Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan is dealing with inflammation in his lower back after being pulled from his scheduled start during spring training on Saturday. The team’s All-Star right-hander underwent an MRI scan that revealed the injury on Sunday, casting uncertainty over his condition as the season approaches.
Context Surrounding Ryan’s Health and Team Challenges
Ryan’s situation comes shortly after the Twins confirmed that fellow right-hander Pablo Lopez will require Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for the entire 2026 season. Ryan, 29, expressed regret about any alarm caused by the news.
“I didn’t do any deep dives and don’t have Twitter. … I’m sorry to scare everyone,”
he told reporters.
Ryan’s Recent Performance and Contract Details
Last season, Ryan achieved a career-best 3.42 ERA, finishing with a 13-10 record and 194 strikeouts over 31 outings, 30 of which he started. His strong performance earned him his first appearance in the All-Star Game. Recently, Ryan agreed to a $6.2 million contract to avoid arbitration, securing his place with the Twins as questions remain about his recovery.
Impact on Team and Upcoming Prospects
The inflammation in Joe Ryan’s back adds another layer of concern for the Twins’ pitching staff, which is already coping with the loss of Lopez for the foreseeable future. As the season nears, the team will need to adjust their rotation and monitor Ryan’s health closely to determine his availability. The outcome of his treatment will likely influence Minnesota’s competitiveness in an increasingly challenging lineup.
