Locked On Twins - Daily Podcast On The Minnesota Twins

Minnesota Twins squander seven-run lead but walk off against the Colorado Rockies. Was this dramatic June showdown the defining moment of the 2026 season? CJ Baumgartner and Zeke Fuhrman break down the roller-coaster contest featuring clutch home runs from Kody Clemens and Brooks Lee, late heroics by Royce Lewis, and the bullpen collapse that exposed the team’s biggest flaw.

The discussion spotlights Taj Bradley’s stellar start, glaring relief pitching woes, and the long-term impact on Minnesota’s playoff hopes. Key topics include offseason priorities like extending Ryan Jeffers, AJ Minter’s free agency value, and possible clubhous...

Minnesota Twins future hinges on Walker Jenkins electrifying West Coast breakout. Can his late-season surge anchor a new era for the franchise? CJ Baumgartner spotlights Jenkins pivotal performance against Los Angeles and San Francisco, breaking down his eye-popping stats and what they signal for the Twins 2027 playoff push. The episode also raises key questions about Jenkins consistency, swing adjustments, and the pressure on Minnesota’s next wave of prospects.

Key discussion points include the return of contact hitting in MLB, the postseason lessons for the Twins, and how strikeout rates shape championship contenders. CJ Baumgartner compares Yovanny Du...

Byron Buxton claims his place as the Minnesota Twins Most Valuable Player, but does his impact outweigh questions about his durability? CJ Baumgartner and special guest Corey Tackmann debate Buxton’s game-changing presence, Kody Clemens solid contributions, and the offensive struggles that defined the Twins season after Buxton’s injury. The conversation also highlights the rise of prospects like Luke Keaschall and Brooks Lee, with insights into Ryan Jeffers underrated value behind the plate.

Derek Shelton faces a report card after his first season as Twins manager, with grades on pitching management, clubhouse vibes, and lineup choices. Key...

Minnesota Twins Taj Bradley emerges as the 2026 ace, outshining Joe Ryan and powering the rotation with a team-leading 205 strikeouts and a 3.73 ERA. Can Bradley sustain his performance and become the clear long-term leader on the mound, or does Ryan still have a shot to reclaim his All-Star form? CJ Baumgartner compares the two pitchers’ seasons, breaking down advanced stats, first-inning struggles, and the importance of consistency in the Twins’ quest for pitching dominance.

Rule changes are shaking up Major League Baseball. Will a shorter 154-game season and expanded best-of-7 Division Series transform the playoff picture, or is the...

Minnesota Twins lock in Rookie of the Year honors with Connor Prielipp’s dominant pitching surge, leaving no room for debate. Can Prielipp’s late-season momentum carry into 2027? CJ Baumgartner dissects Prielipp’s impressive strikeout totals, his development as a starter, and how he stacks up historically among Twins rookies. The episode also highlights contributions from young arms like Andrew Morris and examines whether Prielipp truly outperformed the competition.

Kaelen Culpepper emerges as the Twins standout first-year position player, edging out Walker Jenkins and Emmanuel Rodriguez with solid production and elite bat speed. Which rising star showed the mo...

Brooks Lee was the Minnesota Twins best defender in 2026, full defensive outlooks, and playoff fielding breakdowns.

Photo Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images

Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 
🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-twins/

Locked On MLB League-Wide: Every Team, Prospects & More
🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/mlb/

0:00 Brooks Lee Is Twins Gold Glove

11:42 Twins Fielding Turnaround Coming?

23:47 Postseason Teams Have Good Defense

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the p...

Kody Clemens powers the Minnesota Twins with a breakout 2026 campaign, leading the team in home runs and surpassing all expectations. Has he secured his future in Minnesota? CJ Baumgartner spotlights Clemens as the Twins Most Improved Player, weighing his dramatic rise against teammates like Brooks Lee, Taj Bradley, and Yoendris Gomez, while asking if Clemens newfound value will influence the team’s offseason moves.

Key topics include the Stock Up, Stock Down report on Luke Keaschall's fit in left field, Byron Buxton’s likely return for 2027, and the Twins missed postseason opportunity in a weak American League. The...

Minnesota Twins double down on Byron Buxton’s future. Will keeping their top hitter power a 2027 playoff push? CJ Baumgartner breaks down the Twins’ offseason strategy, spotlighting management’s public support for Buxton and a deep dive into his value amid persistent injuries. The episode probes Trevor Larnach’s uncertain status, with roster shakeups hinting that his time with the Twins may be over as rising stars like Walker Jenkins and Emmanuel Rodriguez eye outfield roles.

