The Twins’ primary need this season is bullpen arms, which is ironic considering that was the team’s strongest asset before last summer’s fire sale in which five Twins relievers were traded to other teams. Another top starting pitcher would be nice, but with starting pitchers Pablo López, Joe Ryan, Bailey Ober, Zebby Matthews, David Festa, Simeon Woods Richardson, Mick Abel, Taj Bradley and Kendry Rojas already in the organization, Minnesota would be better off spending its money elsewhere. In addition to rebuilding the bullpen, adding a consistent position player should be at the top of Derek Falvey’s priority list this season as the Twins could use an offensive boost. To address their issues, the Twins should consider reuniting with two old friends currently on the free agent market.
2 former Twins free agents who feel destined for a reunion in Minnesota
LHP Caleb Thielbar
Suppose the Twins offer Thielbar an attractive contract. In that case, there’s a good chance the lefty reliever will be interested, as he’s a Minnesota native who previously played every year of his MLB career (2013-15 and 2020-24) with the Twins. last season he signed a one-year contract with the Chicago Cubs. Thielbar had one of the best seasons of his career with the Cubs in 2025, posting a 2.67 ERA with a 25.5% strikeout rate and a 5.9% walk rate in 58 innings. He also tied Brad Keller for the Cubs lead in the hold.
The Twins decided to let Thielbar walk in free agency this past offseason and instead sign Danny Coulombe as the team’s lockdown lefty reliever. The signing of Coulombe worked for the Twins as he was one of their best relievers before being dealt to the Texas Rangers at the trade deadline. However, Coulombe struggled with Texas, posting a 5.25 ERA and missing time due to injury. Meanwhile, Thielbar finished the season strong, pitching big postseason innings for the Cubs. He will be 39 years old next season, so the Twins should try to sign him to a one-year deal.
FROM Rob Refsnyder
The Twins may have a crowded outfield, but they should be interested in adding someone who hits lefties well regardless of position. Signing Refsnyder would give the Twins a huge offensive boost when facing a lefty starting pitcher, and he could pinch-hit for left-handed hitters like Kody Clemens and Alan Roden when the opposing team brings a lefty reliever to the mound. The past two seasons Refsnyder has hit an excellent .302/.396/.554 for a 160 wRC+ against lefties.
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