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Red Sox Opponent Scratches Superstar Pitcher Before Spring Training Matchup

Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan was scratched from his start against the Boston Red Sox on Saturday.

Keagan Stiefel

Red Sox Opponent Scratches Superstar Pitcher Before Spring Training Matchup image

Sep 20, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Joe Ryan (41) reacts to Cleveland Guardians catcher Bo Naylor’s (23) solo home run during the second inning of game one of a double header at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The Boston Red Sox won't have to contend with Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan, after all...

Ryan, who finished with a 3.42 ERA in 2025, was scratched from his scheduled start just minutes prior to his club's Grapefruit League opener at Hammond Stadium on Saturday.

Ryan has "low back tightness on his right side," according to Twins Public Relations.

It's rather ironic that he was scratched on this day, from this start.

Ryan was considered one of the premiere options at last season's trade deadline, with many reports tying him to the Red Sox, New York Mets and San Diego Padres -- though he ultimately stayed put and is expected to remain with his current organization until at least this upcoming trade deadline.

Ryan will join a new team soon, however, as he is slated to pitch for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic.

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