About this episode
Minnesota Twins fans breathe easier as Joe Ryan makes a confident 2026 spring training debut, easing worries about his timeline and solidifying his role atop the rotation. With Bailey Ober returning and Pablo Lopez’s status uncertain, C.J. Baumgartner breaks down the ripple effects on the Twins’ pitching depth and the pressing need for stability amid a wave of promising, but untested, young arms.
The episode dives into Taylor Rodgers’ transformation, drawing parallels to LaTroy Hawkins’ late-career resurgence and exploring how veteran mentorship might shape key bullpen roles. Plus, C.J. Baumgartner assesses the Locked On MLB Top 100, pondering what might have been if the Twins landed Zack Wheeler or Hunter Greene, and questions whether Minnesota should explore Jackson Chourio-style extensions with their own rising stars. Insightful as always, this breakdown examines the big questions facing the Twins as Opening Day approaches and the roster takes shape.
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00:00 - Joe Ryan’s Spring Debut
Kicks off with analysis of Joe Ryan’s 2026 spring training debut, injury update, pitch velocity, and why there’s no major concern for his readiness by Opening Day.
12:26 - Twins Bullpen & Taylor Rodgers
Deep dive into the Twins’ bullpen, specifically Taylor Rodgers’ late-career reinvention, his comparison to LaTroy Hawkins, and the influence of Hawkins as bullpen coach.
29:02 - MLB Top 100, Twins Connections
Breakdown of the Locked On MLB Top 100 players list (spots 50–41), with a focus on Twins-adjacent storylines, “what if” scenarios, and butterfly effects from past free agency and draft decisions.
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