Twins Avoid Arbitration With Four Key Players Ahead of 2026 Season

The Minnesota Twins locked in cost certainty for the upcoming season on Thursday, reportedly reaching arbitration agreements with Bailey Ober, Ryan Jeffers, Royce Lewis, and Trevor Larnach before the league’s deadline.

According to KSTP’s Darren Wolfson, the deals allow Minnesota to avoid arbitration hearings with four core contributors as the organization continues shaping its roster for 2026.

Thursday marked the final day for teams and arbitration-eligible players to exchange figures, and the Twins managed to settle with all four without dispute.

Bailey Ober Agrees to $5.2 Million Deal

Right-hander Bailey Ober agreed to a one-year, $5.2 million contract for the 2026 season, a raise from the $3.5 million he earned in 2025.

The 30-year-old starter has one year of team control remaining and remains part of the Twins’ rotation plans despite a difficult season. In 2025, Ober posted a 6–9 record with a 5.10 ERA, striking out 120 batters while walking just 31.

While the results were inconsistent, Ober’s durability and strike-throwing ability continue to give him value as a mid-rotation option.

Ryan Jeffers’ Salary Jumps as Free Agency Looms

Catcher Ryan Jeffers will earn $6.7 million in 2026, up from $4.5 million last season. The agreement comes at a pivotal moment for both player and team.

Jeffers, 28, is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2026 season if a long-term extension is not reached. His rising salary and contract status have already generated trade speculation.

Earlier this week, reports indicated that the Philadelphia Phillies could explore a trade for Jeffers if they fail to re-sign J.T. Realmuto.

Jeffers, a second-round pick in 2018, hit .266 with nine home runs and 47 RBIs across 464 plate appearances in 2025, continuing to establish himself as a reliable offensive catcher.

Royce Lewis Gets Raise Amid Continued Injury Concerns

Infielder Royce Lewis agreed to a $2.85 million salary for 2026, up from $1.625 million in 2025. The Twins retain two additional years of team control beyond the upcoming season.

Still just 26, Lewis remains one of the organization’s most talented — and most frustrating — players due to ongoing durability issues. In 2025, injuries limited him to 106 games, the most he has played in any single season at the major league level.

Lewis slashed .237/.283/.388, hitting 13 home runs and driving in 52 runs. The Twins continue to bet on his upside, hoping improved health will allow his production to match his pedigree.

Trevor Larnach Secures $4.475 Million for 2026

Outfielder Trevor Larnach settled on a $4.475 million contract, more than doubling his $2.1 million salary from 2025. The 28-year-old remains under team control through the 2027 season.

A first-round pick in 2018, Larnach enjoyed a solid 2025 campaign, batting .250 with 17 home runs while providing left-handed power in the Twins’ lineup.

His steady production and positional flexibility continue to make him a valuable piece of Minnesota’s outfield mix.

Told #MNTwins have a 2026 contract agreed to with SP Bailey Ober at $5.2M. Today is the deadline for players and teams to exchange figures in arbitration. — Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) January 8, 2026 Ober has reportedly agreed to a deal worth $5.2 million for the 2026 season. That is up from the $3.5 million he earned in 2025.

The Twins have one year left of team control on the 30-year-old righty.

Ober was 6-9 with a 5.10 ERA, 120 strikeouts, and 31 walks in 2025. Jeffers sees his salary jump from $4.5 million in 2025 to $6.7 million for this upcoming season. The 28-year-old will become an unrestricted free agent next winter if the team can’t reach a long-term deal before the end of the season.

It was reported earlier this week that the Philadelphia Phillies could have interest in trading for Jeffers if they are unable to re-sign J.T. Realmuto.

Twins Gain Stability as Arbitration Deadline Passes

By reaching agreements with all four players, the Twins avoided the uncertainty and potential strain of arbitration hearings while gaining clarity on payroll heading into 2026.

With Ober anchoring rotation depth, Jeffers facing a pivotal contract year, Lewis still searching for a healthy breakout, and Larnach providing reliable power, Minnesota preserved flexibility while keeping several core contributors in place.

The focus now shifts to the remainder of the offseason — and whether the Twins pursue extensions, trades, or roster upgrades before Opening Day.