The Minnesota Twins received some encouraging news regarding star pitcher Joe Ryan, who exited Sunday's 4-3 win over the Toronto Blue Jays due to elbow soreness. According to manager Derek Shelton, tests revealed no structural damage, and the right-hander is on track to make his next scheduled start.

"He went out and threw today, which was a really good sign. Everything was normal," Shelton told reporters before Tuesday's game in Washington. "He'll throw a bullpen tomorrow, and then, you know, if everything goes according to plan," Ryan will take the mound Saturday against the Cleveland Guardians.

The scare occurred after Ryan faced just two batters on Sunday. He struck out Yohendrick Piñango and walked Kazuma Okamoto before signaling to catcher Victor Caratini and the dugout. After a brief mound conference with Shelton and a trainer, Ryan walked off the field, leaving fans and teammates concerned.

This season, Ryan holds a 2-3 record with a 3.72 ERA. The 2025 All-Star has become the ace of Minnesota's rotation, especially with Pablo López sidelined for the season after Tommy John surgery in February. Durability has been a strong suit for Ryan, who made 30 starts last season and at least 23 in each of the previous three campaigns.

The only health blip this year came during spring training, when Ryan left his first World Baseball Classic exhibition start with lower back tightness. However, he quickly bounced back to make three subsequent appearances and has started every scheduled game this season, including Opening Day in Baltimore.

For Twins fans, this latest update provides a sigh of relief. Ryan's continued presence on the mound is crucial for a team already dealing with key injuries, and his ability to shake off this scare speaks volumes about his resilience and preparation.