Twins rookie star infielder Luke Keaschall must make surgery decision as quickly as possible as he deals with left thumb injury
After Twins infielder Luke Keaschall visits with a specialist next week, the rookie phenom will decide if it's necessary to undergo surgery for the left thumb injury he suffered while diving into second base on a steal during the Twins' 4-1 win against the Texas Rangers on Tuesday at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.
The Twins have already placed Keaschall on the injured list, ending the infielder's season. Minnesota recalled outfielder DaShawn Keirsey Jr., whom the Twins previously demoted to Triple-A St. Paul for the fourth time this season on Monday, as a corresponding move.
Keaschall, 23, has already suffered various serious injuries in his professional career. He underwent Tommy John surgery in August of last year before making his MLB debut in April this season. Keaschall played in just seven games with the Twins before suffering another brutal injury, a right forearm fracture due to being hit by a sinker from Los Angeles Angels starter 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, as he slashed .302/.382/.445 for a 134 wRC+ with four home runs, 28 RBIs, 24 runs and 14 stolen bases in 49 games with Minnesota this season. The Athletic named Keaschall as the Twins' Most Valuable Player for 2025.
While it's unfortunate that Keaschall suffered yet another injury, the bright side is that the season will conclude on Sunday anyway. Therefore, Keaschall should be healthy the next time the Twins play meaningful games unless he suffers another injury during the offseason or spring training. Keaschall will most likely be the Twins' opening day second baseman next season, and it's possible he will see time at first base and corner outfield as well. Of course, Keaschall will always be in the mix to serve as the designated hitter, too.