2 Minnesota Twins players who won't make Opening Day roster

C Alex Jackson

Minnesota Twins catcher Alex Jackson — Aug 26, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; (Editors Notes: Caption Correction) Baltimore Orioles catcher Alex Jackson (70) reacts to hitting a single during the third inning against the Boston Red Sox at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: James A. Pittman-Imagn Images | James A. Pittman-Imagn Images

When the Twins traded popular minor leaguer Payton Eeles to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for catcher Alex Jackson, it seemed Jackson would be Minnesota's backup catcher for the 2026 season, especially since he is out of minor league options and the Twins agreed to pay him $1.35 million this year.

But then, Minnesota unexpectedly signed catcher/first baseman Victor Caratini to a two-year, $14 million contract, Minnesota's largest free agent signing since Carlos Correa in 2023.

It seems unlikely the Twins will want to use three roster spots on catchers, even with their $1.35 million agreement with Jackson, who hit .220/.290/.473 (111 OPS+) with five homers and eight RBI in 100 MLB plate appearances last season. The Twins may already be looking to trade Jackson to a team seeking a backup catcher. If the Twins are unable to find a taker for Jackson and don't want to carry three catchers on their 26-man roster, they'll have to designate the former Oriole for assignment. Hopefully, Jackson clears waivers if that occurs, and Minnesota can stash him in the minors to begin the regular season. Unfortunately, that's unlikely. But if another team claimed him, at least Minnesota wouldn't be on the hook for his $1.35 million salary.

OF Alan Roden

Aug 6, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Minnesota Twins outfielder Alan Roden (19) hits a home run in the sixth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Roden, whom Minnesota acquired along with lefty Kendry Rojas from the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for righty Louis Varland and first baseman Ty France last summer, has been on a tear this spring, having gone 3-for-4 with a grand slam and two walks. Unfortunately for the former Blue Jay, he still will likely not make the Opening Day roster.

Unless the Twins decide to have Emmanuel Rodríguez on their Opening Day roster, which may be the right move but is still unlikely, then Roden and James Outman are probably battling for a 26-man roster spot.

Roden may have a higher offensive ceiling than Outman at this point in their careers, but Outman still has a better shot to crack Minnesota's Opening Day roster. Outman is out of minor league options, while Roden can be sent down to Triple-A St. Paul without being placed through waivers. Additionally, Outman is a stronger defender than Roden and was once a Rookie of the Year finalist, giving the former Dodger the edge over the former Blue Jay. Outman has been getting reps at center field this spring, while Roden has played only left field, making Outman a more versatile defender.

Roden will still most likely be on the 26-man roster at some point during the 2026 season, just probably not on Opening Day.