The conversation pivots to the Twins mastery of MLB’s new ABS (automatic balls and strikes) system in 2026, where catchers Ryan Jeffers an...

Minnesota Twins future hinges on their next pitching coach hire. Will Jeremy Zoll and Derek Shelton’s new leadership spark a breakthrough or reinforce a familiar ceiling? CJ Baumgartner examines the high-stakes decision set to define the front office era, exploring how staff changes and organizational philosophy could impact Pablo Lopez, Joe Ryan, and the entire pitching pipeline.

Twins culture generates buzz, but is an identity crisis undermining postseason ambitions? CJ Baumgartner unpacks Tom Polad’s vision and questions whether "culture" can translate into a winning brand of baseball. Plus, prospect spotlight shines on Vahn Lackey and Cars...

Minnesota Twins fans demand action as chairman Tom Pohlad faces mounting pressure to invest in the team and boost payroll. Can the Twins ownership finally break the cycle of lip service and put real resources behind their postseason ambitions? CJ Baumgartner spotlights Pohlad’s promises to support GM Jeremy Zoll financially, raising expectations for bold moves and a more aggressive push toward a playoff berth.

The episode unpacks Jeremy Zoll’s elevation to head of baseball operations and questions whether internal promotions signal organizational complacency or a genuine new direction. Insights on bullpen priorities, pending front office chan...

Minnesota Twins fire pitching coach Pete Maki, signaling the end of the Derek Falvey era. Will this shakeup finally unlock the pitching depth fans have craved? CJ Baumgartner examines the decision’s ripple effects on the Twins coaching staff, breaking down how years of inconsistent development from key arms like Bailey Ober and organizational challenges have kept Minnesota stuck in the middle of the MLB pack.

Key discussion points include Josh Bell’s strong 2026 season and why, despite his clubhouse value, a return in 2027 doesn’t fit with the Twins’ plans for Luke Keaschall at DH. CJ Baumgart...

Minnesota Twins shift into win-now mode as Byron Buxton, Walker Jenkins, and Luke Keaschall headline a young core set to ignite a playoff push in the wide-open AL Central. Can the revamped outfield defense and improved infield give the Twins the edge they need for 2027? CJ Baumgartner breaks down the team’s lofty expectations, spotlighting Luke Keaschall's breakout season and discussing whether this rising roster can deliver postseason success.

Key topics include the impact of Brooks Lee’s position change, the stability of the starting rotation featuring Pablo Lopez, Joe Ryan, and Taj Bradley, and bullpen depth ques...

The Minnesota Twins dropped game two after Bailey Obers 10 hits allowed. Join the crew after the game.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Minnesota Twins try to finish the season on a high note with double digit runs at the plate. Join the crew after the game.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minnesota Twins weigh Derek Shelton’s future as manager after a turbulent season highlighted by clubhouse unity and bullpen issues. Should the Twins keep faith in Shelton for another year, or is a bigger shakeup looming as front office changes take hold? CJ Baumgartner grades Shelton’s debut campaign, dissecting crucial moments from questionable bullpen usage to effective player communication.

Joe Ryan’s late-season struggles take center stage, with his declining fastball and second-half woes raising questions about his role in the starting rotation. Key pitching matchups for the final series against the Texas Rangers get spotlighted, as the...

Minnesota Twins are on track to fall short of expectations in 2026. Did they actually underachieve? CJ Baumgartner breaks down why the Twins 75-ish win season isn’t the surprise some claim, calling out how preseason projections, including those from ESPN and Fangraphs, pegged this club exactly where they landed. With a C- grade from ESPN, CJ Baumgartner critiques the team’s lack of star power, late-season collapse, and ownership’s limited commitment to winning, while highlighting the need for more than just a reliance on a weak AL Central.

The discussion spotlights Luke Keaschall's fielding future, evaluating his ar...

Minnesota Twins face a pivotal offseason as locking up Taj Bradley to a contract extension emerges as the franchise’s top priority. Could Bradley become the ace of the future? CJ Baumgartner breaks down why investing in Bradley now could mirror the successful Pablo López deal, discusses the value of strikeouts, and weighs the pros and cons of prioritizing Bradley over Joe Ryan. Get the scoop on contract structures, payroll implications, and the franchise’s long-term vision for its pitching rotation.

Meanwhile, are the Twins preparing for a bullpen shakeup in 2027? CJ Baumgartner explores the closer situa...

