TWINS SHOW: Are the Minnesota Twins actually really good?
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The Mackey & Judd podcast dives into the Minnesota Twins' surprising 9-7 start to the 2026 season, with the team sitting atop the AL Central and boasting elite offensive production, second in the American League in runs scored. While the Twins' strong start has sparked optimism, the hosts remain cautious, emphasizing that April form doesn't guarantee playoff success. They highlight Taj Bradley’s breakout as a revelation, with improved command and a 0.00 ERA through four starts, potentially reshaping the rotation. However, major concerns persist: the bullpen ranks 24th in ERA and the team is dead last in defensive runs saved, particularly at shortstop and in right field. The discussion also touches on roster construction, with players like Brooks Lee showing signs of a resurgence after a rough start, and Royce Lewis’s continued injury issues raising red flags. Despite the team’s flaws, the hosts express growing enjoyment in watching the Twins, especially with a more confident managerial presence under Derek Shelton. The episode closes with a playful 'Random Twin' segment, where Chili Davis is correctly identified as the first Jamaican-born MLB player and a three-time All-Star who won multiple World Series with the Twins.
Taj Bradley has emerged as a breakout starter with elite command and a 0.00 ERA through four starts, potentially transforming the Twins' rotation.
The Twins' offense is elite (2nd in AL runs scored), but relies heavily on players like Josh Bell and Austin Martin, while key hitters like Byron Buxton and Royce Lewis remain underperforming.
The bullpen (24th in ERA) and defense (dead last in defensive runs saved) are major vulnerabilities that could derail postseason hopes.
Despite early optimism, the Twins remain a high-risk, high-reward team—fun to watch but not yet a proven contender.
Roster decisions, especially around position players like Brooks Lee and James Oppmann, highlight deeper organizational challenges.
Sponsor: Score North Podcasts & Local Restaurant Support
Promotion for Score North, a Minnesota-based podcast network that helps local businesses connect with engaged sports fans. The segment highlights real-world results from brands like Podraggs Brewing, who saw customers travel from out of state after hearing the podcast.
State of the Twins: Hot Start, But Is It Sustainable?
“If this was 1968 and the season were to end today, the Twins would be going to the World Series.”
Taj Bradley: The Breakout Starter
“Taj Bradley has not allowed a home run through his first four starts. That's a great sign.”
Roster Concerns: Bullpen, Defense, and Injuries
“If you're telling me you have a bottom five bullpen and the worst defense in baseball, yeah, I think it's going to be pretty damn hard to overcome those circumstances.”
Offense & Position Players: Austin Martin, Brooks Lee, and Buxton
Austin Martin’s elite on-base skills (500 OBP in 42 PAs) and Brooks Lee’s recent hot streak are praised. Byron Buxton’s defensive decline at age 32 is questioned as a potential long-term concern.
“If this was 1968 and the season were to end today, the Twins would be going to the World Series.”
“If you're telling me you have a bottom five bullpen and the worst defense in baseball, yeah, I think it's going to be pretty damn hard to overcome those circumstances.”
“Taj Bradley has not allowed a home run through his first four starts. That's a great sign.”
Hosts
Minnesota Twins
other
Taj Bradley
person
Joe Ryan
person
Carlos Correa
person
Royce Lewis
person
Austin Martin
person
Byron Buxton
person
Brooks Lee
person
Score North
organization
Derek Shelton
person
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