Mick Abel Could Give the Twins a 2027 Pitching Boost

On November 4, the Twins faced an offseason in which they would need to address several roster needs through both trades and free-agent signings. Internal options could also matter, particularly with uncertainty around the market and the team’s need for pitching.

Abel began 2026 in Minnesota’s rotation after arriving from the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2025 Joan Duran trade. He made three starts, working 20 1/3 innings with a 3.98 ERA, before right elbow inflammation sent him to the injured list in April. He did not return that season.

His health remains a concern, but the Twins could still have a useful arm if he is ready to pitch in 2027. One possibility is moving him to the bullpen, where a multi-inning role could let him contribute while limiting the demands on his arm. If a starter is injured, he could then be considered for a rotation spot.

Abel was ranked 49th among prospects by MLB Pipeline in 2024, before injuries and his major-league debut affected his standing the following year. The Twins have handled other young pitchers carefully, and a cautious approach with Abel could help avoid rushing his development. The club could be competitive in 2027, but its young players still need time to develop.