The Twins selected Luke Keaschall's contract on April 18 due to various injuries. In his seventh MLB game, Keaschall, whom The Athletic named Minnesota's Most Valuable Player for 2025, suffered a fractured right forearm after getting hit by a sinker from Los Angeles Angels righty Kyle Hendricks.
Keaschall went 7-for-19 with three doubles, five walks and five stolen bases with the Twins before suffering the forearm strain. He continued right where he left off upon his return from the injured list, ending the season with a .302/.382/.445 slash line with four home runs, 28 RBI, 24 runs and 14 stolen bases in 49 games with Minnesota. He underwent surgery after suffering a sprained left thumb in September, but he is expected to be ready for Opening Day.
Twins standout rookie Luke Keaschall will likely provide innings at first base, outfield in 2026
With the Twins last season, Keaschall only played second base and occasionally served as the designated hitter. While he likely will be the Twins' primary second baseman to begin the 2026 campaign, he will also likely serve innings at first base and outfield, as he has played both positions in the minor leagues.
The Star Tribune's Bobby Nightengale has already reported that the Twins want to give Keaschall more experience in the outfield. And while the Twins have Josh Bell and Kody Clemens to play first base, Keaschall could also get innings there, considering the Twins haven't had a long-term first baseman in a while.
Minnesota's infield could get very crowded next year, increasing the likelihood of Keaschall serving innings in the outfield and/or first base. Royce Lewis and Brooks Lee will more than likely be mainstays in the Twins' lineup next year, and infield prospect Kaelen Culpepper should make his MLB debut at some point during the 2026 campaign if he continues to dominate the minor leagues. Of course, injuries will occur and could lead the Twins to need Keaschall to hold down the second base position. But if everyone stays healthy and performs to their potential, Minnesota may need to find a new position for Keaschall.