Opening Day Starter Named by Minnesota Twins Manager Inanely Earlier

Lopez is chosen ahead of Bailey Ober, Chris Paddack, and Joe Ryan. The Twins have several gaps in their rotation after Sonny Gray and Kenta Maeda left in free agency. These needs will need to be remedied for the remainder of the winter, either by internal candidates or by trades or external acquisitions.

Lopez, 27, had a strong season for Minnesota, going 11-8 with a 3.66 ERA last year. He pitched 194.0 innings and struck out 234 hitters, earning him the title of American League All-Star. He led a rotation that took care of Ryan and Maeda’s injuries.

Having spent five years with the Miami Marlins, it was his first season in Minnesota. Luis Arraez, who went on to win the National League batting title, was acquired for him during the previous offseason transaction.

Lopez has a 39-39 lifetime record and a 3.86 ERA. Last season, he started the Twins’ opening game in the playoffs. Before falling to the Houston Astros in the American League Division Series, Minnesota won the American League Central division and proceeded to sweep the Toronto Blue Jays in that round.

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