Overall, the 2026 season was a much better one for the Twins, one year after a rough year marked by inconsistencies and trades. It will be an interesting winter, thanks to two high-profile pitchers who could hit the market soon. But what could the Twins use now?
Biggest needs for Twins
The Twins lost 1B/DH Josh Bell to free agency after what was a very good season for the switch-hitter. Bell was the primary run producer for Minnesota with 96 RBI, and he was one of four 20+ home run hitters (Kody Clemens, Byron Buxton & Brooks Lee were the other three) on the club.
Now, the Twins do have a lot of internal depth for their prospective 2027 lineup. Ryan Jeffers (assuming he remains a Twin), Lee, Clemens, and Kaelen Culpepper all figure into the equation, with Victor Caratini and Royce Lewis in the mix as well.
Lewis played first and second as a utility player with Minnesota after he was recalled from an in-season demotion.
As for the outfield, there’s Trevor Larnach, Luke Keaschall, rookies Walker Jenkins and Emmanuel Rodriguez, plus the aforementioned Buxton. So, the Twins could look for an internal push to replace Bell’s production. Or, try to find a depth bat piece.
The pitching becomes more of an interesting situation.
On paper, the Twins’ rotation is fine. And if Pablo Lopez, who missed all of 2026 and a healthy chunk of 2025, can come back strong at some point next season, that would be a jolt to a rotation that will also likely include Taj Bradley and Zebby Matthews.
But what do the Twins do with Ryan and Lopez, both of whom can become free agents after 2027? You may very well not see any decision until after the likely lockout but it’s something to watch.
The Twins tried to patch up the bullpen in the summer, bringing in Tommy Nance, now-free agent A.J. Minter, and Jeff Hoffman. It was in response to a strong first half by Minnesota, coupled with a shaky bullpen. Overall, the club’s relief core finished 26th in ERA (4.74) and had the sixth-most walks (293).
Hoffman pitched very well last season outside of a closer’s role. Yet, bullpen depth is that one area that should be a focal point to improve.
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