Locked On Twins - Daily Podcast On The Minnesota Twins

Minnesota Twins shake up their spring training roster as Alan Roden surges ahead in the battle for left field. Will Roden's hot streak and high-quality at-bats cement him as Opening Day starter, or could Emmanuel Rodriguez and Trevor Larnach still make a case? Top prospect Walker Jenkins faces a setback with a hamstring strain, pushing his big league debut timeline—does this open the door for other outfielders or change the Twins’ long-term development plan?

C.J. Baumgartner breaks down the latest roster moves, including minor league camp assignments and analyzes emerging talent like James Outman and Gabby Gonzalez. Spotlighting Byron Buxton’s MLB The Show Top 100 ranking, the conversation dives into Joe Ryan’s standing among elite pitchers and debates his comparison with Kevin Gausman and Brandon Woodruff. Is Joe Ryan undervalued due to Minnesota’s struggles? Get the inside scoop on spring performances, prospect hype, and predictions for the Twins’ Opening Day lineup.

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Has Bailey Ober become the Minnesota Twins’ forgotten key to pitching stability? As the Twins gear up for spring training, Bailey Ober’s delayed debut raises questions about his overlooked significance behind top arms like Pablo López and Joe Ryan. C.J. Baumgartner breaks down Ober’s recent struggles, injury setbacks, and what the Twins need from him to anchor a rotation filled with unproven youth.

The spotlight then shifts to MLB.com's updated Top 30 Twins Prospects list, highlighting rising stars Walker Jenkins, Kaelen Culpepper, and Connor Prielipp. Are these future talents set to redefine Minnesota’s core? Plus, C.J. Baumgartner covers the latest on the Locked On MLB Top 100, shining a light on big names like Aroldis Chapman and Jose Altuve, while tracking former and current Twins’ standings. Get all the insider analysis and pressing questions shaping Minnesota’s path forward.

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00:00 — Bailey Ober: Forgotten Twin

C.J. Baumgartner discusses Bailey Ober’s spring training debut, his struggles, injury updates, and his role in the Minnesota Twins rotation in 2026.

12:41 — Twins Top 30 Prospects Breakdown

Deep dive into the newly released MLB.com Minnesota Twins Top 30 Prospects list, highlights, risers, outlooks for top picks, and overall impressions.

23:50 — Locked On MLB Top 100: 90–81

C.J. Baumgartner recaps the Locked On MLB Network’s Top 100 Players list, focusing on spots 90 through 81 and key Twins/AL Central connections.

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This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

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Minnesota Twins stars crack the Locked On Top 100 Players list, but is Byron Buxton being underrated due to his own team’s struggles? C.J. Baumgartner argues Buxton is a top 15 player in MLB, spotlighting his elite combination of speed, defense, and power while dissecting why being on the Twins affects his national standing. Joe Ryan’s rising stock and Pablo López’s injury-plagued year also get thorough breakdowns—including what López’s absence has meant for Minnesota’s playoff hopes.

Get fresh analysis of Jhoan Duran and Brent Rooker’s surprising rankings and relive why Twins fans “shouldn’t be mad” about lost prospects. As Buxton prepares to suit up for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, C.J. Baumgartner takes a deeper look at his leadership growth and what performing on the international stage could mean for his legacy. Stay tuned as Locked On Twins ranks the best in baseball and previews key storylines ahead of Opening Day.

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00:00 Twins in Top 100 Rankings

C.J. Baumgartner discusses Byron Buxton, Joe Ryan, and Pablo Lopez’s placements on the Locked On Top 100 Players list, arguing Buxton is underrated due to team performance and recapping the recent accomplishments and outlook for each player.

11:21 Top 100 Breakdown: Players 100–91

C.J. Baumgartner breaks down Locked On’s Top 100 MLB Players list from 100 through 91, gives opinions on ex-Twins Brent Rooker and Joan Duran’s placements, and analyzes the impact of these player movements on the Twins and league.

