Joe Ryan, Twins Reach Arbitration Agreement

In a significant move, the Minnesota Twins and right-handed pitcher Joe Ryan have finalized a contract agreement, successfully avoiding arbitration. This new deal guarantees Ryan $6.2 million, which includes a $6.1 million salary and a $100,000 buyout on a mutual option for the 2027 season.

Contract Details for Joe Ryan

Joe Ryan was among 18 players lacking an agreement when the filing deadline passed earlier this month. He is now entering his second of three arbitration seasons, having earned $3 million last year. Projections from MLB Trade Rumors contributor Matt Swartz had suggested Ryan would receive a raise to approximately $5.8 million this year. However, the Twins filed at $5.85 million, while Ryan’s proposal stood at $6.35 million. This created a negotiation gap of $500,000.

Arbitration Process Insights

• Teams often adopt a “file and trial” strategy, ceasing negotiations for one-year deals once the filing deadline arrives.
• This approach strengthens the team’s bargaining position and prevents unrealistically high player demands.
• An arbiter can only choose between the player’s or team’s proposed figures, not a midpoint.

From a strategic standpoint, exceptions to the “file and trial” policy can arise for multi-year deals, enabling teams to avoid contentious hearings. The recent contract for Ryan features a mutual option, serving mainly as an accounting measure to defer part of the payment. Historically, mutual options are rarely exercised by both parties.

Future Outlook for Joe Ryan

Even if the mutual option is declined, Ryan will maintain club control through the 2027 season. Last summer, Ryan was a focal point in trade discussions during a period of reorganization for the Twins, who offloaded several key players while retaining him. Initially anticipated to be traded this winter, the team’s strategy has shifted to re-establishing competitiveness by 2026.

Given his reasonable salary and additional year of club control, Ryan could hold considerable trade value at the deadline if he remains healthy. The Twins are aiming to keep him on the roster to contribute to critical games later in the season.

Arbitration Landscape

With Joe Ryan’s contract settled, the Twins have completed their arbitration class. Across Major League Baseball, no more than 15 arbitration hearings are anticipated this year. Of the 18 players initially without agreements, Cade Cavalli, Bryce Miller, and Joe Ryan have since resolved their contract situations.