Minnesota Twins reportedly will take unexpected direction in 2026

The Minnesota Twins were one of the biggest sellers at the 2025 trade deadline.

That selloff was expected to continue into the offseason. Pitchers Joe Ryan and Pablo Lopez have been the subject of trade rumors, with the Mets reportedly targeting Ryan as part of the overhaul of their pitching staff. Trade rumors even swirled around outfielder Byron Buxton, with Dan Hayes of The Athletic reporting in November that Buxton might consider waiving his no-trade clause if either pitcher is traded.

Instead, those rumors might be much ado about nothing. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reported that not only are the Twins planning on holding on to Buxton, Lopez and Ryan, but they expect to contend for the postseason in 2026.

Minnesota Twins looking for rapid rebuild

While the Twins were expected to sell at the deadline, the expectation was that impending free agents would be on the move. Instead, the Twins sent virtually anything of value away at the deadline, decimating the bullpen while sending infielder Carlos Correa back to Houston. The trades were clearly a salary dump, with the Twins expected to continue to shed salary in the offseason.

There were signs that the Twins did not expect to enter into a long-term rebuilding project. Most of the trades included players who were close to being major league-ready. Top prospects, such as outfielder Walker Jenkins and shortstop Kaelen Culpepper, are expected to make their major league debuts next season. The Twins could put a surprisingly competitive team on the diamond in 2026 with the right moves in free agency.

Any hopes of contending in 2026 will depend on how well, and quickly, the Twins' young roster acclimates to the majors. Keeping Buxton, Lopez and Ryan is a good start, but there is plenty more work to be done. Otherwise, the trade rumors surrounding that trio will get louder as the 2026 trade deadline approaches.