Expect Twins standout rookie to deliver innings at first base and outfield in 2026

The Twins opted out of signing Luke Keaschall on April 18 due to various injuries. In his seventh MLB game, Keaschall, who The Athletic was named Minnesota’s Most Valuable Player before 2025, he suffered a broken right forearm after being hit by a sinker from Los Angeles Angels righty Kyle Hendricks.

Keaschall went 7-for-19 with three doubles, five walks and five stolen bases with the Twins before suffering a forearm strain. He picked up where he left off upon his return from the injured list, finishing the season with a .302/.382/.445 slash line with four home runs, 28 RBI, 24 runs and 14 stolen bases in 49 games with Minnesota. He underwent surgery after suffering a sprained left thumb in September, but is expected to be ready for Opening Day.

Twins standout rookie Luke Keaschall will likely provide innings at first base, outfield in 2026

With the Twins last season, Keaschall only played second base and was the designated hitter at times. While he will likely be the Twins’ primary second baseman to start the 2026 season, he will also likely serve innings at first base and in the outfield, as he has played both positions in the minor leagues.

Bobby Nightengale of the Star Tribune has already reported that the Twins want to give Keaschall more experience in the outfield. And while the Twins have Josh Bell and Kody Clemens to play first base, Keaschall could get innings there as well, as the Twins haven’t had a long-term first baseman in a while.

Minnesota’s infield could become very crowded next year, increasing the likelihood of Keaschall serving innings in the outfield and/or at first base. Royce Lewis and Brooks Lee will most likely be mainstays in the Twins’ lineup next year, and infield prospect Kaelen Culpepper should make his MLB debut sometime during the 2026 season if he continues to dominate the minor leagues. Naturally, injuries will occur and this could result in the Twins needing Keaschall to hold down the second base position. But if everyone stays healthy and performs well, Minnesota may have to find a new position for Keaschall.