Twins make huge Joe Ryan decision after injury scare

Despite being in last place in the AL Central, the Minnesota Twins are only a game and a half behind the division-leading Cleveland Guardians and Detroit Tigers. With a key series against the Cleveland Guardians coming up this weekend, the Twins could use all the help they can get. Luckily, reinforcements look to be on the way. According to longtime team reporter Aaron Gleeman on X (formerly Twitter), ace Joe Ryan is scheduled to start Saturday versus the Guardians on the road.

“Joe Ryan is officially listed as the Twins’ scheduled starter for Saturday vs. the Guardians in Cleveland,” Gleeman posted Wednesday afternoon.

Ryan left his last start against the Toronto Blue Jays after just two batters due to right elbow soreness. With that diagnosis, several troubling potential injuries could have emerged. However, testing and a throwing session on Monday showed no structural damage in the elbow. That is certainly the best-case scenario for both the Twins and their ace as they look to hunt down the Guardians and Tigers.

Just a few weeks into the season, there’s plenty of time for the Twins to get back on track. New manager Derek Shelton’s squad could use more talent, as the bullpen and starting rotation have taken blows due to injury. With Ryan on track to pitch Saturday, this weekend’s series in Cleveland could become a key one. A sweep could push the Twins to the top of the standings, or further into the basement. So far, Ryan has once again held up his end of the bargain, pitching at least five innings in all of his starts except two. Can he spin another gem on Saturday? If so, Minnesota’s ascent back to the top of the AL Central could be a swift one.