DFA’d Twins Infielder Ryan Fitzgerald Could Be a Valuable Depth Addition for MLB Teams in 2026

The Minnesota Twins made a roster move on Friday, designating infielder Ryan Fitzgerald for assignment to clear space on the 40-man roster for newly acquired first baseman Eric Wagaman. Wagaman arrived in a trade with the Miami Marlins in exchange for left-handed pitching prospect Kade Bragg, giving Minnesota more flexibility at the top of the lineup. While Fitzgerald’s release makes sense for the Twins, who boast a deep pool of infield talent at both the major and minor league levels, there’s a strong argument that another MLB team could benefit from taking a chance on the 31-year-old veteran.

Fitzgerald’s MLB Debut and Performance

Fitzgerald made his Major League debut with the Twins in 2025, finishing the season with a modest slash line of .196/.302/.457 (106 OPS+) over 53 plate appearances, along with four home runs and nine RBIs. While those numbers don’t scream star potential, they reflect a small sample size and the challenges of transitioning from Triple-A to the majors.

One highlight of his brief MLB stint came in September 2025, when Fitzgerald’s home run narrowed a Yankees’ lead to three runs, showcasing his ability to deliver in key moments despite limited opportunities. That kind of situational hitting could make him an appealing bench option for teams seeking infield depth and affordable, versatile players.

Why Fitzgerald Deserves Another Chance

No team is likely to add Fitzgerald with the expectation of starting him regularly, but his value lies in his ability to provide reliable depth across multiple infield positions. For teams struggling with injuries, lack of bench options, or a thin roster beyond their starters, Fitzgerald could be a low-risk, high-reward addition.

Given his age and experience, a minor league deal seems the most probable route for Fitzgerald this offseason. He could also consider playing overseas in Japan, Korea, or Mexico if opportunities in MLB are limited. However, for teams focused on building a flexible roster without committing major payroll, Fitzgerald represents a strong option for spring training and a potential 26-man roster spot as a backup infielder.

Fitzgerald’s Journey to the Majors

Fitzgerald’s path to the big leagues has been long and unconventional. An undrafted player out of Creighton in 2016, he spent a year in independent baseball before entering the Boston Red Sox minor league system, where he played for six seasons. He then spent one season in the Kansas City Royals organization before signing a minor league deal with the Twins last offseason.

Across seven minor league seasons, Fitzgerald posted solid numbers: .258/.338/.432 with 76 home runs and 378 RBIs over 708 games. These stats reflect consistency and durability, two traits that can make a journeyman infielder a valuable asset on a major league bench.

Strong 2025 Triple-A Performance

The main reason Fitzgerald earned his MLB opportunity last season was his performance in Triple-A St. Paul. Over 59 games with the Saints in 2025, he slashed .277/.367/.469, hitting seven home runs, driving in 31 RBIs, scoring 30 runs, and stealing five bases across 245 plate appearances. This performance demonstrated that Fitzgerald can contribute at a high level and adapt when given the right opportunities.

What Teams Should Consider

For teams with infield depth concerns, Fitzgerald could be an ideal signing for multiple reasons:

Versatility: He can play multiple infield positions, providing coverage for injury-prone starters.

Experience: With MLB exposure and extensive minor league experience, he can contribute immediately in a backup role.

Affordability: As a depth player, Fitzgerald won’t demand a major contract, making him a low-risk addition.

Potential Upside: His Triple-A numbers suggest he could outperform expectations if given consistent playing time.

Teams like the Chicago White Sox, Oakland Athletics, or Cleveland Guardians, who have historically valued flexible, cost-effective depth pieces, may find Fitzgerald especially appealing heading into the 2026 season.

Fitzgerald’s Next Steps

If Fitzgerald aims to return to MLB, securing a minor league deal with spring training invitations will be crucial. A strong performance in spring training could earn him a spot on a 26-man roster, particularly for teams that experience in-season injuries or need a left-handed bat off the bench.

While his tenure with the Twins has ended, Fitzgerald’s journey is far from over. His career illustrates the perseverance required to reach the majors as an undrafted player and his ability to seize opportunities when they arise.

Conclusion

The Minnesota Twins’ decision to designate Ryan Fitzgerald for assignment reflects the depth of their infield talent but also highlights an opportunity for other MLB teams to acquire a seasoned, versatile infielder. Fitzgerald’s experience, minor league track record, and brief but promising MLB performance make him an appealing candidate for teams seeking affordable infield depth in 2026.

For Fitzgerald, the offseason presents a chance to prove himself once again, whether in a major league camp or overseas. For teams willing to take a flier on a seasoned journeyman, he could provide the reliability and versatility needed to strengthen a bench or provide injury insurance.

With his work ethic and proven minor league success, Fitzgerald is poised to continue his professional baseball career, proving that determination and adaptability can carve out a valuable role in Major League Baseball.