22:22 Byron Buxton Joins Team USA

C.J. Baumgartner dives into Byron Buxton’s opportunity with Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, what it means for his career, the preparation process, and how this could help elevate his national profile.

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This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit https://mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

Turbo Tax

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

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Minnesota Twins’ spring training brings breakout buzz as Mick Abel flashes ace potential and Alan Roden leads the team in hits, igniting the left field competition. Can Matt Wallner and Trevor Larnach fend off challengers like Emmanuel Rodriguez with make-or-break performances while Marco Raya’s bullpen struggles threaten his Opening Day outlook?

C.J. Baumgartner analyzes Joe Ryan’s injury update and its World Baseball Classic impact, discusses Walker Jenkins’ hamstring strain and the implications for prospect hype, and explains how Josh Bell’s arrival elevates the designated hitter floor for the Twins. Key topics include evolving outfield battles, Byron Buxton’s role at DH, and whether the Twins are poised for their best offensive production since Nelson Cruz anchored the lineup. Will young guns and new additions propel Minnesota back to contending form?

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00:00 — Twins Spring Training Stock Watch

Opening segment featuring "stock up, stock down" analysis on Twins players. Focus on Mick Abel, Alan Roden, Marco Raya, and Matt Wallner.

12:48 — Injury Updates: Ryan & Jenkins

Injury updates on Joe Ryan (Team USA/WBC, back inflammation) and Walker Jenkins (hamstring strain, impact on spring training).

26:18 — Twins DH Outlook

Full breakdown of the designated hitter situation for the Twins, including Josh Bell, Victor Caratini, Trevor Larnach, Matt Wallner, and Byron Buxton.

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This episode of is brought to you by MLB The Show 26. Visit mlbthe.show/lockedon and use code “LOCKEDON” to unlock a pack for use in Diamond Dynasty. Pre-Order now, Available March 17th on PlayStation 5, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. RATED E FOR EVERYONE.

Turbo Tax

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Gametime

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FanDuel

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Minnesota Twins’ starting rotation faces a crisis as injuries to Pablo Lopez and Joe Ryan test the team's depth long before Opening Day. Should the Twins urgently pursue Zack Littell or Lucas Giolito to stabilize their pitching staff and protect top prospects? C.J. Baumgartner examines the dwindling options, explores the impact of recent setbacks, and weighs the pros and cons of free agent solutions in a season where stability could be the difference-maker.

Royce Lewis escapes a major injury scare, but will this be the year he cements his status as a franchise cornerstone alongside Byron Buxton? C.J. Baumgartner breaks down Lewis’s pivotal season and why the prospect pipeline puts extra pressure on his development. The episode also assesses the Twins’ bullpen hierarchy, spotlighting Taylor Rodgers, Caleb Thielbar, and rising arms, while questioning if the current roster can support a true playoff push.

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00:00 Starting Pitching Depth Crisis

Minnesota Twins’ starting rotation is already being stretched thin due to injuries to Pablo López, Joe Ryan, and David Festa. C.J. Baumgartner explains why the team must add a starter now, highlights free agent options Lucas Giolito and Zack Littell, and presents his recommendation.

15:06 Royce Lewis Health & Breakout Hopes

Discussion shifts to Royce Lewis, his recent injury scare (and encouraging MRI), why this is a do-or-die year for him to earn “franchise cornerstone” status, and how continued durability and experience are key for both Lewis and the Twins’ future.

26:10 Twins Bullpen Breakdown

Full assessment of the current bullpen hierarchy and key relievers. C.J. Baumgartner ranks confidence in roles, discusses “battle of mid” depth, and examines whether any reliever can establish themselves—plus what went wrong with resource allocation after last deadline.

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Gametime

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Minnesota Twins veterans praise Derek Shelton’s refreshing communication style as he steps in as manager. Is Shelton’s upbeat personality exactly what the Twins need to outperform expectations after Rocco Baldelli’s tenure? Byron Buxton, Ryan Jeffers, and Royce Lewis highlight Shelton’s direct approach, while comparisons to Baldelli reveal striking similarities—and critical differences—in game management and defensive discipline.