The Minnesota Twins try to finish the season on a high note as Connor Prielipp and Luke Keaschall lead the way in a 4-2 Twins win over the San Francisco Giants!

Photo Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minnesota Twins front office faces uncertainty as Jeremy Zoll’s future comes into question, has he truly earned the top job, or is it time for a shakeup? CJ Baumgartner analyzes the implications of ownership’s next move, debating whether a full-scale leadership search is needed or if continuity will rule the day amid another late-season collapse.

Key discussions spotlight Aaron Sabato’s big league debut and what his first base starts reveal about Royce Lewis’s standing with the team. CJ Baumgartner also examines Travis Adams’s case as a lock for the 2027 bullpen, dissecting his recent per...

The Minnesota Twins fall 5-2 due to early runs allowed from Zebby Matthews. Emmanuel Rodriguez and Brooks Lee go yard for the Twins.  Join the crew after the game.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minnesota Twins pitcher Connor Prielipp shakes up the rotation outlook with a resilient rookie season, sparking debate about his potential Opening Day role in 2027. Can Prielipp solidify himself as a reliable 4th or 5th starter, or will command issues and hard contact hold him back? CJ Baumgartner highlights Prielipp’s fastball velocity, workload management, and the organizational patience needed before shifting him to the bullpen.

Walker Jenkins impresses with a late-season surge, while Dean Kremer’s back-end steadiness provides hope for next year’s depth. The episode spotlights stock fluctuations for Twins players. AJ Minter’s September struggle...

Walker Jenkins ignites hope for Minnesota Twins fans with a breakout stretch, raising questions about his role in the team’s future core. Can this top prospect prove he belongs in the big leagues as the season closes, and will his momentum carry into 2027? CJ Baumgartner spotlights Jenkins’ electrifying performance, while cautioning against overreacting to small sample sizes as Minnesota continues to evaluate its next generation of stars.

Key discussions include whether Jeff Hoffman should take over as closer in the final nine games amid Yoendris Gomez’s late-season struggles. The show also examines Eduardo Tait's missed opport...

Kaelen Culpepper secures his spot as the Minnesota Twins 2027 shortstop after an impressive, if shortened, run. But concerns mount as trust in Yoendrys Gómez's closing abilities begins to fade. Can the Twins’ bullpen stabilize after a rocky second half, or is a shake-up looming before next season?

CJ Baumgartner breaks down Culpepper’s production, the significance of his injury, and why Ryan Kreidler’s defensive prowess could make him the Twins’ go-to utility man on Opening Day. The discussion explores Luke Keaschall's clutch moments, issues in the Twins’ pitching strategy, rising young talent like Emmanuel Rodriguez and Walker...

The Minnesota Twins playoff hopes are skating thin as they take on the Yankees at home with Bailey Ober on the mound. Join the crew after the game.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minnesota Twins fans pin their late-season hopes on Emmanuel Rodriguez as the team’s playoff dreams slip away. Is Rodriguez’s powerful bat enough to make these last 12 games worth watching? CJ Baumgartner spotlights Rodriguez’s rapid rise, eye-popping metrics, and the growing excitement around top prospects Walker Jenkins and Kaelen Culpepper. With the bullpen faltering, Andrew Morris’s struggles prompt a critical look at managing high-leverage innings down the stretch.

The Athletic names drafting Vahn Lackey third overall as the Twins’ top moment of 2026. Does this pick signal a turning point for Minnesota’s future? Key discussion p...

The Minnesota Twins playoff hopes are skating thin as they take on the Yankees at home with Dean Kramer on the mound. Join the crew after the game.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minnesota Twins face a critical offseason decision: should Byron Buxton remain the face of the franchise despite another injury-plagued second half? CJ Baumgartner argues that Buxton’s talent and affordable contract still make him an invaluable asset, even as questions swirl around his health and trade value. With the team’s offense struggling in Buxton’s absence, are the Twins really better off moving on, or is patience the best play?

The spotlight also turns to the Twins’ youth movement as Walker Jenkins, Emmanuel Rodriguez, and Calen Culpepper get their shot in the lineup. CJ breaks down the “Sto...

The Minnesota Twins' playoff hopes are hanging by a thread as they bounce back in game two versus Cleveland and even the series 1-1. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Minnesota Twins' playoff hopes may have been extinguished tonight after a 9th inning collapse. Join the crew for the instant reaction. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minnesota Twins second-half woes deepen as the playoff window narrows. Who’s truly to blame for this recurring collapse? CJ Baumgartner explores why ownership, front office misfires, and underperforming stars like Carlos Correa and Byron Buxton all share responsibility for the Twins’ prolonged post-All-Star break struggles. Historical win/loss trends, questions about roster depth, and missed opportunities in free agency add fuel to the fire.

