Get ready for a unique matinee matchup in Minneapolis! This afternoon, the Minnesota Twins host the Miami Marlins for Game 44 of the season, with both teams sending pitchers making their 2026 debuts. First pitch is set for 12:40 PM CT, available on Twins.TV, TIBN, 830 WCCO, and 102.9 The Wolf. For Marlins coverage, check out Fish on First.
The Twins are chasing their first series victory against an NL team this year, and they’re turning to right-hander Zebby Matthews. Recalled today, Matthews steps into the rotation after a tough spring battle for the final spot—one he lost to Mick Abel. Since then, Minnesota has bypassed him for other arms like Connor Prielipp and Kendry Rojas, and his Triple-A numbers explain why: over 34.1 innings, he carries a 4.72 ERA, a 6.09 FIP, and a 4.28 xFIP. His strikeout rate has dipped to 21.9%, while his walk rate has climbed to a career-high 7.4%. The bigger concern? His velocity hasn’t bounced back from spring training, and his breaking pitches lack their usual bite. There’s a glimmer of hope—his last three starts in St. Paul have shown improvement—but for a pitcher known for pinpoint control, the recent wildness is troubling. Can he turn the page today?
On the other side, the Marlins counter with lefty Braxton Garrett, also making his season debut. It’s a fresh start for both hurlers, setting the stage for an intriguing duel.
The Twins made a few roster moves to accommodate Matthews. Reliever Travis Adams was optioned to Triple-A to open a spot. More notably, struggling outfielder Matt Wallner was sent down in favor of utility man Ryan Kreidler. Wallner’s demotion is a tough blow for a player the organization hoped would anchor their next core. Kreidler is likely a short-term fix until top prospects like Alan Roden, Emmanuel Rodriguez, or Walker Jenkins recover from injuries, but there’s a real chance we’ve seen the last of the Forest Lake native in a Twins uniform for a while.
With Wallner out, Austin Martin gets the green light for everyday playing time. Martin has carved out a role as a reliable contributor, and his hot start to the season has earned him this extended look. Over the next few weeks, we’ll find out if he can evolve from a key role player into something more.
Finally, a rare sight: Byron Buxton is getting a day off. He’s been arguably the Twins’ best player this season (though Ryan Jeffers is making a strong case), but even superheroes need a breather. With no off day for another week, today felt like the right time to give him a rest. Expect the Twins to lean on their depth as they aim for a series win.