Royce Lewis' MRI results reveal 'really encouraging news' for Twins

Lewis won't likely play in a spring training game again for Minnesota until Tuesday, but he expects to resume working out Saturday.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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After experiencing a spasm during a running drill, Royce Lewis underwent an MRI that revealed no serious issues. The Twins' general manager said it was the 'best-case scenario' and 'really encouraging news.' Lewis expects to resume working out with teammates on Saturday and return to game action on Tuesday.

Why it matters

The Twins have been hit hard by injuries early in spring training, with several key players sidelined. Lewis' quick recovery is a relief, as the team looks to avoid further setbacks ahead of the upcoming season.

The details

Lewis removed himself from the lineup a day earlier after feeling a spasm during a running drill. The Twins team doctor reviewed the MRI results and cleared Lewis of any serious issues. While Lewis won't likely play in a game again until Tuesday, he expects to resume working out with teammates on Saturday.

  • On Thursday, Lewis removed himself from the Twins' lineup 'out of an abundance of caution' when he experienced soreness on his right side during pregame base running drills.
  • On Friday, the Twins team doctor reviewed the MRI results and cleared Lewis of anything serious.
  • Lewis expects to resume working out with teammates on Saturday.
  • Lewis won't likely play in a spring training game again for Minnesota until Tuesday.

The players

Royce Lewis

An infielder for the Minnesota Twins who experienced a spasm during a running drill and underwent an MRI that revealed no serious issues.

Jeremy Zoll

The general manager of the Minnesota Twins, who said the MRI results for Royce Lewis were the 'best-case scenario' and 'really encouraging news.'

Joe Ryan

A Twins All-Star pitcher who was sidelined with back tightness but is making progress and may still be able to participate in the World Baseball Classic.

David Festa

A Twins player who is dealing with a shoulder impingement that will likely cost him at least 2-3 weeks.

Alan Roden

An outfielder acquired by the Twins from Toronto, who has made adjustments to his batting stance and approach this spring and is off to a strong start.

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What they’re saying

“Best-case scenario. Really encouraging news. He'll be down (Friday). He's back into baseball activity over the weekend, and we'll see where we are at coming out of the off day. We should be in a good spot here.”

— Jeremy Zoll, General Manager, Minnesota Twins

“Usually when you get MRIs, it's not good. I know here in spring we're very cautious with it. I figured it would be very similar to what Joe's was because I didn't feel anything wrong. I could have played (Thursday), but it was Feb. 26. We're not pushing it. … I was ready to play. I was hitting the ball really well, too. But I'm glad I did it. We're just being smart.”

— Royce Lewis

“As long as I'm feeling good, that's the goal. I just keep hearing it's a fluid situation. That's where we're at. All the parties involved have been super helpful and communicative, and there's a really good plan there and a lot of optimism. We're going to keep pushing in that direction and see where things take us.”

— Joe Ryan

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.