Joe Ryan Returns to Minnesota for Tests After 5-Run Loss to Royals

Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan is undergoing evaluations for back and glute issues following his Tuesday start against Kansas City.

Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan surrendered five runs, including four earned, and seven hits over 5⅓ innings during a Tuesday loss to the Kansas City Royals. Following the performance against the American League Central’s bottom-ranked team, the All-Star pitcher departed a nine-game road trip to return to Minnesota for medical evaluations. The veteran ace is currently scheduled to meet with the team physician to address physical concerns involving his back and glute.

Statistically, the loss on August 5, 2026, marked the third consecutive defeat for the right-hander. This recent stretch of struggles has caused Ryan’s season record to drop to 6-8 while his earned run average has climbed to 3.65. The Twins organization confirmed on Wednesday that these medical assessments are necessary to determine if a specific injury is hindering the pitcher's ability to perform on the mound.

Delivery Issues and Physical Concerns

Manager Derek Shelton addressed the situation with reporters, noting that the pitcher has expressed frustration regarding his recent mechanics. According to Shelton, the primary issue involves Ryan’s inability to replicate his delivery during his recent starts. The manager emphasized that the club owes it to both the player and the organization to identify exactly what the veteran is feeling physically and how that impacts his approach to the game.

Shelton refused to rule out a physical cause for the mechanical inconsistencies, stating that the team is trying to figure out the root of the problem. The evaluation by the team physician in Minnesota is intended to provide clarity on whether the back and glute issues are the primary factors preventing Ryan from repeating his throwing motion.

Impact on American League Standings

Any potential absence of the All-Star right-hander represents a significant setback for Minnesota. The Twins are currently positioned within a large group of franchises competing for a spot in the American League wild-card race. Losing a rotation staple who has served as the team's ace would complicate their postseason aspirations during the final months of the season.

Joe Ryan’s departure from the active road trip roster comes at a critical juncture as the team continues its nine-game stretch away from home. The veteran has been a cornerstone of the rotation, but his recent three-game losing skid has coincided with these emerging physical complaints.

Evaluation of Recent Performance

The Tuesday outing against the Royals highlighted the pitcher's current struggles, as he was hit hard by a lineup that sits at the bottom of the division. By allowing seven hits in just over five innings of work, Ryan was unable to provide the length or efficiency typically expected of an All-Star starter. The Twins are now awaiting the results of the diagnostic tests to determine the next steps for their veteran starter.

As the medical staff examines the back and glute issues, the club remains focused on identifying why the right-hander is unable to maintain his usual delivery. The frustration voiced by Ryan and noted by Shelton underscores the urgency of the medical return to Minnesota. Until the team physician completes the evaluation, Ryan's status for his next scheduled start remains uncertain.