Zebby Matthews DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

The Minnesota Twins have optioned right-handed pitcher Zebby Matthews to Triple-A St. Paul. Matthews was competing for a spot during spring training but fell short. He will begin his 2025 campaign with the St. Paul Saints. In spring training, the right-hander was one of the most dominant pitchers as he tossed nine 1/3 shutout innings. He allowed just four hits and held a near-perfect 1:12 BB:K ratio. The Western Carolina product made his MLB debut last season and struggled over his brief stint as he held a 6.69 ERA with a 1.65 WHIP across 37 2/3 innings. The right-hander held a strong 2.60 ERA with a stellar 0.87 WHIP across 97 innings split between High, Double, and Triple-A before reaching the majors. Fantasy managers should expect Matthews to be the first name called when the Twins need additional depth in their rotation.

Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Zebby Matthews (hip) tossed three shutout frames in his return on Wednesday. Matthews allowed just one base runner (via a base on balls) and tallied five punchouts. The young right-hander was dealing with a minor hip injury but appears to be past this given his strong performance. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his status during camp as he could have a chance to claim the No. 5 spot in the rotation. Last season, Matthews made his MLB debut and logged 37 2/3 innings with a high 6.69 ERA and a 1.65 WHIP. He tallied 43 punchouts while holding a strong 4.3 percent walk. In the minor leagues, he held a 2.60 ERA with a 0.87 WHIP across 97 innings across High, Double, and Triple-A. If he opens the season at Triple-A St. Paul, Chris Paddack will likely claim the final spot in the rotation.

Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Zebby Matthews (hip) is recovering well from his hip strain and is expected to throw a bullpen on Sunday. This is a great sign as the 24-year-old exited Thursday's spring training contest early with this injury. Fantasy managers should monitor his status after the bullpen as he could be nearing a return to game action if he performs well. Matthews is currently competing for a spot at the back of the starting rotation. Last season, Matthews made his MLB debut and logged 37 2/3 innings to the tune of a 6.69 ERA and a 1.45 WHIP. However, removing two starts in which he allowed six or more runs, he held a solid 3.58 ERA with a 1.29 WHIP in the majors. Earlier in the summer, the Western Carolina product held a stellar 1.95 ERA and a 0.76 WHIP across 55 1/3 innings at Double-A. If this injury were to keep Matthews sidelined for a longer period in camp, David Festa could have a better opportunity to make the Opening Day roster.