Twins' Pablo Lopez out for 2026 after Tommy John surgery, which could lead to more trade rumors in Minnesota
CBS Sports
by
Mike Axisa
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Minnesota Twins' right-hander Pablo López faces a lengthy recovery after undergoing Tommy John surgery, which will keep him out for the remainder of the 2026 season. This marks his second such procedure, with a rehab period expected to last 14-18 months. General Manager Jeremy Zoll expressed deep disappointment over the loss of a key pitcher known for his dedication and work ethic. López’s injury significantly impacts the Twins' playoff chances, which dropped to 26% following the news.
López, who turned 30 recently, signed a four-year, $73.5 million contract in April 2023. His absence for the 2026 season and part of 2027 makes him untradeable in the near term due to his high salary and extended recovery period. This leaves the Twins with limited options for immediate help, highlighting the importance of their current rotation.
The Twins’ rotation depth includes promising young pitchers like Joe Ryan, Simeon Woods Richardson, and Taj Bradley. However, without López and facing a challenging schedule, the team’s hopes rest on these players performing at a high level. The loss of López underscores the risks associated with multiple Tommy John surgeries and raises questions about the Twins' ability to rebuild their roster effectively.
López’s injury also shifts focus to other key players like Joe Ryan, who has been linked to trade rumors for over a year. If the Twins fail to improve their standings, Ryan could become a prime trade target at the deadline. His two years of control make him a valuable yet risky asset, as injuries can quickly diminish his trade value.
With López sidelined and the Twins already off to a weak start, the team’s success hinges on its young pitchers stepping up. The absence of proven bullpen arms and an inconsistent lineup further complicates their path to contention, making López’s injury a significant blow to their playoff hopes.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/20/2026