About this episode
Joe Ryan steps into the Minnesota Twins ace role with Pablo López sidelined. Can Ryan anchor the rotation and avoid his notorious second-half slump? C.J. Baumgartner highlights Ryan’s statistical strengths, his path to improvement, and the challenge of staying healthy through a full MLB season. The conversation explores Ryan’s contract situation and how trade rumors could shape the Twins’ pitching future as 2026 approaches.
Andrew Chafin emerges as the ultimate bullpen vibes guy, promising leadership and good clubhouse energy, while Brooks Lee faces scrutiny as the projected opening day shortstop. Is Lee’s range and bat enough, or will prospects like Kaelen Culpepper and Merrick Huston force a shift in the infield? Key topics include Minnesota’s bullpen depth, left-right reliever balance, shortstop succession plans, and the ongoing quest for stability across the diamond. Don’t miss this breakdown of the Twins’ evolving roster and spring training storylines.
Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…
? https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-twins/
Locked On MLB League-Wide: Every Team, Prospects & More
? https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/mlb/
00:00 — Joe Ryan Named Twins Starter
Discussion of Joe Ryan taking over as opening spring training starter, analysis on the impact of Pablo Lopez's absence and Ryan's ace potential.
13:22 — Andrew Chafin Bullpen Role
Deep dive on Andrew Chafin's signing, his clubhouse presence, quotes, and potential to fill a key bullpen “vibes” role for the Minnesota Twins.
22:22 — Twins Shortstop Depth
Evaluation of Brooks Lee as the primary shortstop, depth chart options, prospects likely to challenge for the role, and overall defensive concerns.
Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!
Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.
Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast
FanDuel
Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.
Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STE
