Recent MLB Winter Meetings reports show why the Red Sox won't acquire Joe Ryan from Twins this offseason
Despite various trade rumors regarding right-handers Joe Ryan and Pablo López and center fielder Byron Buxton, The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal reported on Friday that the Twins "do not anticipate moving center fielder Byron Buxton or right-handers Joe Ryan and Pablo López, according to league sources briefed on their plans. Minnesota’s goal is to keep those players, build around them and compete in 2026."
Backing up Rosenthal's report, The Star Tribune's Bobby Nightengale reported on Monday that the Twins are planning to add a power bat and bullpen help this offseason, and the minority investors will be announced this month.
The Twins still could trade one of their stars, but Rosenthal and Nightengale's reports decrease the likelihood of that happening. One of the Twins' most notable trade rumors this offseason has been Joe Ryan to the Boston Red Sox. But it appears that won't occur.
From Winter Meetings: Per source, Red Sox have drawn back on their pursuit of Joe Ryan. Also worth noting, Connelly Early was never introduced by the Red Sox as part of the trade deadline talks last season.
— Rob Bradford (@bradfo) December 8, 2025
The Joe Ryan-Red Sox rumors aren't new; they started in July when the Twins were struggling and selling ahead of the trade deadline. The Twins have reportedly wanted a major league outfielder, like Jarren Duran, Wilyer Abreu or Ceddanne Rafaela, from the Red Sox if they were to give them Joe Ryan. Additionally, they likely would've wanted a young starting pitcher, like lefty Connelly Early, in the deal. However, Bradford's report that Early, who had a 2.33 ERA in four regular-season games with Boston this past season, was never included in trade talks with the Twins is likely a major reason Minnesota hasn't agreed to give them Ryan.
Another reason the Red Sox are backing off their pursuit of Ryan is their recent acquisition of right-handed starting pitcher Sonny Gray from the St. Louis Cardinals. Boston has been searching for a No. 2 starter behind Garrett Crochet, and it appears that Gray will fill that role. The Red Sox may still monitor the starting pitcher market to potentially further improve their rotation, but they are likely ready to head into Opening Day with Gray as their No. 2 starter.