Vázquez is rehabbing from a shoulder infection, eyeing live batting practice and a Saints rehab stint in Memphis, with a target to rejoin the Twins’ late-season push, potentially boosting the catching corps and overall lineup depth.

Catcher with left shoulder infection, eyeing a Saints rehab stint; return timeline is pivotal for Twins’ late-season plans.

Vázquez fought a left shoulder infection after a cut on his elbow, needed a PICC line for antibiotics, and spent days hospitalized. A clean-out procedure prevented joint damage. He’s set for a Class AAA rehab stint and hopes to return late in the season, aiming to avoid finishing on the IL while negotiating free-agent timing on a $30M deal.

Vázquez’s shoulder infection necessitated surgery and sidelined him, creating a path for Jeffers to take on more daily catching duties. His absence spurs a shift in Twins’ roster plans, increasing Jeffers’ workload and testing Gasper’s catching-to-pitch-calling ability behind the plate.

Christian Vázquez has been placed on the injured list with shoulder inflammation, highlighting the Twins' need for depth at the catcher position. His struggles at the plate this season have also been noted, as he has posted a low batting average.