The Minnesota Twins made a decision involving Joe Ryan before Wednesday's game against the Washington Nationals.
The Minnesota Twins enter Wednesday with a 16-20 record, yet somehow sit only 1.5 games out of first place in a weak American League Central. The standings have stayed tight despite Minnesota’s inconsistency, but if the Twins want to make any sort of run, they cannot afford more injuries, especially to their already thin pitching staff.
That is why Sunday’s scare involving right-hander Joe Ryan was so concerning. The 29-year-old exited his start against the Toronto Blue Jays after facing just two batters and throwing nine pitches, leaving with right elbow discomfort. For any starting pitcher, elbow issues are an immediate red flag, and the Twins feared the worst.
Fortunately for Minnesota, this situation is not serious. An MRI revealed no structural damage, easing fears of a long-term absence. And on Wednesday, the Twins made the decision to slot Ryan right back into the starting rotation. “Joe Ryan is officially listed as the Twins' scheduled starter for Saturday vs. the Guardians in Cleveland,” reported Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic.
This is good news for both Ryan and the organization. Ryan has been a hot commodity on the trade market for more than a year, and if the Twins fall out of contention, he remains one of their most valuable pieces should they choose to retool the farm system.
But from a team-wide standpoint, the priority is clear: keeping Ryan healthy. With Pablo Lopez already lost for the season before Opening Day, losing Ryan as well would have been the worst-case scenario.
Instead, the Twins will have their ace back on the mound this weekend. Ryan has been solid once again in 2026. After breaking out in 2025 with his first All-Star selection, he has followed it up with a 3.72 ERA and 40 strikeouts across 38 2/3 innings through his first eight starts. He remains the best pitcher in Minnesota’s rotation and one of the most reliable arms in the league.
Ryan has spent his entire MLB career with the Twins, now in his sixth season on the roster. However, he was originally drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2018 MLB Draft, traded to Minnesota before making his big-league debut.
Now officially set to face the division-rival Guardians on Saturday, Ryan’s return gives the Twins a chance to stabilize their season and perhaps finally build some momentum in a division still waiting for someone to take control.