Twins pitcher Joe Ryan threw from 90 feet on Tuesday morning, resuming activity after being scratched from his scheduled start against the Red Sox on Saturday due to low back tightness. Manager Derek Shelton shared the update with reporters, including MLB.com’s Matthew Leach. An MRI confirmed Ryan is dealing only with inflammation and no severe injury.
Assuming the inflammation does not worsen, Ryan is expected to be ready for the regular season and remains a leading candidate to start on Opening Day against the Baltimore Orioles. Ryan was also slated to be a starter for Team USA in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC), but his participation is uncertain. The Twins may reconsider his involvement, Ryan himself might opt out, or insurance issues could prevent him from playing in the tournament.
Julian Merryweather Exits Spring Debut with Hamstring Issue
Julian Merryweather, who joined the Twins on a minor-league contract recently, left his spring training debut after just two batters due to a left hamstring strain. The Minnesota Star Tribune’s Bobby Nightengale reported that Merryweather walked one batter and struck out another before the injury forced him out.
Merryweather’s injury significantly reduces his chances of securing a spot in the Twins’ bullpen for Opening Day. The only relievers currently assured of roster positions are Taylor Rogers, Anthony Banda, Justin Topa, and Cole Sands. If Merryweather lands on the injured list, he will likely have to rehab in the minors and await an opportunity to rejoin the major league roster.
David Festa Making Steady Progress After Recent Shoulder Setback
Right-handed pitcher David Festa is gradually increasing his workload after ending the 2025 season on the injured list with shoulder inflammation. Late last year, Festa was expected to return in September, but a diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndrome delayed his comeback. Instead of surgery, he received Botox injections, which have helped his recovery.
Festa recently threw live batting practice sessions with his fastball reaching the low-90s, although last season his average velocity was 94.1 mph. He is expected to regain his full velocity as he continues to build arm strength.
This spring, Festa is competing for the Twins’ final rotation spot alongside Mick Abel and Zebby Matthews. While many view Festa as a better fit for a relief role at this stage, a strong showing could change the narrative and earn him a starting position.
Rotation Battles and Team Outlook as Season Approaches
The competition among the Twins’ pitching staff remains intense, with several players contending for limited rotation and bullpen spots. Joe Ryan’s health and readiness carry significant weight for the team’s Opening Day plans and international competition prospects. Meanwhile, injury setbacks for Merryweather and Festa add uncertainty to the team’s pitching depth.
As spring training progresses, the Twins’ management and players face pressing questions about roster construction and performance under pressure. How these developments unfold will shape the team’s pitching strategy for the upcoming season and influence their success during critical matchups, including the World Baseball Classic.
