The Minnesota Twins spring training opener is set to take place on Friday.
The Minnesota Twins are using this year's spring training as an opportunity to evaluate young talent, and one early decision is already drawing attention this week. As the organization looks to balance internal development with competitiveness, giving emerging players meaningful opportunities has become a clear priority.
That approach is evident with starting pitcher Zebby Matthews, a rising arm in the system who continues to gain traction within the organization. Matthews has steadily worked his way into the conversation as a potential contributor, thanks to a combination of command, composure and the ability to generate consistent results across levels.
On Thursday, Twins manager Derek Shelton shared he would be the first starter for the club this year in the spring. “Derek Shelton said Zebby Matthews will start the Twins’ spring training opener Friday vs. the Gophers,” reported Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic.
The assignment is notable. Spring training openers often go to pitchers the organization wants to challenge or showcase early on, and this decision signals growing confidence in Matthews’ development. It also reflects the Twins’ willingness to give younger players early exposure against competitive hitters.
Matthews’ 2025 performance supports that optimism. He did struggle across 16 starts, owning a 5.56 ERA and a 5-6 record. However, he did record 88 strikeouts in just 79 1/3 innings of work.
This move is significant for multiple reasons. First, it highlights the Twins’ evolving pitching pipeline and their focus on internal growth. Rather than relying solely on external additions, the organization appears committed to developing its next wave of contributors from within as it enters a key season in 2026.
Second, it provides Matthews with a valuable opportunity to make an impression early in camp and prove he deserves a spot on the rotation to replace Pablo Lopez. Strong outings in spring training can accelerate a player’s timeline, potentially putting him in consideration for a call‑up later in the season.
Finally, it ties into the Twins’ broader outlook. The team is aiming to remain competitive in a division without a clear runaway favorite, and contributions from young pitchers could play a key role in that effort. If Matthews continues to build on his 2025 performance, he could become part of that equation sooner rather than later.
For now, all eyes will be on his first outing. It may only be a spring training game, but it represents a meaningful step in his development and a glimpse into the Twins’ future plans.