Minnesota Twins Get Joe Ryan Update Before World Baseball Classic

The Minnesota Twins received an encouraging update on one of their most important pitchers as spring training continues, offering some clarity after recent uncertainty surrounding Joe Ryan’s status. 

Ryan was recently scratched from a scheduled spring training start with a back injury, raising concern given the timing and the Twins’ already thin rotation. With ace Pablo Lopez sidelined for the season, any potential setback to Ryan would have been a major blow to a staff that is already scrambling to find stability. His health has quickly become one of the most important storylines in camp, especially for a team trying to remain competitive despite key losses. 

There is now reason for optimism, even if the team is still proceeding carefully with his workload and timeline. 

“Joe Ryan had a good bullpen session on Saturday. He'll throw a live BP next, then get into a #MNTwins game. He won't participate in WBC pool play, but remains in Team USA's designated player pool and could pitch into the second round if the schedule aligns,” reported Dan Hayes of The Athletic. 

This update is significant for multiple reasons. While Ryan will not pitch in the early stages of the World Baseball Classic, remaining in the player pool suggests there is no serious injury concern. More importantly, it reinforces that the Twins are prioritizing his readiness for the regular season over early tournament action. 

That decision makes sense given Ryan’s importance to the rotation. With Lopez out, Ryan is now expected to take on a clear front‑end role, anchoring a group that lacks proven depth. Losing him, even temporarily, would have dramatically altered Minnesota’s outlook heading into the year. 

Ryan is coming off a breakout 2025 campaign in which he made his first All‑Star appearance. Across 31 appearances, he posted a 3.42 ERA over 171 innings while recording 194 strikeouts and a 1.035 WHIP. Those numbers established him as one of the more reliable starters in the American League and solidified his value within the organization. 

That value also led to trade speculation earlier this offseason, as some wondered if the Twins might move him amid questions about their long‑term competitiveness. Ultimately, Minnesota held onto Ryan, signaling a belief that he can still lead this pitching staff. 

Now entering his sixth season with the Twins after being acquired in a 2021 trade from the Tampa Bay Rays, Ryan appears to be on track to begin the season without limitations. If he can build on last year’s performance, he will be central to keeping Minnesota afloat in what projects to be a challenging season.