Twins Offseason Hinges on Ryan Jeffers and Pablo López
Headline: Twins Face Pivotal Offseason Decisions on Jeffers, López
Key Roster Decisions Loom
As the Minnesota Twins look to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season, the focus of their offseason will center around two key players: catcher Ryan Jeffers and starting pitcher Pablo López.
Jeffers, 28, has emerged as a solid two-way contributor behind the plate, providing above-average defense and power at the plate. After hitting .265 with 17 home runs last year, Jeffers enters 2026 with three years of team control remaining. The Twins must decide whether to build around the young backstop or explore trading him for prospects.
Meanwhile, the future of right-hander Pablo López remains uncertain. The 29-year-old enjoyed a breakout 2025 campaign, earning his first All-Star selection, and is widely viewed as the Twins' most valuable trade chip. With one year of team control left, Minnesota must weigh the option of cashing in on López's rising value or attempting to extend him long-term.
Prospects on the Horizon
Beyond their current MLB roster, the Twins' farm system has also generated buzz, with several top pitching prospects nearing the big leagues.
Right-handers Joe Ryan, Cole Sands, and Marco Raya are among the organization's most promising arms. Ryan, 25, is coming off an All-Star season and could be a target for contenders looking to acquire young, controllable starting pitching. Sands, 28, has proven himself as a reliable bullpen option, while the 21-year-old Raya continues to climb the minor league ranks.
Outfielder Matt Wallner and shortstop Brooks Lee also offer intriguing upside as position player prospects. Wallner, 24, made his MLB debut in 2025 and provides power and defensive versatility. Lee, the Twins' 2022 first-round pick, is widely regarded as one of the best shortstop prospects in baseball.
Offseason Outlook
As the Twins front office weighs its options this winter, the decisions made regarding Jeffers, López, and the team's top prospects could significantly shape the franchise's direction for years to come.
A potential trade of López would likely net the Twins a substantial haul of young talent, but it would also create a void atop their starting rotation. Conversely, signing the right-hander to an extension would provide stability, but at a significant financial cost.
Similarly, a Jeffers trade could bring back valuable prospects, but it would leave the Twins searching for a new long-term solution behind the plate. Retaining the 28-year-old catcher could provide continuity, but may limit the team's flexibility to address other roster needs.
Ultimately, the Twins' offseason decisions will hinge on their overall strategic vision. Are they ready to fully commit to a rebuild, or do they believe they can quickly reload and contend in 2026? The answers to these questions will become clearer in the coming months as the Hot Stove heats up.
TL;DR
- The Minnesota Twins face pivotal offseason decisions on catcher Ryan Jeffers and starting pitcher Pablo López.
- Top pitching prospects like Joe Ryan, Cole Sands, and Marco Raya are nearing the majors and could be trade targets.
- Outfielder Matt Wallner and shortstop Brooks Lee offer intriguing position player talent in the Twins' farm system.
- The Twins must weigh whether to rebuild or reload as they look to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season.