Their roll has continued despite adversity, including Pablo López’s season-ending elbow injury. In the midst of a strong start, Twins right-hander Joe Ryan has already become a frequent target in trade chatter. ESPN’s David Schoenfield listed Ryan as Minnesota’s early trade candidate, outlining why he could be moved and why he might stay put depending on how the season unfolds.
Schoenfield also noted Ryan’s trade value is boosted by how long he’s under team control—through 2027—which would help justify a sizeable return. Any package would likely need highly ranked prospects, potentially larger than notable past deals such as Edward Cabrera’s trade to the Miami Marlins, to reflect Ryan’s ceiling and contract control.
Beyond Ryan, Minnesota could also field other trade conversations, including outfielder Byron Buxton. Buxton is frequently discussed as a potential centerpiece in a midseason deal due to his power and the premium value teams place on impact outfielders at the deadline. The Twins’ direction could hinge on their position in the American League Central as the season progresses.
Ultimately, which players, if any, get moved will depend on Minnesota’s standing and the appetite of contending teams for starting pitching and other assets. This overview reflects Heavy Sports’ reporting, which cited Schoenfield’s trade-cutting analysis and the broader market for Twins veterans as the season unfolds.