C.J. Baumgartner spotlights the Twins' formidable starting pitching depth, dissecting key roles for Joe Ryan, Taj Bradley, Bailey Ober, Simeon Woods Richardson, and top prospects like Mick Abel and Kendry Rojas. Taj Bradley’s decision to skip the World Baseball Classic for Team Mexico opens a door in the rotation, especially with Pablo Lopez sidelined. Can the Twins recreate ace-level production and keep their postseason hopes alive? Stay tuned for a thorough breakdown of pitching strategy and roster outlook heading into MLB Opening Day.

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00:00 Derek Shelton vs. Rocco Baldelli

Discussion of Derek Shelton’s communication style, personality differences, and early feedback from Twins veterans compared to Rocco Baldelli.

13:38 Taj Bradley WBC Decision

Analysis of Taj Bradley opting out of the World Baseball Classic, implications for his development, and opening day roster chances.

21:18 Twins Starting Pitching Depth

Deep dive into the Twins’ starting pitcher depth, prospects, strengths, and how the rotation shapes up for the upcoming season.

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

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Predicting shakeups in the Minnesota Twins 2026 Opening Day roster projections with bold moves in the pitching staff. Would a new-look rotation featuring Joe Ryan, Bailey Ober, Simeon Woods Richardson, Mick Abel, and Taj Bradley spark a playoff push? C.J. Baumgartner breaks down key position battles, weighing the high-upside arms like Kendry Rojas, Zebby Matthews, and David Festa against veteran additions Taj Bradley and Andrew Chafin.

The conversation highlights bullpen surprises including Taylor Rogers, Justin Topa, and the return of Liam Hendriks, as well as the ongoing catching conundrum with Ryan Jeffers and Victor Caratini. Catch insights on Brooks Lee, Royce Lewis, Matt Wallner, and Byron Buxton as C.J. Baumgartner questions whether this youth movement and strategic depth play can keep the Twins in the AL Central hunt. Could Ryan Jeffers' contract year be his last in Minnesota? The roster stakes are higher than ever.

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00:00 – Twins 2026 Opening Day Roster

C.J. Baumgartner breaks down his 2.0 prediction for the Minnesota Twins’ 2026 Opening Day roster, with a focus on major pitching staff shakeups and overall lineup projections.

11:04 – Starting Pitching Depth & Young Arms

The discussion shifts to the Twins’ starting pitching depth, highlighting standout performances from young pitchers like Taj Bradley and Mick Abel, and the impact/potential of their development.

25:21 – Catching Situation Breakdown

C.J. Baumgartner analyzes the Minnesota Twins’ catching options, including Ryan Jeffers’ future, Victor Caratini’s role, the lack of top prospects, and what it means for the team long-term.

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: lockedontwins.supercast.com

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Turbo Tax

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Indeed

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

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Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.  

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Minnesota Twins fans react as Ken Rosenthal questions the front office's handling of Pablo López, Joe Ryan, and Byron Buxton following López's season-ending injury. Have the Twins missed their window to maximize trade value, or is the national media's critique an overreaction? C.J. Baumgartner sets the record straight, weighing the risks, fan expectations, and ownership’s role in the team's uncertain direction.

The spotlight then shifts to rising prospect Emmanuel Rodriguez, whose hot spring training start ignites debate about his Opening Day prospects. Plus, a deep analysis of the Twins’ ongoing struggles to find consistency at first base since the Joe Mauer era raises questions about Josh Bell, Victor Caratini, and the lack of a long-term answer. Can Minnesota’s new faces and top prospects change the narrative in 2026? Get the essential insights on the Twins’ roster battles, player development, and future outlook.

