Twins' Joe Ryan Aims to Get Team Back on Track

Starter looks to build on strong first outing against Royals

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:10pm

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Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan is set to take the mound against the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday, just a day after the Twins' scheduled off day. Rather than taking the day off, Ryan used the time to continue his pre-start routine, including some sightseeing with his father in Washington, D.C. after his first outing of the season. The Twins have struggled offensively to start the year, and they'll face three straight left-handed starters from the Royals, presenting a challenge for their lefty-heavy lineup.

Why it matters

The Twins are looking to get their season back on track after dropping three of their first four games. Strong outings from their starting pitchers, like Ryan, will be crucial as the team tries to find its footing at the plate against a tough upcoming schedule.

The details

Ryan, who struck out seven and allowed just one hit in 5 1/3 innings in his first start against the Baltimore Orioles, used the Twins' scheduled off day on Tuesday to continue his pre-start routine. Rather than taking the day off, he went through his usual stretching, cardio, and other exercises to stay sharp. Ryan also took the opportunity to do some sightseeing in Washington, D.C. with his father, Kurt, including visiting the U.S. Capitol, the Air and Space Museum, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

  • Ryan's next start comes on Wednesday night against the Royals.
  • The Twins lost 3-1 in their series opener against the Royals on Opening Day.

The players

Joe Ryan

A right-handed starting pitcher for the Minnesota Twins.

Kurt Ryan

Joe Ryan's father, who is said to be an ultramarathon runner and frequently took his family on long hikes.

Derek Shelton

The manager of the Minnesota Twins.

Matt Wallner

A slugger for the Minnesota Twins.

Noah Cameron

A left-handed starting pitcher for the Kansas City Royals.

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What they’re saying

“I have to be here anyway. There are benefits sometimes to being a starting pitcher, but there's also the other side: You come in on your off days. If you have a bullpen day, or you have to stay in your routine the day before, you go to the ballpark.”

— Joe Ryan, Twins starting pitcher

“To see where the nation has come from, the history that we've preserved, I'm glad we got a chance to do it.”

— Joe Ryan

“Getting lefties back-to-back-to-back 'is better than going two weeks without facing any.'”

— Matt Wallner, Twins slugger

What’s next

Ryan will look to build on his strong first start and help the Twins get back on track against the Royals on Wednesday night.

The takeaway

Despite the Twins' early offensive struggles, their starting pitching, led by Joe Ryan, has kept them in games. Ryan's dedication to his routine and preparation, even on off days, shows his commitment to helping the team turn things around.