3 toughest Twins roster decisions to make before Opening Day
Who fills the back end of Minnesota's bullpen?
The Twins shocked fans by granting veteran relievers Liam Hendriks and Andrew Chafin their releases yesterday.
Presumed locks to make the Twins' Opening Day bullpen are Anthony Banda, Taylor Rogers, Cole Sands, Justin Topa and Eric Orze. The final three spots are up in the air.
Righty Dan Altavilla, who spent time with Team Italy this spring, has likely earned a spot on the Opening Day roster. As for the other two spots, potential candidates include Zak Kent, Travis Adams and Kody Funderburk. Kent, whom the Twins claimed off waivers last month, probably has a spot on the team. The final spot will likely go to Funderburk and Adams.
If the Twins make their decision based on results, Funderburk has the edge. In 24 innings across August and September of 2025, Funderburk allowed just two earned runs on 19 hits and 10 walks while collecting 28 strikeouts. He's continued where he left off this spring, posting a 1.35 ERA with seven strikeouts over 6 2/3 innings.
If the Twins prefer to have just two lefties on their roster, then Adams, who has allowed two runs over 2 2/3 innings this spring, will probably claim the final bullpen spot over Funderburk.
Who is the backup shortstop behind Brooks Lee?
The backup shortstop role will most likely go to either Ryan Kreidler or Orlando Arcia. Kreidler likely has the best chance of the two since he can play outfield, but Minnesota could also prefer Arcia's MLB experience.
It honestly doesn't matter too much who the Twins decide to be the backup shortstop. Whoever the Twins decide to fill that role to begin the season likely won't be with the team for long, as top infield prospect Kaelen Culpepper should take their spot on the 26-man roster later in the season.
Which outfielders make the Twins' Opening Day roster?
As of now, outfielders Byron Buxton, Matt Wallner and Trevor Larnach are locks to make the Opening Day roster. Kody Clemens should also be on the Opening Day roster and can play corner outfield, but he will most likely mainly play first and second base. Also, as stated earlier, Kreidler can play outfield.
It appeared Austin Martin was going to break camp on the big-league squad as well, but he recently suffered a concussion.
James Outman is out of options and having a strong spring, so he appears likely to make the 26-man roster. That leaves one open outfield spot, which will likely go to Alan Roden or Eric Wagaman, who can also play first and third base.
Roden has had a great spring, slashing .333/.395/.436. However, since Roden is a lefty hitter, and the Twins have plenty of those, the team may prefer Wagaman, who bats from the right side and slashed .283/.321/.462 over 173 at-bats against southpaws last year.