With López sidelined, attention shifts to the Twins’ trade landscape, particularly the ongoing chatter around All-Star right-hander Joe Ryan. Ryan broke out in 2025 with a 3.42 ERA over 30 starts and 171 innings, earning his first All-Star selection. The injury to López could renew interest from multiple clubs, including the Atlanta Braves, who are in the market for pitching depth after injuries to other arms in their system.
A recent trade concept envisions the Braves acquiring Ryan from Minnesota while sending back prospects Alex Lodise and left-hander Cam Caminiti. Because Ryan is arbitration-eligible with several years of control remaining, Minnesota would likely seek additional pieces to balance any deal and bolster its farm system as it evaluates a path forward.
If the Twins decide to entertain offers for Ryan, the Braves could benefit from inserting a high-profile, reliable starter into their rotation. Currently, Atlanta’s rotation features Chris Sale, Spencer Strider, Reynaldo López, Grant Holmes, and either Joey Wentz or Bryce Elder. Ryan would provide stability and flexibility, especially with Schwellenbach’s injury status.
Overall, López’s injury amplifies the market for starting pitching and could catalyze intensified trade timing for clubs seeking a durable arm. While it remains unclear whether Minnesota will move Joe Ryan, the market response to López’s injury suggests several contenders may explore a move to bolster their rotations in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Heavy Sports and reflects a compilation of trade discussions and expert commentary surrounding the Twins, López’s injury, and potential fits for Joe Ryan, including a hypothetical Braves–Twins deal.
