Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Twins Commit to Core Players for 2026 Push

12/6/2025

38 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Minnesota Twins will retain center fielder Byron Buxton and pitchers Joe Ryan and Pablo Lopez, building around stars to compete in 2026.
Insider Ken Rosenthal reports team intends to keep its core after a 2025 season (70-92) and avoid trading talent.
Trading Buxton or Ryan could alienate fans, despite financial challenges.
The Twins are expected to seek bullpen help and add hitters to support their goals.

History

Historical Context

The Minnesota Twins, established in 1961, faced significant challenges in the 2000s, including a near contraction in 2002. After a resurgence in 2019 with a franchise-record 101 wins, the team struggled again, finishing 2025 with a 70-92 record. This prompted a strategic shift to retain key players like Byron Buxton, reflecting a trend in Major League Baseball towards core player retention for competitive viability.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Minnesota Twins will retain center fielder Byron Buxton and pitchers Joe Ryan and Pablo Lopez, building around stars to compete in 2026.
Insider Ken Rosenthal reports team intends to keep its core after a 2025 season (70-92) and avoid trading talent.
Trading Buxton or Ryan could alienate fans, despite financial challenges.
The Twins are expected to seek bullpen help and add hitters to support their goals.

1 / 2