Spring Training Spotlight: Twins Gear Up for Grapefruit League Opener
As the sun shines over Fort Myers, the excitement of spring training is in full swing. With the Grapefruit League set to kick off on Saturday, fans are in for a treat as they get a glimpse of what the Opening Day roster might look like. Among the highlights, Joe Ryan is set to take the mound, adding a touch of anticipation to the game.
Ryan was a standout for the Twins in the 2025 season, earning an All-Star selection with a solid 13-10 record, a 3.42 ERA, and racking up 194 strikeouts over 171 innings. His impressive 1.04 WHIP underscored his reliability, even as trade rumors swirled around him during the offseason. As the Twins look to lean on their rotation in 2026, Ryan stands out as the ace-like figure they’ll rely on.
But before the Grapefruit League action begins, the Twins will face off against the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers in a seven-inning exhibition on Friday. This game, also broadcast on Twins.TV, offers fans an early look at Zebby Matthews, who will be taking the mound.
Matthews was a spring training sensation last year, thanks to a boost in velocity. However, his 2025 season didn’t quite live up to the early hype, ending with a 5.56 ERA.
Manager Rocco Baldelli has emphasized the need for consistency, a sentiment Matthews echoed as he reflected on his first year in the big leagues. With time and experience, Matthews hopes to find the success that matches his potential.
As the Twins prepare for the upcoming season, these early games offer a valuable opportunity to assess talent and build momentum. Fans tuning in can expect an engaging start to what promises to be an exciting baseball year.