The Minnesota Twins are facing a Royce Lewis reality that cannot be ignored. The primary conversation around Lewis over the past few years has revolved around his ceiling if he can stay healthy. At this point, we all know Lewis features the potential of a superstar, but injuries have continued to be a problem. However, there is now a catch to the situation. 

The Twins may still be in trouble even if Lewis finally has his healthy breakout campaign in 2026. 

Lewis has been limited by injuries throughout his time in the big leagues. He made his MLB debut back in 2022, but Lewis' career-high in games played is only 106 -- something he accomplished in 2025.

Following the 2026 season, Lewis will only have two more years on his contract. If he breaks out during the '26 campaign and manages to stay on the field, the small-market Twins may need to begin having conversations about whether or not they will trade him. 

The idea of a contract extension could emerge, but there are two reasons why a deal may prove to be unlikely. Minnesota, as mentioned, is a smaller market. If Lewis plays up to his full potential, he may want to see what kind of contract he can get elsewhere. As for the Twins, they may be hesitant to give Lewis a long-term contract given his injury history. 

On the other hand, there is the chance that Lewis is limited once again in 2026. In a perfect world, Lewis would stay healthy. However, there's no denying the fact that injuries have impacted his career.

If Lewis has another injury-riddled campaign, Minnesota may need to begin having serious discussions about moving on from him.

He will turn 27 years old this year. Lewis is not the young and exciting prospect that he once was. The two years remaining on his deal could prove to be a saving grace in trade talks should Minnesota decide to trade him if injuries limit him once again.

Either way, the Twins are not in an ideal situation. A contract extension would offer risk, while having to trade a player with such a high ceiling brings risk as well. 

In the end, both the Twins and Royce Lewis are hopeful that he will be able to have a healthy campaign. That is the primary focus at the moment.