Joe Ryan drama could open the door for SF Giants to steal ace from Twins

While it seemed like the SF Giants, and all teams, were out of the running for Minnesota Twins ace Joe Ryan, some recent potential drama could create an opening for the Giants to make a play for the San Francisco native.

Ryan reportedly is not set to attend TwinsFest, a fan fest for Twins fans to get to meet with and interact with players. This does not necessarily mean he is upset with the team or wants out of Minnesota, but given the timing is so soon after Ryan and the Twins failed to agree on a one-year contract as his salary for 2026 will likely be determined in an arbitration hearing, maybe there is some discontent.

SF Giants can swoop in and steal Joe Ryan from the Twins

Ryan sought a $6.35 million contract while the Twins submitted an offer of $5.85 million. The matter of $500,000 is fairly insignificant and one would think the two sides could easily bridge that gap considering Ryan was an All-Star last season and is the ace of the staff.

Instead, the matter will be settled in arbitration. We will see which side ends up winning or if they are able to settle on something before the hearing, but Ryan is coming off his best career campaign as he sported a 13-10 record with a 3.42 ERA in 31 appearances and 171 innings pitched.

Entering the offseason he seemed like a golden potential trade piece, especially since the Twins were reportedly looking to cut payroll. But the Twins decided that they were going to hold onto their key players to try and compete in 2026.

However, teams will always listen and if things have grown a little bit icy between the two sides, then maybe the Giants can strike while the iron is hot and land themselves a true upgrade to the rotation.

It would take a pretty nice package to get the Twins to listen, so the Giants might have to part ways with a top prospect like Josuar Gonzalez. They might also have to throw in a young pitcher like Landen Roupp which would create an opening in the rotation for San Francisco. Maybe the Twins would want another proven big league player like Heliot Ramos as part of a deal as well.

The Giants would have to give up a lot, but it might be worth it to land a true upgrade to the starting rotation. Plus, the fact that Ryan is from the Bay Area could make it easier to keep him around long-term.

It still seems unlikely the Twins will trade Ryan, but this drama that could potentially be stewing might create the slightest opening San Francisco can take advantage of.