Former Red Sox Target Predicted To Get Traded To Padres
Ryan on the move?
The Boston Red Sox were closely connected to Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan at the 2025 MLB trade deadline, but talks have cooled this offseason.
Word on the street is that Minnesota isn’t as interested in trading Ryan anymore.
But that didn’t stop Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly from predicting on Monday that Ryan will be dealt to the San Diego Padres before the 2026 MLB trade deadline.
“What would a trade deadline be without San Diego president of baseball operations A.J. Preller taking a massive swing?” Kelly wrote on Monday.
“As is, the Padres could probably use another top-of-the-rotation starter if they hope to compete in a crowded NL West headlined by the two-time defending World Series Champion Los Angeles Dodgers.”
“When you add in that both Michael King and Nick Pivetta will have the chance to opt out and return to free agency following the 2026 season, Preller will be motivated to acquire another starter that can help maximize San Diego’s chances to win it all next year and add insurance for 2027,” Kelly continued.
“Ryan would fit the bill on both counts, as he’s posted a 3.50 ERA and 10 K/9 since the start of the 2024 season. Additionally, the former All-Star can’t become a free agent until after the 2027 season, so he would protect the Padres if they were to lose King and/or Pivetta in free agency next winter.”
Ryan delivered a strong performance for the Twins in 2025, finishing with a 13-10 record, a 3.42 ERA, and 194 strikeouts over 171 innings pitched in 31 appearances. His consistency helped anchor the rotation, earning him his first All-Star selection. Ryan’s command shone through with a 1.035 WHIP, ranking among the league’s best, and he capped the year with a nine-strikeout gem in his final start against the Phillies.
Over his five-year career since debuting in 2021, Ryan has compiled a 46-36 record, a 3.79 ERA, and 719 strikeouts in 641 1/3 innings across 115 games. Drafted by the Rays in 2018 and traded to Minnesota in 2021, he has emerged as a reliable starter, posting double-digit wins in three seasons and leading the AL in strikeouts per nine innings in 2025.
