Pablo López Eager to Return Ahead of Season’s End

MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. — Minnesota Twins pitcher Pablo López is gearing up for a comeback as he aims to make four to six starts before the MLB season concludes. On Thursday, López expressed his strong desire to return to the mound, even though the team is out of postseason contention.

As he prepared for a scheduled live batting practice on Friday, López acknowledged the importance of showing he is fully healthy after being sidelined since June 4 with a Grade 2 Teres Major strain. His first challenge will be facing batters in a two-inning session.

“I want to do it,” López said. “I want to be able to tell myself I was able to come back from this injury and pitch and perform at the level I know I can perform.”

López, the team’s highest-paid player, has stayed focused throughout his recovery process. He’s met each milestone set for him and feels optimistic about the next steps. “I have to be smart about it,” he noted, stressing the significance of clear communication with the athletic and strength staff.

During his recovery, López felt a sense of disconnect from his teammates, especially after witnessing a busy trade period that resulted in eight players being traded while he was rehabbing. “There were some people I didn’t know initially who were here,” he shared.

He is particularly interested in younger players like Luke Keaschall stepping into key roles. López was surprised to hear that the Pohlad family had sold at least 20 percent of the club to two minority ownership groups.

“Did someone get cold feet?” López pondered regarding the franchise’s future. His return to pitching could also increase his trade value if the Twins decide to make further roster changes.

“I want to be able to go into the offseason feeling healthy,” he added. “That will make it easier in my head to go into the offseason and be like I know it’s going to be a regular offseason.”