Bullpen Instability Fuels 2027 Closer Decision

Jeff Hoffman's 2.63 ERA in 13 2/3 innings since joining Minnesota and control through 2027 make him a logical closer-trial candidate. A.J. Minter's latest clean eighth inning and 2.42 ERA reinforce his value, but the Twins have used 15 different save pitchers while regression from other relievers, Cole Sands' elbow surgery and Kody Funderburk's roster complications leave the broader plan unresolved.