The Minnesota Twins have yet to initiate trade talks regarding right-handed pitcher Joe Ryan, despite growing interest from other MLB teams ahead of the trade deadline. As one of the more reliable starting pitchers available, Ryan remains a valuable asset, but Minnesota’s current position suggests they are not ready to move him just yet.
Joe Ryan’s Performance and Role in the Twins’ Rotation
Joe Ryan, who recently turned 29, has been an impressive starter this season, posting a 2.72 ERA and a remarkable 0.91 ERA specifically this year. His 9-4 record stands out, especially given the Twins’ overall struggles. Holding team control through 2027 makes Ryan an attractive option for contenders looking to strengthen their pitching staff. He is seen as a potential second or third starter in a playoff rotation due to his consistency and durability.
Context Surrounding the Twins’ Season and Trade Deadline Strategy
Though the Twins remain competitive within the historically weak American League Central, their poor start has hindered their playoff chances. Currently 11.5 games behind the division leader and four games out of the wild card race, Minnesota is positioned among potential sellers at the deadline. However, the team still holds significant talent and may avoid a full rebuild, with Ryan’s future a key part of those considerations. Trading him could yield a large return but might contradict the Twins’ goal of remaining competitive beyond this season.
External Interest and Potential Destinations for Ryan
Among the teams linked to Ryan, the Boston Red Sox have shown hypothetical interest. Acquiring Ryan would provide Boston with a strong complement behind Garrett Crochet in their starting rotation. While other possible trade candidates like Sandy Alcantara and Zac Gallen carry reputations, Ryan combines both proven performance this year and long-term team control, making him a compelling option for contending clubs aiming to strengthen their pitching depth.
Current Trade Dialogue and What Lies Ahead
According to FanSided writer Robert Murray,
“The Minnesota Twins have yet to have conversations with other teams about right-hander Joe Ryan and at 47-49, have not had any conversations about selling, sources say,”
indicating that any trade involving Ryan remains premature. As the deadline approaches, monitoring the Twins’ stance and other teams’ pursuit of Ryan will be critical to understanding the market’s direction.
Significance of Ryan’s Potential Move in MLB’s Trade Market
If the Twins decide to trade Joe Ryan, his value would likely make him one of the top pitching targets available, influencing the strategies of several playoff contenders. His blend of youth, performance, and contractual control positions him as a key figure in this year’s trade deadline discussions. The next steps for Minnesota will reveal whether they prioritize rebuilding or maintaining a competitive roster heading into future seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Joe Ryan healthy?
A. Ryan was absent for the last two months of the 2024 season because of a shoulder strain. Now, he seems fit and strong in Fort Myers. His consistent performance while pitching is encouraging for the Twins. It looks like he is getting back to how he played before.
Q. How did the twins get Joe Ryan?
A. On July 22, 2021, Ryan was in Tokyo for the 2020 Summer Olympics. That day, he was traded to the Minnesota Twins along with Drew Strotman. In exchange, Nelson Cruz and Calvin Faucher went to the other team.