Derek Shelton’s quick hook strategy comes under scrutiny as faltering starting pitching forces the Twins into survival mode. Can Kaelen Culpepper rebound after weeks of inconsistency, and what do his advanced stats...

Minnesota Twins face a turning point as Royce Lewis’s future with the team hangs in the balance. With just 16 games left, Lewis’s recent struggles, rising infield pop-ups, inconsistent fly ball rates, and average exit velocity, raise tough questions about his role and whether a trade is imminent. Is it time for the Twins to move on, or can Lewis reclaim his standing as a cornerstone player before season’s end?

CJ Baumgartner highlights why re-signing AJ Minter should top the Twins’ offseason priorities, citing his superb bullpen stability and consistent ERA. The conversation shifts to Walker J...

The Twins continue their long road trip in Detroit with Zebby Matthews on the mound. Join the crew for the quick reaction.

Photo Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Twins continue their long road trip in Detroit with Dean Kremer on the mound. Join the crew for the quick reaction.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minnesota Twins’ slim playoff hopes rest on a razor’s edge. Can they ignite one last winning streak to seize a wild card spot? Fangraphs pegs the odds at just over 2%, forcing Joe Ryan, Connor Prielipp, and the Twins’ offense to step up against pitching-light lineups like the Angels and Rangers. With must-win scenarios looming, the debate intensifies: will a strategic Ryan-Prielipp piggyback keep arms fresh, or should the Twins play all-in until mathematical elimination?

The conversation focused on Minnesota’s record-shattering 700 minor league home runs, spotlighting emerging sluggers like Walker Jenkins, Matt Wallner, and Eduardo Tait. One conc...

Minnesota Twins playoff dreams fade as CJ Baumgartner breaks down why the team has run out of gas. Are the stars like Byron Buxton, Ryan Jeffers, Trevor Larnach, and Joe Ryan losing steam at the worst possible time? With an offense that’s cooled off since the All-Star break and key players wearing down, the Twins wild card hopes look bleak as they fall behind division rivals. Baumgartner unpacks why their recent 12-20 stretch might be the season’s turning point and examines if sweeping the Tigers or Guardians can revive their chances.

Key segments spotlight rookie stan...

The Twins looked lifeless at the plate tonight versus the White Sox as they drop game one. Join the crew for the quick reaction.us 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minnesota Twins face a crossroads: was buying at the MLB trade deadline a wasted gamble, or a smart move for next season? CJ Baumgartner breaks down the immediate impact of key acquisitions like AJ Minter, Jeff Hoffman, Dean Kremer, and Tommy Nance, revealing their limited effect on a struggling bullpen and exploring whether recent trades truly raised the team’s floor.

Trevor Larnach’s second-half slump puts his future with the Twins in question. Should Minnesota limit his role to make room for fresh prospects like Emmanuel Rodriguez and Walker Jenkins? Previewing a critical rematch against the Chic...

Minnesota Twins fans witness a déjà vu as Luke Keaschall emerges as the team's new Luis Arraez, lighting up the lineup with elite contact hitting and on-base skills, but facing familiar defensive questions. Can Keaschall’s high-average, low-power approach spark the Twins’ offense, or will his defensive liabilities limit his long-term role?

CJ Baumgartner breaks down Keaschall’s remarkable stretch since July 1, analyzes Andrew Morris’ recent bullpen struggles, and identifies what’s gone wrong with Morris’ pitch mix. The episode highlights Emmanuel Rodriguez’s hot bat in Triple-A and outlines the exact scenario for his MLB call-up, with pl...

The Twins magic ran out in the 12th inning as their 3 game winning streak is snapped versus Detroit in game 3. Join the crew for the quick reaction.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Minnesota Twins seek a spark as Ryan Jeffers aims to have his own “Michael Cuddyer moment” to revive playoff hopes. With Byron Buxton sidelined and the offense struggling, CJ Baumgartner examines whether Jeffers, a top-three hitting catcher in MLB, can power the Twins back into postseason contention. Is Jeffers ready to carry the offensive load and fuel Minnesota’s late-season push?

Key topics include Ben Ross’s call-up and the possibility of him embracing a vital utility role reminiscent of Nick Punto, providing defensive flexibility for a team desperate for stability. CJ Baumgartner also takes a strong stance o...