paired with a low 5.7% walk rate. While Ryan’s home run allowance remained high, with a concerning 11.5% barrel rate leading to 26 home runs surrendered, his overall production marked him as a reliable top rotation starter.
Despite strong trade interest in Ryan at the last summer’s deadline—a period that saw the Twins undergo a major fire sale involving star Carlos Correa, outfielder Harrison Bader, and much of their bullpen—Ryan remained with Minnesota. His retention illustrates his value as a cornerstone for the team, even amid significant roster changes.
Offseason Decisions and Future Prospects Under New Team Leadership
The Twins revisited trade possibilities for Ryan, Pablo Lopez, and Byron Buxton during the offseason but decided to remove these key players from the market in December after Tom Pohlad assumed control of the franchise. Following a mutual separation between Pohlad and former team president Derek Falvey, Pohlad has expressed optimism about contending in 2026, despite a roster similar to that of a team which struggled following the previous trade deadline.
The organization remains hopeful that its array of young talent, including Luke Keaschall, Royce Lewis, and Brooks Lee, can drive improvement. Yet if the Twins fall short again, Ryan could once more become a focal point in trade discussions this summer, assuming he maintains good health.
Uncertain Impact on Joe Ryan’s World Baseball Classic Participation
Ryan’s mild inflammation also raises questions about his availability for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Although named to Team USA’s roster, his participation may be in jeopardy due to his injury. Compounding this uncertainty is the league-wide issue surrounding insurance denials for players entering the tournament, which has prompted teams to exercise greater caution in confirming participants.
Nevertheless, Team USA retains a strong pitching rotation beyond Ryan. The roster includes notable starters such as Paul Skenes, Tarik Skubal, Logan Webb, Mets prospect Nolan McLean, and veteran lefty Matthew Boyd, ensuring depth even if Ryan must sit out the event.
Good news for #MNTwins: Joe Ryan’s MRI showed only inflammation. Best case scenario.
— DanHayesMLB (@DanHayesMLB) February 22, 2026
