The news hit Twins Territory like a gut punch on Friday. Pablo López, Minnesota’s Opening Day starter for three straight seasons, will undergo Tommy John surgery after a UCL tear was confirmed during the team’s first full-squad spring workout. Suddenly, the unquestioned ace of their rotation will miss the entire 2026 season.
For a Twins team that went 70-92 last year and relies on its pitching to carry a limited offense, this is devastating. The free-agent market is still open, and Minnesota needs to act immediately. Here are three pitchers who could stabilize the rotation and keep the team competitive in a weak AL Central.
1. Lucas Giolito — The Ace Minnesota Needs
2025 Highlights:
- ERA (final 18 starts): 2.51
- Innings pitched: 145
- Durable, high-efficiency innings
Lucas Giolito remains unsigned despite a 10-4 record with a 3.41 ERA in 145 innings for the Red Sox in 2025. After adjusting his arm angle midseason, he posted a 2.51 ERA over his final 18 starts — full ace-level performance.
While the Yankees and Red Sox were rumored to be coveting this services, Giolito fits Minnesota’s immediate need: durability, innings-eating, and ace-level quality. He’s had interest from the Padres, Mets, and Phillies, but no deal has closed yet. A one-year, incentive-heavy contract could make him attainable. With López out, Giolito moves from “interesting” to “urgent” for the Twins.
2. Zack Littell — Durable, Efficient, and Familiar
2025 Highlights:
- ERA: 3.81 over 186.2 IP
- Walk rate: elite (tied with Tarik Skubal for lowest among qualified starters)
- Two-year value contract, strong durability
Zack Littell’s journey has come full circle. Once a Twin, he became a starter with the Rays, posting a 3.81 ERA across 186.2 innings in 32 starts last season. He’s quietly one of baseball’s most reliable arms.
Littell doesn’t rely on overpowering stuff; he thrives on command. His walk rate over the past two seasons ranks among the lowest for qualified starters, making him ideal for a young lineup. A two-year deal around $12 million per year gives Minnesota a mid-rotation stabilizer who can also serve as a trade asset if the season derails.
3. Tyler Anderson — Veteran Presence and Built-In Connection
2025 Highlights:
- ERA: 4.56
- Innings: durable starter when healthy
- Experience: can mentor and stabilize younger arms
Tyler Anderson had a rough 2025, but at 36, he still offers value. Drafted by the Twins in 2008, he’s expressed a desire to continue pitching, and his veteran presence is invaluable for a rotation now filled with younger arms.
Anderson provides innings stability, allowing Zebby Matthews and Mick Abel to develop without pressure. He’s not a season-saver, but he’s affordable, durable, and experienced. A one-year deal around $7–8 million is a calculated, low-risk addition.
Minnesota’s Rotation Right Now
|
Slot |
Pitcher |
| Ace |
Joe Ryan |
|
No. 2 |
Bailey Ober |
| No. 3 |
Taj Bradley |
|
No. 4 |
Simeon Woods Richardson |
| No. 5 |
Zebby Matthews / Mick Abel |
The drop-off after Ryan is real. With López out, Minnesota’s rotation goes from “competitive” to “questionable.” These free-agent pickups won’t make the Twins World Series favorites, but they can provide stability, innings, and mentorship — keeping the team in the AL Central race while the young arms develop.
The clock is ticking. Minnesota needs to move fast.
