Joe Ryan Isn't Going Anywhere - And That's Exactly What the Twins Need Right Now
For much of this offseason, the buzz around the Minnesota Twins has centered on one name: Joe Ryan. The 27-year-old right-hander has been the subject of persistent trade rumors, with plenty of teams reportedly calling to see if Minnesota might be open to dealing one of their most controllable and promising arms. But according to multiple reports, including one from Ken Rosenthal earlier this month, the Twins are holding firm - Ryan’s not on the block.
That’s big news for a team that’s been walking a fine line between retooling and contending. The decision to keep Ryan, along with Pablo López and Byron Buxton, signals that Minnesota isn’t throwing in the towel on 2026.
In fact, they’re doubling down on a core they believe can compete - and the recent addition of first baseman Josh Bell on a one-year deal backs that up. You don’t sign a veteran bat like Bell for a short-term stint if you’re tearing it all down.
You do it when you think you’ve got a shot to win now.
The Trade Rumors Keep Coming - But the Twins Aren’t Biting
Despite the noise, the Twins have made it clear: they’re not shopping Joe Ryan. Teams continue to check in - and who can blame them?
Ryan’s under team control for two more seasons, and in today’s market, that kind of value doesn’t go unnoticed. But according to sources close to the situation, Minnesota hasn’t even discussed Ryan with other clubs since before the GM meetings in early November.
And while that might come as a surprise to some - especially after the Twins moved nearly 40% of their MLB roster at last July’s trade deadline in a push to shed payroll and restock the farm system - it’s a calculated move. Yes, trading Ryan would bring back a haul of young talent. But it would also gut a rotation that still has the potential to anchor a playoff run in a winnable AL Central.
Why Keeping Ryan Is the Right Call
Let’s be real: the last two seasons haven’t gone the way Minnesota hoped. Injuries, inconsistency, and a lack of offensive firepower have kept them from making serious noise in October.
But this team isn’t that far off. Ryan and López, if they stay healthy, give the Twins a legitimate one-two punch at the top of the rotation.
The bullpen has shown flashes, and the lineup has young hitters who are still developing into their roles.
There are plenty of “ifs” here - no doubt about it. But in a division that doesn’t feature a clear powerhouse, the Twins are wise to see what this group can do before making any drastic moves.
If things go south by next summer’s trade deadline, there’s still time to pivot. But for now, holding onto Ryan and adding pieces like Bell suggests Minnesota is ready to give it one more real shot.
A Vote of Confidence in the Core
This isn’t just about Joe Ryan. It’s about the message the Twins are sending - to their fans, to the clubhouse, and to the rest of the league.
They believe in this group. They’re not content to sit back and wait for a rebuild to bear fruit in a few years.
They want to compete now.
And for fans who’ve been waiting to see this team take the next step, that’s exactly the kind of conviction you want to see from the front office. Ryan isn’t just a trade chip - he’s a foundational piece. And for at least the start of 2026, he’s staying right where he belongs: on the mound in a Twins uniform.