Minnesota Twins Congratulate Pablo Lopez for Award Nomination

Pablo López did not throw a pitch for the Minnesota Twins in 2026. He still found a way to make a difference though in his community.

López was named a finalist for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award, which goes to the player whose leadership most inspires others. The finalists are chosen by a vote of players across the league, which makes this one carry a different weight than the awards handed out by front offices or media. "No surprise here! Congratulations to Pablo Lopez for being named a Man of the Year finalist!" the Twins wrote on X.

Lopez had Tommy John surgery in February after an MRI revealed significant damage to the UCL in his right elbow. It was the second Tommy John surgery of his career, and it wiped out his entire season.

For a lot of players, that kind of news means going dark. Lopez did the opposite. He traveled with the Twins throughout the year, helped with television and radio broadcasts, interpreted interviews for Spanish-speaking players, and charted pitches from the dugout.

None of that was required. He just showed up and found ways to contribute while working through one of the most grueling rehabilitation processes in sports.

The award nomination is not the only recognition he has received away from the field. In September, he was named Minnesota’s nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award for the third straight year with the Twins.

That award goes to players for character, community involvement and contributions off the field. Three consecutive nominations with the same organization is not a coincidence. It is a pattern.

López threw from 30 to 45 feet in August, his first throwing session since the surgery. He has continued to progress without any setbacks since. The Twins have not set a timetable his return, but the goal is to have him ready for Opening Day 2027.

Before the injury, López was one of the most reliable starters in the rotation. He posted a 2.74 ERA across 14 starts and 75 2/3 innings in 2025, going 5-4 with 73 strikeouts despite dealing with hamstring, shoulder and forearm issues. He is under contract through 2027 on a four-year, $73.5 million extension. He is a candidate to be traded if the Twins struggle next year.

Minnesota finished 77-85 and third in the AL Central in 2026. A healthy López could certainly increase their win total.

The winner of the Marvin Miller Award is expected to be announced the week of Oct. 26. López is one of three finalists alongside Chris Bassitt and Nico Hoerner.