Projecting the Twins’ 2026 Opening Day Lineup as Spring Training Nears

With New Year’s Day approaching, it’s a reminder that 2026 spring training is closer than it feels — roughly six or seven weeks away, as the kids say. That may sound distant, but in baseball terms, it’s right around the corner.

The offseason often feels endless, especially in Minnesota, where winter weather makes baseball seem impossibly far away. The Twins’ season ended before October, meaning it has been nearly two full months since fans last watched meaningful baseball at Target Field. And so far, the organization has taken a relatively quiet approach this winter.

Minnesota has added just one free agent on a major-league contract, made a brief appearance in the Rule 5 Draft by selecting catcher Daniel Susac (whom they promptly traded), and signed a handful of pitchers to minor-league deals. While Derek Falvey has a track record of making meaningful moves deep into the offseason — and even into spring training — the calendar will begin to move quickly once January arrives.

Within days, the Fort Myers complex will start to fill up. Minor leaguers will report first, followed by major leaguers ramping up throwing programs and workouts. Twins Fest is only a month away, and with the World Baseball Classic pushing the schedule forward, spring training begins in mid-February.

So if the season were to start today, what might the Twins’ roster look like?

Catchers (2): Ryan Jeffers, Alex Jackson

Ryan Jeffers remains a foundational piece behind the plate. While there were trade rumors surrounding him at the deadline and again earlier this offseason, moving him would create more problems than it solves. Jeffers is not an elite defender, but he works well with pitchers, manages games competently, and spent much of 2025 hitting near the top of the lineup.

Alex Jackson, acquired in November for Payton Eeles, brings veteran defense and occasional power. The former sixth overall pick hasn’t hit consistently at the big-league level, but his glove has kept him employed across multiple organizations.

Catcher Depth

The Twins have clearly prioritized catching depth this offseason. Johnny Pereda and Mickey Gasper remain on the 40-man roster, while Noah Cardenas and Patrick Winkel provide strong defensive insurance at Triple-A. The organization also added several intriguing high-ceiling prospects, including Eduardo Tait, Enrique Jimenez, and Miguel Caraballo, all of whom bring upside but require significant development.

Among the more interesting names is Khadim Diaw, a gifted athlete capable of playing both catcher and center field. Overall, Minnesota is well-positioned at the position, even if the big-league tandem remains defense-first.

Infielders (7): Josh Bell, Kody Clemens, Luke Keaschall, Brooks Lee, Royce Lewis, Ryan Kreidler, Edouard Julien

The Twins added Josh Bell to anchor the middle of the lineup, with time expected at first base and DH. Bell’s presence provides flexibility, allowing Kody Clemens and potentially Luke Keaschall to rotate through first base depending on matchups.

Keaschall, coming off an injury-plagued but promising rookie season, should be kept on the field as much as possible. Edouard Julien, out of options, will need to stick on the roster, while Ryan Kreidler’s lack of options also likely secures his spot — though Ryan Fitzgerald may ultimately be the better long-term utility defender.

Brooks Lee and Royce Lewis struggled at times in 2025, but both remain immensely talented. The Twins would be wise to play them regularly and trust that their pedigree and tools translate into production.

Infield Depth

Kaelen Culpepper, the Twins’ top pick in the 2024 draft, is the infielder to watch early in 2026. After a strong showing across High-A and Double-A, he could force his way into the conversation sooner than expected. Aaron Sabato offers power depth, while Ben Ross provides defensive versatility.

Further down the system, prospects like Kyle DeBarge, Brandon Winokur, and Marek Houston show promise but likely remain a year or more away.

Outfielders (5): Byron Buxton, Matt Wallner, Trevor Larnach, Austin Martin, James Outman

Byron Buxton is the lone unquestioned starter, coming off a season where he stayed relatively healthy and earned his first Silver Slugger Award. Matt Wallner remains a key power bat despite contact issues, and his arm strength makes him valuable defensively.

Trevor Larnach’s 2025 was underwhelming, but tendering him a contract was the correct decision. He remains a solid contributor who can produce 20 home runs and still carries trade value.

Austin Martin impressed late in the season with his on-base ability, speed, and defense, while James Outman — out of options — likely earns a roster spot despite past contact issues.

Outfield Depth

The outfield pipeline is loaded. Walker Jenkins remains the crown jewel after reaching Triple-A late in 2025. Emmanuel Rodriguez, Gabriel Gonzalez, Alan Roden, and Hendry Mendez all bring upside, while Kyler Fedko and Kala’i Rosario offer power-speed combinations nearing MLB readiness.