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Fort Myers Today
By the People, for the People
Twins' Ace Pablo Lopez Exits Spring Training with Elbow Soreness
Injury concerns arise as Lopez was set to pitch for Venezuela in World Baseball Classic.
Published on Feb. 17, 2026
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On the first day of the Minnesota Twins' Spring Training, starting pitcher Pablo Lopez left practice early due to elbow soreness. Lopez, the team's ace, was ramping up for the World Baseball Classic when he reported the injury after just two pitches in his final inning of live batting practice. The Twins will have Lopez undergo imaging tests on Tuesday to determine the severity of the issue.
Why it matters
Lopez is a key part of the Twins' starting rotation and his health is crucial to the team's success this season. Any significant injury could jeopardize his participation in the World Baseball Classic for Venezuela and potentially impact the start of the Twins' regular season.
The details
During the Twins' first full-squad workout on Monday in Fort Myers, Florida, Lopez was scheduled to pitch three innings of live batting practice as he prepared for the World Baseball Classic. However, on his second pitch in the final inning, Lopez left the mound and headed to the clubhouse after reporting elbow soreness. Twins manager Derek Shelton said Lopez will undergo imaging tests on Tuesday to determine the extent of the injury.
- The Twins held their first full-squad workout on Monday in Fort Myers, Florida.
- Pablo Lopez left practice early on Monday due to elbow soreness.
- Lopez is scheduled to undergo imaging tests on Tuesday.
The players
Pablo Lopez
The Minnesota Twins' starting pitcher and ace of the rotation, who was ramping up for the World Baseball Classic when he suffered the elbow injury.
Derek Shelton
The manager of the Minnesota Twins, who announced that Lopez will undergo imaging tests on Tuesday to determine the severity of the elbow issue.
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This injury to the Twins' ace raises concerns about Lopez's availability for the start of the season and his participation in the World Baseball Classic. The team will need to closely monitor the results of the imaging tests and determine the best course of action to ensure Lopez's long-term health and the Twins' success.
