AL Central: Prospect patience in MIN

Minnesota Twins

21-year-old Walker Jenkins and 23-year-old Emmanuel Rodriguez are currently the crown jewels of the Twins' farm system, with Jenkins ranking 9th on the HQ100, and Rodriguez coming in at 49. Neither will be opening the season with the Twins—Jenkins was assigned to Triple-A last week, and Rodriguez was assigned there on Monday—but that doesn't mean they won't get MLB playing time in 2026.

There are several ways that could happen (from most likely to least likely):

  • Byron Buxton could land on the IL, something he's done each of the last nine seasons. Even in a relatively healthy and productive 2025 season, he spent 31 days on the IL. Both Jenkins and Rodriguez have spent time at CF in the minors.
  • The Twins could tire of

More From PT Tomorrow

Connor Wong is one of several AL East catchers whose playing time outlook could be altered as teams seek upgrades at the trade deadline. Plus, a potential rotation upheaval in TOR, and Encarnacion-Strand emerging in BAL.
Jul 28 2026 3:05am
The Nationals bolstered their team for the stretch run and beyond by adding Connelly Early to their rotation, and all it cost them was Curtis Mead...and hopefully not their eternal souls. Plus: Acuña in ATL; SP in MIA; next men up at NYM; needs in PHI; more.
Jul 27 2026 8:39am
Two impact Padres' starting pitchers are close to a return. Plus implications of Will Smith's neck, Rockies OF situation, and check in on young players who may be getting their chance in the NL West.
Jul 25 2026 3:07am
Shane Smith's awful season hasn't improved in the minors. Plus, two top prospects at Triple-A for CLE, Javier Báez starts a rehab assignment, and a look at SP depth in KC and MIN.
Jul 23 2026 3:05am

Tools