The Minnesota Twins activated outfielder Austin Martin from the 10-day injured list on Thursday, the team announced. Outfielder Gabriel Gonzalez was optioned to Triple-A St. Paul as a corresponding move.
We have made the following roster moves: pic.twitter.com/P3FGTZhLVQ
— Minnesota Twins (@Twins) September 10, 2026
Martin had been on the IL since Aug. 17 after suffering a left hamstring strain when he crashed into Target Field's left-field wall attempting to make a catch. He went on a two-game rehab assignment with the Saints before being activated, going 3-for-8 with a triple and three RBI.
Martin, 27, has slashed .241/.352/.333 with three homers and 23 RBI across 110 games this year. Mainly a platoon bat, Martin has played solid corner outfield defense and has hit lefties at a strong clip of .258/.405/.403 in 2026.
With the abundance of young outfield talent in the Twins organization, there's a decent chance Minnesota will move on from Martin in the offseason. If he finishes the season strong, Martin has a much better chance of keeping his spot on the Twins' roster next year. Martin will be out of options in 2027, meaning the Twins cannot option him to the minors past this season.
It made sense that the Twins sent Gonzalez down to Triple-A as the corresponding move to reinstating Martin from the IL. The Twins recalled Gonzalez, 22, from the minors on Aug. 30 when center fielder Byron Buxton landed on the IL. Since being recalled, Gonzalez has had just seven plate appearances.
The Twins clearly would rather Gonzalez play every day in Triple-A instead of riding the bench in the majors. There's a chance Gonzalez could play a vital role for the Twins in the future, but he apparently won't this season.
What role will Gabriel Gonzalez play for the Twins next year?
Gonzalez, the Twins' No. 11 overall prospect (MLB Pipeline), could take over Martin's role as a right-handed-hitting outfielder next year if Minnesota lets Martin go in the offseason. But for now, the Twins are letting Martin continue to hold down that role until the season ends.
Gonzalez, whom the Twins acquired from the Seattle Mariners in the Jorge Polanco trade following the 2023 season, unfortunately may not have an everyday role waiting for him in the big leagues in 2027. Next year, the Twins' outfield will presumably consist of Byron Buxton, Luke Keaschall and Byron Buxton.
With Josh Bell set to be a free agent, the designated hitter spot will likely be open next season. However, outfielder Emmanuel Rodriguez, Minnesota's No. 5 overall prospect, appears ready for the big leagues, making it hard to imagine Gonzalez having a role other than a platoon/bench bat for Minnesota next season. Gonzalez also has first-base experience, which could be where he plays long-term.
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