Minnesota Twins starter Joe Ryan has decided not to attend an event.
The Minnesota Twins are preparing for a pivotal 2026 season, but one of their most important players will not be part of the team’s annual fan showcase.
Right‑handed starter Joe Ryan, who has quietly developed into a cornerstone of the rotation, has withdrawn from participating in TwinsFest, the organization’s winter event that traditionally brings players and fans together before spring training.
The decision comes as Ryan shifts his focus toward the upcoming World Baseball Classic, where he is expected to play a key role for Team USA.
“Joe Ryan is not expected to attend TwinsFest, per a team source. Ryan has been removed from the lineup of Twins players scheduled to make an appearance,” reported Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic.
TwinsFest is one of the franchise’s signature offseason traditions, held each January as a way to connect players with the fan base.
The event typically features autograph sessions, Q&A panels, interactive games and opportunities for fans to meet their favorite players. For the organization, it serves as both a celebration of the past season and a rallying point for the year ahead.
Ryan’s absence is notable, given his rising profile and importance to the team’s outlook in 2026.
The 29-year-old is coming off his best season to date. In 2025, he posted a 13‑10 record with a 3.42 ERA and 194 strikeouts across 171 innings, earning his first All‑Star selection. His performance solidified him as one of the most reliable arms in the Twins’ rotation, and his presence will be critical as Minnesota looks to rebound from a disappointing 70‑92 campaign.
However, his offseason has already been marked by headlines, as he and the Twins failed to reach a contract agreement before the arbitration deadline. His 2026 salary will now be decided by an arbitration panel, with the team offering $5.85 million and Ryan’s camp filing for $6.35 million.
The decision to skip TwinsFest likely underscores Ryan’s commitment to preparing for the World Baseball Classic, where he will represent Team USA.
The tournament, which brings together the best players from around the globe, is a unique opportunity for Ryan to showcase his talent on an international stage. For the Twins, it means their ace will be sharpening his skills against elite competition before returning to the club for the regular season.
While fans may be disappointed not to see Ryan at TwinsFest, his focus on the WBC highlights the balance between individual goals and team obligations.
If he can carry his strong form into both the international tournament and the MLB season, Ryan’s absence from the winter event will be quickly overshadowed by his impact on the mound.