Bailey Ober has rediscovered his groove, and the Minnesota Twins are reaping the benefits. After a challenging 2024 season that saw the right-hander post a 5.10 ERA, Ober has made key in-season adjustments that are paying off in a big way.

So, what changed? According to Ober, it all starts with his hand position. "My hand position is way better this year," he told The Athletic. "I think that's credit to my hip being in a healthy spot and I'm not second-guessing my landing spot or where my hand is going to be. My release point right now is a lot more consistent compared to last year."

The results speak for themselves. Through seven starts this season, Ober is 3-1 with a solid 3.55 ERA. His improved mechanics were on full display Thursday against the Toronto Blue Jays, where he tossed six innings while allowing just one run. Last year, his four-seam fastball was getting hammered—hitters batted .273 and slugged .483 against it. This season, those numbers have dropped to .258 and .387, respectively, while his home run rate has also improved significantly.

Ober's resurgence gives the Twins a formidable trio atop their rotation, joining Joe Ryan (3.76 ERA) and breakout star Taj Bradley (2.85 ERA). As a unit, Minnesota's staff ranks eighth in MLB with a 3.79 ERA—a key reason they sit just two games back in the wide-open American League Central race.

With no team in the division currently above .500, the Twins have a real opportunity to compete for the crown. And if Ober continues to pitch with this newfound consistency, Minnesota's rotation could be the engine that drives them there.