Twins Option Pitcher Back Down After Joe Ryan Decision

Joe Ryan is back with the Minnesota Twins after missing more than a month with a left glute strain. The right-hander was reinstated from the 15-day injured list Monday, giving Minnesota a major boost ahead of its series opener against the Detroit Tigers.

To make room for Ryan, the Twins optioned right-handed reliever Garrett Acton to Triple-A St. Paul. Acton had been recalled on Sept. 1 and now returns to the minors as Minnesota restores its rotation.

Ryan worked his way back through a rehab appearance with St. Paul before throwing a 30-pitch bullpen session over the weekend. The Twins ultimately determined that he was ready to return to the major league staff.

Before the injury, Ryan had been one of Minnesota’s most reliable starters. He entered Monday with a 6-8 record, 3.65 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 138 strikeouts across 125.2 innings and 23 starts.

The timing of his return is particularly important for a Twins team trying to stay alive in the American League playoff race. Minnesota entered the series 68-75, while Detroit sat at 65-78.

Ryan immediately gets a chance to face the Tigers at Comerica Park, with Troy Melton scheduled to start for Detroit. His workload could be closely monitored after the extended absence.

Acton, meanwhile, heads back to St. Paul after making two appearances during his latest stint with Minnesota. The 28-year-old remains a potential depth option if the Twins need another arm later in September.

The Twins cannot afford many setbacks with the postseason race tightening. Bringing Ryan back gives the club a proven starter for the final stretch while allowing the bullpen to retain its current structure.

For Ryan, the priority will be showing that the glute issue is behind him. If he can quickly regain his pre-injury form, his return could give Minnesota a significant lift during the closing weeks of the season.

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