Twins Make Disappointing Joe Ryan Decision on Saturday

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Twins Make Disappointing Joe Ryan Decision on Saturday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 25, 2026 4:50 PM ET

The Minnesota Twins will push Joe Ryan's next start back after the right-hander experienced arm fatigue, changing their pitching plans ahead of an important stretch in the American League Central race. The club is treating the move as a precaution rather than an indication of a more serious issue.

Ryan had been scheduled to start this weekend but will instead receive additional rest before returning to the rotation. Minnesota hopes the extra recovery time will have him ready for next week's series against the Kansas City Royals.

The Twins entered Saturday with a 51-54 record, sitting third in the American League Central, 4.5 games behind the first-place Chicago White Sox. With the trade deadline approaching, protecting one of the club's top starters remains a priority.

Joe Ryan will not start this weekend vs. the A’s due to arm fatigue.

Derek Shelton said the expectation is that he’ll pitch at some point next week vs. the Royals, but nothing is lined up yet.
— Aaron Gleeman (@AaronGleeman) July 25, 2026

According to Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic, manager Derek Shelton expects Ryan to make his next start sometime during next week's series against Kansas City. The Twins have not finalized the exact order of the rotation.

The decision follows Ryan's difficult outing against Cleveland, when he allowed six home runs in four innings. Despite that setback, the organization believes additional rest is the best approach instead of pushing him through arm fatigue.

Ryan has made 21 starts this season, posting a 6-6 record with a 3.38 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 131 strikeouts across 114.1 innings. Earlier this year, he avoided an injured list stint after leaving a May start with elbow soreness, as an MRI revealed no structural damage.

Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan (41) John Jones-Imagn Images

Minnesota's cautious approach is understandable with the pitching staff already dealing with injuries. Giving Ryan several extra days to recover increases the likelihood he'll be available for a key divisional matchup rather than risking a longer absence.

If Ryan returns as expected against the Royals, the Twins will have their top starter back for an important series as they try to gain ground in the AL Central standings. The move may disappoint fans this weekend, but it reflects the organization's focus on Ryan's long-term health.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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