The Minnesota Twins are grappling with a significant challenge as right-hander Pablo Lopez may miss the entire 2026 season due to a torn elbow ligament. According to a report by The Athletic‘s Aaron Gleeman on March 5, 2026, Twins general manager Jeremy Zoll indicated that “surgery is very much on the table” for Lopez, who experienced discomfort during a live batting practice session earlier this week.
Lopez, who will turn 30 on March 7, 2026, has been a key player for the Twins since joining the team from the Miami Marlins three seasons ago. During his tenure, he has compiled a record of 31-22 with a 3.68 ERA and earned an All-Star selection in 2023. The potential loss of Lopez poses a severe setback for the Twins, who are already navigating a challenging period as they rebuild their roster.
The Twins’ recent history includes a major roster overhaul, having traded away ten players from their major league squad at last year’s trade deadline. With spring training underway, Lopez was seen as one of the few remaining core players poised to contribute significantly to the team’s future. His presence was expected to bolster the pitching rotation, especially after his impressive performance in previous seasons.
Over the past three years, Lopez emerged as one of the more reliable starters in Major League Baseball, making 32 starts each year from 2022 to 2024, and achieving a career-high of 194 innings pitched in 2023. However, the 2025 season raised concerns about his durability, as he managed only 14 starts due to a right forearm strain.
The Twins had contemplated trading Lopez to acquire prospects, a strategy that could have been beneficial in their rebuilding efforts. His current contract, which runs for two more years and is valued at $43.4 million, made him an attractive asset. With Lopez’s potential absence, the Twins will have to rethink their plans, as it diminishes their ability to leverage his value in prospective trades.
While there are other marketable players on the roster, such as right-hander Joe Ryan and outfielder Byron Buxton—if he waives his no-trade clause—the loss of Lopez would complicate the team’s ability to strengthen their future. The organization is now faced with the reality that they might need to explore alternative strategies to navigate this unforeseen challenge.
The Twins’ path forward remains uncertain, but the focus will be on closely monitoring Lopez’s condition as they assess their options for both the immediate and long-term future.
