As the crack of the bat echoes through the stadium, baseball is officially back in Minnesota. The Twins are set to kick off their 2026 season with a seven-inning exhibition game against the University of Minnesota's baseball team. First pitch is on the docket for 5:05 CST, marking a fresh chapter under new manager Derek Shelton, who’s already making bold moves with his lineup.
Shelton’s first lineup card is all about opportunity. Kody Clemens and Gio Urshela are getting the nod at second and third base, respectively. Clemens will step up to the plate in the third spot, while Urshela takes on cleanup duties.
Zebby Matthews is another player to keep an eye on as he takes the mound. With aspirations of joining the starting rotation, this game is a key opportunity for him to make an impression.
Gio Urshela is back in familiar territory with the Twins after a journey through the Angels, Tigers, and Athletics. His return to Minnesota could be just what he needs to reignite his career. Urshela had a strong season with the Twins back in 2022, and now he’s looking to recapture that magic.
Kody Clemens, meanwhile, is coming off a solid year with 19 home runs and a .725 OPS. The infield is crowded, but Clemens’ versatility could be his ticket to staying on the roster. A strong spring performance will make it tough for coaches to sideline him.
Adding to the excitement, Josh Bell is set to make his debut with the Twins. Batting second and playing first base, Bell comes off a 22-home-run season with the Nationals. As the team’s marquee winter acquisition, fans and coaches alike will be eager to see what he brings to the table.
On the pitching side, Zebby Matthews has a golden opportunity. With Pablo Lopez sidelined for the season due to Tommy John surgery, the door is wide open for Matthews to stake his claim in the rotation. A standout performance this spring could secure his spot.
As the Twins take the field, the anticipation is palpable. It's a new season with new faces and fresh opportunities, and the journey starts today.