Numerous players must improve for the Minnesota Twins to be at least respectable in 2026. Most are considering this a challenging and rebuilding season for the team. Let’s take a look at three position players who need to improve to make the Twins’ season a success.
Ryan Jeffers
Ryan Jeffers is now the full-time catcher following the departure of Christian Vázquez to free agency. Jeffers had a strong offensive year in 2024 with 21 home runs in 412 at-bats. However, he struggled at the plate in 2025. His power production significantly dropped off, hitting just nine homers. His slugging percentage was also the lowest of his career. In addition, he swung at many pitches out of the strike zone. The Twins have a new hitting coach, Keith Beauregard. Expect him to work on Jeffers’ plate approach and make some adjustments in Spring Training in the hopes of him returning to his 2024 form.
Jeffers’ defense, too, remains a weakness, especially his pitch framing and throwing out runners. That needs to change. The Twins’ pitching staff could have as many as five inexperienced arms, and the team needs him to be that field general catchers are known for. The good and bad news is that he is in the final year under team control before he becomes a free agent. Look for him to be inspired to act upon achieving his career goals on offense. Demonstrating he’s a force both offensively and defensively could make the difference in getting a good contract next season—while also helping the Twins in this year’s battle to make a good showing and, maybe, a playoff spot.
Royce Lewis
Infielder Royce Lewis has a chance to stand out as a dynamic player and team leader. Despite his talent, Lewis’ career has been marred by numerous injuries. Widely regarded as a five-tool player, we have seen him hit for average, hit for power, run the bases, field his position, and throw for accuracy. However, it has come in just small sample sizes. Despite the injury concerns, Lewis remains an energetic and forceful player when healthy. The 2026 season is viewed as a make-or-break year for him. He needs to prove he can stay healthy and become that consistent, dependable mainstay player the Twins need.
Matt Wallner
Finally, there’s outfielder Matt Wallner, who’s entering his fifth season with the Twins. Wallner needs to forget what happened at the plate last season and concentrate on getting back his winning form.
He did hit 22 home runs last season, but he also had a career high number of strikeouts and hit just .202 overall. While Wallner can be a strong left-handed hitter, he has struggled with consistency and has also been hampered by injuries. The Twins would like Wallner to be an everyday player and live up to his power potential. This season could decide whether Wallner can become a core piece of the Twins’ future.
Outlook
Numerous players must improve for the Minnesota Twins to be competitive again. Last season, they finished with a dismal 70-92 record. They have made a managerial change, hiring Derek Shelton to get this team back to its winning ways. If the three aforementioned veterans can produce up to their potential, the team could be successful this year. The good news is they also have some young prospects who could contribute immediately on offense, helping them achieve 81 wins. Any hopes of contending in 2026 will depend on how well they play as a team and keep their core players healthy.
