Mickey Gasper's impressive performance in the minors has been overshadowed by the Minnesota Twins' roster decisions. Despite boasting a .344 batting average and a 1.106 OPS, Gasper wasn't called up to replace the injured Royce Lewis. Instead, the Twins opted for DaShawn Keirsey Jr., citing his versatility and ability to play a role that fits the team’s immediate needs. Lewis was placed on the injured list due to a hamstring strain, prompting the Twins to look for a player who could contribute defensively and in pinch-running situations.

Byron Buxton received a unique Father’s Day gift from his kids, which included personalized cleats adorned with their notes and drawings, but he was later scratched from the lineup due to elbow soreness after being hit by a pitch. This injury may affect Buxton's availability moving forward. Meanwhile, the Twins have a day off before resuming their road trip with a series against Cincinnati, as they look to maintain their competitive edge.

DaShawn Keirsey Jr. broke out of a season slump with a dramatic walk-off hit, leading the Minnesota Twins to a thrilling 7-6 victory over the San Francisco Giants. Despite a rocky start from Pablo López, who allowed four runs in five innings, the Twins rallied back, finishing a perfect homestand and extending their win streak to eight games. The game saw Keirsey, who had been struggling with a .067 batting average, finally hit his stride, bringing home Brooks Lee for the game-winning run.

The Twins tied the game in the eighth inning thanks to a ground ball from Ryan Jeffers that scored automatic runner Ty France. The game showcased their resilience, especially after falling behind early. López's performance was salvaged by key defensive plays, including a sliding catch by Willi Castro that limited damage in the first inning. The Twins have now crossed the .500 mark for the first time this season, showcasing their offensive depth and ability to come through in clutch situations.

Three former University of Utah baseball players are set to start the MLB season on Opening Day rosters, highlighting the university's growing impact on professional baseball. Tanner Banks, who pitched for Utah from 2013 to 2014, is on the Philadelphia Phillies' roster. Last season, he pitched a total of 72.1 innings across both the Chicago White Sox and Phillies, showcasing a solid ERA of 3.98. His journey from the 18th round of the 2014 draft to the MLB is a testament to his resilience and skill.

Oliver Dunn, who played for the Utes from 2017 to 2019, will begin his season with the Milwaukee Brewers. Drafted by the New York Yankees in 2019, Dunn made his MLB debut in March 2024, and last season he appeared in 41 games with a .221 batting average. DaShawn Keirsey Jr., a standout from 2016 to 2018, is on the Opening Day roster for the Minnesota Twins after making his debut in September 2024. Keirsey Jr. had limited appearances last season but showed promise with a solo home run in his brief stint.

The Minnesota Twins have finalized their opening day roster, featuring a notable return for right-hander Randy Dobnak, who takes on a long relief role after a four-year gap. Dobnak was added to the 40-man roster following the return of Rule 5 draft pick Eiberson Castellano to the Philadelphia Phillies. Key injuries to relievers Brock Stewart and Michael Tonkin have provided Dobnak's opportunity. Alongside Dobnak, the Twins added Mickey Gasper and Dashawn Keirsey Jr., both earning their first opening day roster spots due to injuries to Royce Lewis and Brooks Lee.

Dobnak, whose journey from an undrafted player to a major leaguer is noteworthy, is set to make $3 million during the last guaranteed year of his contract. His return marks a significant milestone after he spent the last two years in Triple-A, having faced challenges due to injuries. The Twins' bullpen will include Jhoan Duran, Griffin Jax, and other key arms, with Pablo López pitching against the St. Louis Cardinals in their season opener.

Rocco Baldelli made Spring Training memorable for utilityman Mickey Gasper and outfielder DaShawn Keirsey Jr. by delivering the news they earned spots on the Minnesota Twins' Opening Day roster. Gasper, who faced a scare with a cut requiring stitches, expressed his excitement at finally securing a place on an MLB roster. Keirsey, who has played in just six major league games, described the relief and thrill of being selected, marking a significant milestone in his career.

The Twins opted for Keirsey over Austin Martin, emphasizing his defensive skills as an asset to the team. With an outfield that includes Byron Buxton and Harrison Bader, Keirsey is expected to contribute as a defensive replacement or pinch runner. Gasper, a versatile player with limited MLB experience, has shown promise in the minors with a robust on-base percentage. Both players embody the perseverance and determination that define the spirit of baseball.