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00:00 – Rosenthal’s Critique & Twins Pitchers

Breakdown of Ken Rosenthal’s comments about the Twins’ offseason decisions regarding Pablo López, Joe Ryan, Byron Buxton, and why the current criticism is an overreaction.

16:04 – Emmanuel Rodriguez Spring Surge

Coverage of Emmanuel Rodriguez’s spring training performance, his chances for the Opening Day roster, how he fits in a crowded outfield, development concerns, and service time considerations.

26:57 – Twins First Base Depth Woes

Deep dive into the instability at first base for the Twins since Joe Mauer’s retirement, analysis of current options (Josh Bell, Kody Clemens, Victor Caratini, etc.), and the long-term outlook for the position.

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Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.  

Indeed

Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Use your Profit Boost on an NBA future and get entered for your chance to win a trip to the NBA Finals.  

Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.  

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Everydayer Club

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#minnesotatwins #MLB #Twins

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Minnesota Twins dodge disaster as Joe Ryan avoids a major back injury, reigniting hopes for Opening Day and the World Baseball Classic. Should Ryan still compete for Team USA after this scare, and could this international stage provide his signature moment? The spotlight shifts to young pitcher Kendry Rojas, whose strong spring performance positions him as a dark horse contender for the Twins’ starting rotation, drawing comparisons to franchise greats and sparking debate over recent trade moves.

C.J. Baumgartner highlights the latest spring standouts including Walker Jenkins, Allen Roden, and Emmanuel Rodriguez, while breaking down the crowded second base depth chart led by Luke Keaschall. Is the Twins’ infield depth a blessing or a sign of underlying roster instability? Find out how these developments, plus the fallout from Pablo López’s injury and looming trade scenarios, could reshape Minnesota’s path forward.

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00:00: Joe Ryan Injury Update

Details the lower back injury scare for Joe Ryan, implications for the Twins' rotation, and opinion on whether Ryan should still pitch in the World Baseball Classic.

11:55: Young Twins Players & Kendry Rojas

Highlights standout performances from young Twins prospects in spring training, including an in-depth look at Kendry Rojas as a rotation candidate and trade analysis.

28:16: Second Base Depth Chart

Comprehensive breakdown of the Twins' second base options, why the position group is deep (but not a compliment), and expectations for Luke Keaschall's role.

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Joe Ryan steps into the Minnesota Twins ace role with Pablo López sidelined. Can Ryan anchor the rotation and avoid his notorious second-half slump? C.J. Baumgartner highlights Ryan’s statistical strengths, his path to improvement, and the challenge of staying healthy through a full MLB season. The conversation explores Ryan’s contract situation and how trade rumors could shape the Twins’ pitching future as 2026 approaches.

Andrew Chafin emerges as the ultimate bullpen vibes guy, promising leadership and good clubhouse energy, while Brooks Lee faces scrutiny as the projected opening day shortstop. Is Lee’s range and bat enough, or will prospects like Kaelen Culpepper and Merrick Huston force a shift in the infield? Key topics include Minnesota’s bullpen depth, left-right reliever balance, shortstop succession plans, and the ongoing quest for stability across the diamond. Don’t miss this breakdown of the Twins’ evolving roster and spring training storylines.

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Locked On MLB League-Wide: Every Team, Prospects & More

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00:00 — Joe Ryan Named Twins Starter

Discussion of Joe Ryan taking over as opening spring training starter, analysis on the impact of Pablo Lopez's absence and Ryan's ace potential.

13:22 — Andrew Chafin Bullpen Role

Deep dive on Andrew Chafin's signing, his clubhouse presence, quotes, and potential to fill a key bullpen “vibes” role for the Minnesota Twins.

22:22 — Twins Shortstop Depth

Evaluation of Brooks Lee as the primary shortstop, depth chart options, prospects likely to challenge for the role, and overall defensive concerns.

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Indeed

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FanDuel

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Play your game with FanDuel, the official sports betting partner of the NBA. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.  

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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#minnesotatwins #MLB #Twins

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