The Minnesota Twins received encouraging news about injured pitcher Zebby Matthews ahead of their matchup with the Chicago Cubs. Matthews, recovering from a shoulder strain, threw live batting practice for the first time in over a month, completing around 40 pitches and expressing satisfaction with how it felt. He acknowledged some challenges with control due to adrenaline, but was optimistic about progressing towards a rehab assignment with the St. Paul Saints. The Twins are eagerly anticipating his return, especially with their rotation missing ace Pablo Lopez and Bailey Ober.

Manager Rocco Baldelli was excited about Matthews' performance during practice, alongside rookie infielder Luke Keaschall, who is also on the injured list. Both players' returns are uncertain, adding to the Twins' depth issues as they continue their season. Matthews emphasized the importance of patience in recovery, indicating he is not rushing the process but is keen to return to the mound as soon as possible.

Heading into Week 15 of the 2025 MLB season, savvy fantasy baseball managers can capitalize on injured players who still hold immense potential for the second half of the season. Among the top stash-worthy players are Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox, expected to return in early July, and Bryce Miller from the Seattle Mariners, projected to be back by late July or early August. Anthony Santander, Kerry Carpenter, and Jameson Taillon are also key names to monitor closely for their imminent returns.

Players like Lane Thomas and Zebby Matthews present low roster percentages but could offer significant upside if they can get back on the field soon. Managers should be proactive in acquiring these players to strengthen their rosters, particularly in leagues with limited options. By stashing these injury-prone but high-upside players, teams can outmaneuver competitors and improve their chances for success down the stretch.

Spencer Arrighetti, Blake Snell, and Zebby Matthews are among the notable pitchers facing injury challenges this season, causing concern for fantasy baseball managers. Arrighetti, a promising talent with a 3.04 ERA last season, is recovering from a broken thumb and is expected to return around the All-Star break in July. Snell, who has a history of injuries, is dealing with shoulder inflammation and might not be back until mid-July, making him a candidate for stashing on fantasy rosters. Finally, Matthews, who started strong this season, is sidelined with a moderate shoulder strain and has an uncertain return timeline, making him less favorable for keeper leagues.

The Minnesota Twins have recalled right-hander Simeon Woods Richardson to start against the Texas Rangers, necessitated by injuries to starters Pablo López and Zebby Matthews. Woods Richardson began the season with a 5.02 ERA over eight appearances and was sent down to Triple-A after struggling. López, the Twins' ace, is sidelined for two to three months with a Grade 2 shoulder strain, while Matthews is expected to return sooner after a moderate shoulder strain. This puts pressure on the Twins' pitching staff, which has been performing well, ranking ninth in MLB starting pitching with a 3.64 ERA.

The Minnesota Twins are facing mounting challenges with their pitching rotation as Zebby Matthews has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a shoulder strain, following a similar injury to Pablo López, who will miss two months. Matthews felt discomfort during a bullpen session and struggled in two starts, leading to an MRI that confirmed the strain. Manager Rocco Baldelli expressed concerns over Matthews' health and the team's depth, with Simeon Woods Richardson expected to take his place in the rotation.

Woods Richardson's recent performance in the minors has been shaky, which raises questions about the team's ability to maintain effectiveness on the mound. The Twins are under pressure to ensure their remaining starters, including Joe Ryan and Chris Paddack, perform at a high level to avoid a repeat of last season's struggles caused by injuries.