Minnesota Twins DVOA, Stats, & MLB Rankings

Minnesota Twins outfield prospect Emmanuel Rodriguez (ankle) sprained his left ankle last week and will be delayed for a week or two from participating in spring training camp. In addition to his ankle injury, the 21-year-old is recovered from surgery he had on his right thumb last November. The Dominican outfielder has had a problem with the injury bug so far in his professional career and has not exceeded 100 games played since joining the organization in 2021. He played in 47 games over four minor-league levels in 2024 and slashed an impressive .280/.459/.567 with a 1.026 OPS, nine home runs, 27 RBI, nine stolen bases and 47 runs scored in 47 games played. If Rodriguez can get past his injuries and reduce his strikeouts, he could be an intriguing power prospect at the big-league level sooner than later. First and foremost, he needs to stay healthy and will almost certainly begin the year in the minors in 2025.

According to Phil Miller of the Minnesota Star Tribune, Twins right-handed pitcher Matt Canterino (shoulder) threw his first bullpen session and appears to be a full-go for spring training. Canterino missed the entire 2023 campaign after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He was able to participate in spring training last year but then suffered a torn rotator cuff, which kept him out for the entire 2024 season. Earlier in the offseason, the team noted that Canterino is expected to pitch out of the bullpen in order to limit his workload and keep him healthy. During the 2022 season, the former second-round selection held an impressive 1.83 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP across 34 1/3 innings at Double-A. He struck out 50 batters and served up 22 free passes. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status, as he could eventually find a role in the major-league bullpen.

According to Bill Ladson of MLB.com, Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Joe Ryan (shoulder) completed a 36-pitch bullpen session on Thursday and did not face any setbacks. Manager Rocco Baldelli noted that the right-hander look in "midseason" form. Ryan ended the 2024 season on the injured list due to a Grade 2 teres major strain he suffered in August. However, the 28-year-old was able to have a normal offseason. Seeing him throw a successful bullpen early in spring training and not facing any setbacks is a positive sign. Fantasy managers should continue monitoring his status but expect him to be locked into the starting rotation on Opening Day. Last summer, Ryan was enjoying a breakout season as he posted a 3.60 ERA with a 0.99 WHIP across 135 frames. He struck out 147 batters and held a stellar 4.3 percent walk rate. If cleared for action, Ryan will likely slot in as the No. 2 option behind Pablo Lopez.

According to Bobby Nightengale of the Minnesota Star Tribune, Twins starting pitcher Chris Paddack is "seen as a part of the rotation." Paddack has battled injuries throughout the past three seasons but will enter spring training fully healthy. Given his current status, fantasy managers should expect the 29-year-old to be penciled in a rotation spot. Last summer, Paddack logged 88 1/3 innings in the majors and held a 4.99 ERA with a 1.39 WHIP. He dealt with a forearm strain late in the season and was nearing a return for the postseason. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status during spring training as his performance and status could dictate his place on the Opening Day roster. Last season, he generated strikeouts at a weak 20.6 percent rate but showed strong command with a 5.5 percent walk rate. If Paddack faces a setback or struggles, Minnesota's young arms like David Feta or Zebby Matthews could overtake his spot.

According to Betsy Helfand of TwinCities.com, Twins right-handed pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson is viewed as a "leading" candidate for the fifth starter role. While he is not guaranteed the spot, he is viewed as the top option entering camp. Minnesota's young pitchers, such as David Festa and Zebby Matthews, will compete for this spot alongside Woods Richardson. Last season, Woods Richardson logged a career-high 133 2/3 innings. During his first 82 frames, the 24-year-old was quite effective as he held a 3.51 ERA with a 1.15 WHIP. However, over his final 51 2/3, Woods Richardson took a step back as he posted a 5.23 ERA with a 1.53 WHIP. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his progress during spring training, as he could be a viable low-end starting pitcher in deeper formats if he earns a permanent spot in the rotation.