The Minnesota Twins ended their 2026 season on a high note, defeating the Texas Rangers 5-1 at Target Field in Minneapolis on Sunday. The Twins' season may be over, but there is still plenty of news involving the team, specifically injury updates. Let's take a look at the latest news on three key injured Twins pitchers.
Twins RHP Mick Abel takes big step in recovery
Twins right-hander Mick Abel was seen throwing off a mound at Target Field on Sunday, according to The Athletic's Dan Hayes. It's a big step for Abel, who has been on the injured list since April 20 with right elbow inflammation.
Abel made just four appearances this season before landing on the IL. He struggled over his first two outings, then threw 13 scoreless innings with 16 strikeouts over 13 innings in his final two appearances of the year. He went on a rehab assignment in June but was shut down after experiencing a setback.
If Abel is healthy to begin the 2027 season, he should be part of the Twins' Opening Day rotation.
RHP Pablo López departed Twins early
López missed the entire 2026 season after undergoing Tommy John surgery in February. Despite being sidelined, López stayed with the team during the season and traveled for away games.
López left the Twins on Saturday morning to head home to Miami, according to Betsy Helfand of the Pioneer Press.
“It’s going to be fun to continue to see the progress, because every time I throw, it’s a new milestone,” López said. “It’s either a higher volume, it’s either a longer distance or it’s higher, faster velo with the throw."
Twins place RHP Jeff Hoffman on IL
The Twins placed right-handed reliever Jeff Hoffman on the injured list on Saturday as a corresponding move to activate shortstop Kaelen Culpepper from the injured list. Hoffman is dealing with forearm inflammation.
The Twins acquired Hoffman and cash considerations from the Toronto Blue Jays for left-hander Dasan Hill, right-hander John Klein, infielder Dameury Pena and international bonus pool space on Aug. 3.
Hoffman is under control through the 2027 season. Hoffman, 33, posted a 2.50 ERA with 27 strikeouts over 18 innings out of the Twins' bullpen this year. He had a 3.94 ERA with 75 strikeouts over 48 innings.
The right-hander should be a late-inning arm for Minnesota this year. He has a solid chance of entering the 2027 season as the Twins' primary closer.
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