
The Minnesota Twins could have their next star make his MLB debut in 2026. Outfielder Walker Jenkins -- the team's No. 1 overall prospect -- has an MLB ETA set for 2026. That does not mean he is guaranteed to make his big league debut this season, but it certainly is a possibility.
Jenkins seems to be ready for the next level, as he already has experience in both Double-A and Triple-A. The 20-year-old was selected No. 5 overall in the 2023 MLB Draft and has quickly developed into a top prospect in the Twins' farm system. Between four levels of minor league baseball in 2025, Jenkins hit .286/.399/.451 to go along with an .850 OPS, 10 home runs and 17 stolen bases.
While his numbers took a step in the wrong direction once he reached Triple-A -- .242/.324/.396 in 23 games played -- he still displayed signs of potential and is close to being MLB ready.
Jenkins features five-tool potential. He can hit for both power and average. He's a guy who plays respectable defense in the outfield, has a good arm and runs well. Jenkins can probably play any outfield position, but he's currently a center fielder. The left-handed hitting slugger may be an option for the Twins at some point in 2026.
Byron Buxton is a center fielder, but the Twins have played Buxton at designated hitter at times to limit potential injury concerns. Matt Wallner, Austin Martin and James Outman are among the team's other outfield options, but one has to imagine Minnesota will find an everyday role for Jenkins once they decide to promote him to the MLB level.
The Twins will benefit from the offensive boost. They have been a rather inconsistent offensive team in recent seasons. If Buxton and Royce Lewis can stay healthy, Minnesota will take a big step in the right direction. The ball club also signed Josh Bell this offseason. Nevertheless, they won't complain about the added offense once Walker Jenkins receives his opportunity with the big league team.
As mentioned, it remains to be seen exactly when Jenkins will get the promotion. The Twins may want him to develop more before calling him up. With that being said, it seems likely that he will be a candidate to earn the promotion this season, even if it is for September call-ups. However, Jenkins could receive the call earlier than that.