Twins Prospect Ryan Daniels Retires After Struggling With Hip Injuries

In a surprising and somber announcement for the Minnesota Twins organization and fans of collegiate baseball, Ryan Daniels, the Twins’ 11th-round pick in the 2025 MLB Draft, has retired from professional baseball. The news was first reported by @Jamie Cameron of Limestone Pipeline, and it immediately resonated across the baseball community, as Daniels had been a standout talent whose trajectory suggested a promising professional career.

The decision comes after a history of hip injuries and surgeries that plagued Daniels throughout his college and brief professional career. Despite his undeniable talent and work ethic, it seems that the physical toll of the sport has made continuing at the professional level untenable.

A Rising Star from Connecticut

Before his professional journey, Daniels made a name for himself at St. Paul Catholic High School in Bristol, Connecticut. Over four years, he became a two-time All-State player, showcasing both offensive and defensive versatility that drew attention from college programs nationwide. His commitment and success on the field earned him a scholarship to the University of Connecticut (UConn), where he would go on to further cement his reputation as a rising baseball star.

Daniels’ transition from Bristol to Storrs—a 44-mile daily commute—was emblematic of his dedication. While many young athletes falter under the rigors of balancing academics and athletics, Daniels thrived, quickly making his mark in the Huskies’ lineup.

College Career: Triumphs and Challenges

Daniels had an immediate impact as a freshman in 2023, appearing in 42 games with 25 starts. He slashed .273/.401/.409 with eight doubles, two triples, a home run, and a remarkable 16 stolen bases in 17 attempts. His speed and on-base ability quickly marked him as a player to watch, and scouts took note of his combination of contact hitting, power potential, and athleticism.

However, his sophomore season in 2024 was cut short due to a season-ending hip injury, limiting him to just 20 games. The surgery required to repair the hip was significant, and questions arose about whether he could return to his pre-injury form.

Daniels’ response to adversity was nothing short of inspiring. In 2025, he returned to the field at full strength, delivering what many considered a breakout season. He started 53 of the 54 games he played and posted a slash line of .365/.476/.744, with 15 doubles, four triples, 18 home runs, and 75 RBI. His performance earned him BIG EAST Player of the Year honors, a first-team all-conference selection, and recognition as a second-team All-American by multiple outlets.

Daniels’ 2025 season was a testament not only to his skill but also to his resilience and work ethic. He proved that he could overcome physical setbacks and dominate at a high level, solidifying his status as one of the top prospects from the UConn program.

Drafted by the Twins: A Professional Opportunity

In July 2025, the Minnesota Twins selected Daniels in the 11th round of the MLB Draft, offering him a signing bonus of $150,000. For a player coming off a decorated college season, this was an opportunity to take the next step in a career that many scouts projected as having major league potential.

Daniels was assigned to the Fort Myers Mighty Mussels, the Twins’ High-A affiliate, where expectations were high for his first professional season. However, his time in the minor leagues was immediately marred by another hip injury, limiting him to just two games before being placed on the Injured List.

Retirement: A Difficult Decision

By mid-December 2025, Daniels had made the difficult decision to retire from professional baseball. Sources close to the player suggest that the choice was driven by a combination of recurring hip issues and the desire to prioritize long-term health over continuing in a sport that demands elite physical performance.

While many fans and analysts were hopeful that Daniels could recover and continue his professional career, the reality of repeated hip injuries—a critical concern for a player reliant on speed, agility, and lower-body strength—made retirement a pragmatic, though emotionally challenging, choice.

Legacy and Impact

Although his professional career was brief, Daniels leaves behind a remarkable legacy of perseverance, talent, and resilience. From high school standout to college star, he consistently demonstrated a combination of skill and determination that earned him accolades and the respect of teammates, coaches, and scouts alike.

At UConn, he was not just a player; he was a leader on and off the field, inspiring younger teammates and exemplifying the virtues of hard work and dedication. His story serves as a reminder of how injuries can impact even the most promising careers, highlighting the importance of athlete health and safety in baseball development programs.

A Message of Support

Fans and teammates have expressed an outpouring of support and admiration for Daniels’ decision. While leaving the game prematurely is never easy, many acknowledge the courage it takes to prioritize health and future well-being over the pursuit of professional dreams.

Social media has been flooded with messages:

• “Ryan Daniels was a warrior on the field. Wishing him the best in the next chapter of his life!”

• “Incredible talent, incredible heart. You’ve inspired a generation of Huskies.”

• “Sometimes the hardest decisions are the right ones. Good luck, Ryan!”

Former UConn coaches have also weighed in, praising Daniels’ grit, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout his collegiate career.

What’s Next for Ryan Daniels?

While Daniels’ playing days may be over, his story is far from finished. With his intelligence, discipline, and leadership experience, he has the tools to pursue careers in coaching, sports administration, or other fields related to baseball. Many former athletes with similar journeys have found success mentoring young players, providing insight into the challenges of balancing performance, health, and longevity in professional sports.

Additionally, Daniels’ resilience and adaptability—qualities demonstrated by overcoming multiple hip surgeries and returning to elite performance in 2025—will serve him well in any future endeavor. His journey can continue to inspire young athletes navigating injuries, setbacks, and life transitions.

A Final Word

Ryan Daniels’ retirement is a poignant reminder of the fragility of athletic careers and the strength required to confront reality with dignity. Though his professional playing days have ended sooner than expected, his impact on high school, college, and professional baseball will not be forgotten.

From his early days in Bristol, Connecticut, to his star-making performances at UConn, Daniels embodied the values of perseverance, resilience, and passion that define the sport. While the Twins and fans may have hoped to see him flourish at the professional level, his decision reflects a mature understanding of his priorities and health, setting an example for athletes everywhere.

As Daniels embarks on the next chapter, the baseball world will watch with admiration and respect, knowing that his legacy of talent and determination transcends statistics and game days.

Best wishes, Ryan Daniels, for a future full of success, health, and happiness beyond the diamond.