The Minnesota Twins are gearing up for the 2025 season, with a focus on rebuilding and strategic moves. Here's a breakdown of their progress and key areas to watch.
Manager and Front Office Changes
- Manager: Derek Shelton takes the reins for his first season as manager, aiming to lead the team to success.
- Front Office: Jeremy Zoll, the executive vice president and general manager, is new to the role this season, bringing fresh leadership to the Twins' operations.
Financial Considerations
The Twins are facing a significant financial hit with the largest luxury tax burden on RHP Pablo Lopez, who will cost the team $18.4 million. This highlights the need for cost-effective moves and strategic player acquisitions.
Top Returning Players and Pitchers
- Offensive Stars: OF Byron Buxton, C Ryan Jeffers, and 2B Luke Keaschall are key returning players, each contributing positively in terms of fWAR.
- Starting Pitchers: RHP Joe Ryan, Pablo Lopez, and RHP Zebby Matthews are the top returning starters, with varying records and ERAs from the previous season.
- Relievers: RHP Justin Topa, RHP Cole Sands, and LHP Kody Funderburk are the top returning relievers, offering crucial support in closing games.
Roster Moves
The Twins have made several additions and losses to their roster:
Additions:
- 1B Josh Bell and C Victor Caratini were signed as free agents.
- LHP Taylor Rogers and LHP Anthony Banda were acquired through trades.
- Several minor league players, including RHP Eric Orze, C Alex Jackson, and RHP Raul Brito, have been added.
Losses:
- 2B Edouard Julien, LHP Genesis Cabrera, C Christian Vazquez, and RHP Michael Tonkin were traded or signed away as free agents.
Key Players to Watch
- Pablo Lopez: Despite missing half of the 2024 season due to injury, Lopez is a key pitcher to watch. His UCL tear will impact the rotation's depth.
- Joe Ryan: With a solid record and ERA, Ryan is a reliable starter. The team hopes that other pitchers like Bailey Ober and Simeon Woods Richardson can step up.
- Taylor Rogers: The return of LHP Taylor Rogers, traded to the Padres in 2022, adds experience to the bullpen. However, his recent save drought raises questions.
- Shortstop Situation: The Twins are still deciding on their shortstop, with switch-hitter Brooks Lee emerging as a potential candidate after a strong debut season.
Fangraphs Projection
Fangraphs predicts the Twins will finish with 79.8 wins, suggesting a competitive season ahead. However, the team's success will depend on effective roster management and player performance.
Keep an Eye On
The Twins' ability to fill the void left by key players and maintain a strong lineup will be crucial. Additionally, the team's approach to addressing the shortstop position and managing the rotation's depth will be interesting to follow.
