Twins Intend to Retain Core Players, Aim to Compete in 2026
MINNEAPOLIS – The Minnesota Twins are not planning to trade star players Byron Buxton, Joe Ryan, or Pablo López this offseason, according to sources familiar with the team’s internal discussions. Minnesota’s front office is focused on building around its current core and contending in the American League Central in 2026.
The decision comes after a period of uncertainty for the franchise, which underwent a mid-season roster overhaul in July. The August declaration of new minority ownership groups within the Pohlad family was partially motivated by a need to address the team’s $425 million debt.
While financial considerations remain, team officials recognize that trading popular players like Ryan and buxton would likely damage fan relations. They believe the current roster is capable of competing in the AL Central, widely considered one of baseball’s weaker divisions, particularly with the recent hiring of a new manager, Derek shelton. Ownership clarity has also provided the team with ”mild flexibility” to pursue targeted additions.
The Twins’ primary needs are bullpen reinforcements following meaningful trades at the deadline, and potentially a first baseman. FanGraphs currently projects the Twins to finish with an 82-80 record. Last season, the Cleveland Guardians won the AL Central with an 88-74 record, while the twins finished at 70-92.
Despite the Twins’ intent to retain their stars, rival teams are expected to continue expressing interest. minnesota will listen to offers, as is standard practice, but would require a substantially compelling package to part with Buxton, Ryan, or López.
Buxton, 32, has three years and $45 million remaining on his contract, and holds full no-trade protection through 2026. López, 29, is under contract for two years at $43 million. Ryan, 29, is projected to earn $5.8 million in his next-to-last year of arbitration eligibility before becoming a free agent.
– Dan Hayes contributed to this report.
