Joe Ryan performed well in the All-Star game on Tuesday.
Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Joe Ryan and outfielder Byron Buxton both earned All-Star selections this season. Buxton did not play in the game on Tuesday due to injury, but Ryan was available and he pitched in the fourth inning of the contest.
Ryan pitched well, as he held the National League scoreless. He did give up one hit, but the Twins' right-handed hurler also had two strikeouts. It was a strong performance for a pitcher who has played well for most of the season.
Ryan has pitched to a 2.85 ERA across 20 outings so far this season. He has recorded 128 strikeouts in his 110.1 innings of work on the mound.
The 30-year-old is now a two-time All-Star. He earned his first All-Star selection last year. He pitched to a 3.42 ERA last season, but Ryan has been even better so far in 2026.
It is also worth noting that his 20 starts currently lead the league. Ryan has been going out every fifth day and giving his ball club opportunities to win. It seems as if he is continuing to improve, and there is no question that Ryan is now among the best starters in the game.
Joe Ryan's Performance Helping Twins in Crucial Manner
The fact of the matter is that the Twins were not expected to compete for a postseason spot before the season began. Minnesota's roster had no shortage of question marks, and losing Pablo Lopez to an injury added even more uncertainty to the team's outlook.
While the Twins are not exactly playing elite baseball, the team has upset expectations. They are 48-49 at the All-Star break. Minnesota happens to play in a winnable American League Central division. The Twins are only three games behind the Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Guardians for first place in the division.
Winning the division will still be a challenge. The White Sox have been a surprising contender, but they have been playing good baseball. Meanwhile, the Guardians have been one of the more consistent teams in the American League over the years. Nevertheless, the Twins are in contention and Joe Ryan is a big reason why.
Trade rumors will continue to swirl, and Ryan has been mentioned as a potential trade candidate. If the Twins are able to emerge as a legitimate contender, however, one has to wonder if Ryan will end up staying with the ball club.
