With just over two weeks remaining until the MLB trade deadline, the Minnesota Twins find themselves in the midst of a competitive playoff race, positioned two games below .500 and four games behind for the American League’s final Wild Card spot. They share this precarious position with the Angels and trail the Rays and Rangers, while the Mariners currently hold the postseason’s last available berth. The team’s playoff hopes hinge on performance in the upcoming weeks as they try to close the gap in a crowded field of bubble teams.
No Active Discussions on Joe Ryan Trade at This Time
According to Robert Murray of FanSided, the Twins have not yet engaged in serious trade talks regarding selling off players, particularly concerning their All-Star starting pitcher Joe Ryan. While the organization remains open to reassessing options if their season deteriorates, there is currently no focus on trading Ryan. MLB Network’s Jon Morosi emphasized that only a situation in which the Twins are entirely out of contention combined with an irresistible offer would prompt the team to consider moving Ryan.
Leadership’s Perspective and Upcoming Schedule Highlight Team’s Intentions
Derek Falvey, the Twins’ president of baseball operations, shared with SKOR North’s Darren Wolfson that many teams on the playoff fringe are likely to wait until the last moments before deciding whether to sell. Although acknowledging external interest in Minnesota’s promising pitching roster, Falvey expressed hope for improved team performance following the All-Star Break and showed no urgency to initiate trades. The Twins are scheduled for a favorable series at Coors Field, followed by road games against the Dodgers and home stands against the Nationals and Red Sox leading into the deadline, providing multiple opportunities to boost their standing.
Joe Ryan’s Value and Impact on the Team’s Future
If the Twins decide to shift to a selling approach, interest in Ryan would be immediate and intense. At 29 years old, Ryan has consistently advanced his performance over his four-plus years in the majors. He currently holds a career-best 2.72 earned run average while striking out over 28% of batters across 19 appearances. His affordable $3 million salary and arbitration control for the next two seasons make him a highly attractive asset. Trading him would essentially concede the 2025 season and significantly weaken the pitching rotation for future campaigns.
Rotation Challenges and Consequences of Trading Ryan
Ryan has been the most dependable pitcher amid a rotation adversely affected by injuries to Pablo López and Zebby Matthews. While the starting pitching numbers have shown some improvement in July, the Twins recorded the worst ERA in the majors during June. A trade involving Ryan would be a clear signal that the franchise is prioritizing rebuilding over immediate contention, a move unlikely while the team remains within striking distance of the playoffs.
Other Potential Trade Candidates If the Twins Shift Strategy
Although Joe Ryan remains the centerpiece of any potential trade discussion, Minnesota holds additional valuable pieces that could attract offers. High-leverage relievers Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax are likely to draw attention from clubs seeking bullpen reinforcement. Additionally, impending free agents like Willi Castro and Harrison Bader provide quality options at position player roles. Starter Chris Paddack might also intrigue organizations looking for back-end rotation help. Jon Heyman of The New York Post recently noted that if the Twins fall further in the standings, they could engage seriously in offers involving Duran, Jax, Castro, Bader, and Paddack.
Byron Buxton’s Stability and Commitment to the Club
In contrast to trade speculation around other players, star center fielder Byron Buxton remains firmly entrenched with Minnesota. Signed through 2028, Buxton is enjoying what could be described as a career-defining season when healthy. Even in the remote event that trading him was considered internally, Buxton’s full no-trade clause and stated reluctance to waive it ensure he is not moving. He confirmed to Jon Heyman that he has no interest in leaving the only major league team he has ever played for, reflecting his commitment to the Twins’ organization.
The Road Ahead and Implications for the Twins’ Strategy
As the July 31 trade deadline nears, the Twins are in a position where performance during the next two weeks could decisively shape their season’s fate. Their current stance on Joe Ryan trade talks status underscores a desire to remain competitive and capitalize on their controllable pitching talent. Should the team falter, a shift toward selling key assets becomes more likely, but for now, Minnesota aims to leverage its upcoming schedule to remain in playoff contention. This approach indicates cautious optimism and strategic patience from baseball operations as the team seeks to balance immediate success with long-term stability.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Joe Ryan healthy?
A. Ryan was out for the last two months of the 2024 season because of a shoulder injury. Now, in Fort Myers, he seems strong and in good health. His consistent performance gives hope to the Twins, as it looks like he is getting back to his old self.
Q. How did the twins get Joe Ryan?
A. On July 22, 2021, Ryan was in Tokyo for the 2020 Summer Olympics, competing for his country. During this time, he and Drew Strotman were exchanged for Nelson Cruz and Calvin Faucher in a trade to the Minnesota Twins.