About this episode
Minnesota Twins fans brace for uncertainty as pitchers and catchers report to spring training. Will this season mark a true reset or a slide into deeper turmoil? C.J. Baumgartner tackles the off-kilter vibes surrounding the Twins, dissecting ownership shakeups, front-office turnover, and looming questions about stars Joe Ryan, Pablo López, and Byron Buxton. Payroll cuts and last season’s trade deadline hangover set the stage for a tense 2026 campaign, making every roster move critical. Key highlights include the Twins’ reunion with reliever Liam Hendriks and the addition of Julian Merryweather—are these minor league deals savvy depth moves or mere nostalgia plays? Plus, C.J. Baumgartner breaks down Major League Baseball’s rollout of the Automated Balls and Strikes (ABS) system and how it could change game strategy. Will Derek Shelton’s leadership steady the club, or are fans right to fear another midseason sell-off? Don’t miss this candid look at where the Minnesota Twins stand entering a pivotal year. 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 Offseason Turmoil & Team VibesC.J. Baumgartner analyzes why the vibes feel off as Twins pitchers and catchers report to spring training, recapping ownership changes, trade rumors, payroll concerns, and quotes from Joe Ryan reflecting uncertainty. 14:21 Twins Bullpen Reunion MovesDiscussion of the Twins bringing back relievers Liam Hendriks and Julian Merryweather on minor league deals, their career arcs, injury concerns, and what these signings signal about Minnesota’s roster strategy. 28:20 Automated Balls & Strikes ArriveIn-depth look at the introduction of ABS (Automated Balls and Strikes) in MLB for 2026, how it works, its impact on gameplay, potential for teams gaming the system, and final thoughts on its implementation. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!Turbo TaxFor 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. IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuelToday's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. The Winter Games are on. And there’s no better way to follow them than with a bet on FanDuel. FanDuel - Play your game. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions app
