As the Minnesota Twins gear up for their 2026 spring training, there's plenty of buzz surrounding their upcoming games. They'll kick things off with a matchup against the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Friday, followed by a clash with the Boston Red Sox on Saturday. Fans are eager to see the Twins back in action, and here's what's unfolding in camp.
Setting the Tone: Tom Pohlad's Vision
Before the Twins took to the field for their first full-squad workout, executive chair Tom Pohlad addressed the team, setting a clear vision for the season. Pohlad emphasized aligning with the new leadership, including Derek Shelton and Jeremy Zoll, and expressed his commitment to being more involved with the team. It's a move that signals Pohlad's dedication to fostering a cohesive and motivated atmosphere.
Pitching Developments: New Weapons for Merryweather and Prielipp
Julian Merryweather, recently signed from the Cubs, is looking to bounce back from a challenging 2025 season. During camp, he's introduced a splitter to his repertoire, leaving hitters baffled. Known for his fastball and slider, Merryweather's heater reached 96 mph in practice, showing promise for the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, top prospect Connor Prielipp is also expanding his arsenal. Adding a curveball to his mix, Prielipp aims to enhance his ability to entice hitters into chasing pitches. With a sinker already in his toolkit, the Twins are optimistic about his potential to disrupt opposing batters.
Zebby Matthews: Ready to Impress
On Friday, all eyes will be on Zebby Matthews as he takes the mound against the Golden Gophers. Matthews, aiming for a spot in the starting rotation, boasts an impressive array of pitches, including a mid-to-high-90s fastball and a variety of breaking balls. His dominance in the minors hints at his potential to make a significant impact.
Joe Ryan Set for Saturday Showdown
Saturday's game against the Red Sox will see Joe Ryan face off against lefty Payton Tolle. Ryan, a key figure in the Twins' rotation, is expected to showcase his skills as he prepares for the season ahead.
The game promises to be a thrilling contest, with first pitch scheduled for 12:05 p.m. CST.
As the Twins dive into spring training, the excitement is palpable. With new pitches, fresh leadership, and a clear vision, they're setting the stage for an intriguing season.