Twins ace Joe Ryan will undergo further testing after an MRI revealed inflammation in his lower back, a setback for the 2025 All-Star right-hander who had been positioned as the team's top starter for the upcoming season. Ryan, who recorded 194 strikeouts in 30 starts last year, scratched his spring training appearance Saturday due to back tightness and was examined Sunday. The injury comes as a significant blow after Pablo Lopez's season-ending Tommy John surgery, which vaulted Ryan into the rotation's top spot.

Ryan, who avoided arbitration with a $6.2 million contract, now faces an uncertain timeline that could impact the Twins' pitching depth. The team will likely rely on a mix of young arms like Bailey Ober, Simeon Woods Richardson, and Zebby Matthews to fill the void if Ryan's recovery extends beyond spring training. Taj Bradley and Mick Abel, acquired in July trades, also remain in the rotation mix as the Twins navigate a crowded pitching staff.