BREAKOUT: Why the Minnesota Twins WIN the Taj Bradley–Griffin Jax Trade & Joe Ryan’s Fate Is Sealed

Minnesota Twins set the stage for a franchise shakeup as Taj Bradley's electric start cements him as the team's top pitcher for 2026, making a Joe Ryan trade increasingly likely. With Griffin Jax struggling in Tampa Bay, did the Twins fleece the Rays in yet another blockbuster deal? C.J. Baumgartner explores the ripple effects of Bradley's dominance, breaks down the emergence of Mick Abel, and questions how this rotation overhaul could impact the broader youth movement.   The episode also covers the Twins’ acquisition of reliever Garrett Acton and what his addition means for a bullpen searching for stability. Plus, Baumgartner tackles the hot topic of long-term contract extensions, asking why superstar prospect Walker Jenkins isn’t likely to ink a deal like Konnor Griffin’s with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Are the Twins hesitant to spend, or is Scott Boras holding the cards? Don’t miss this sharp, fan-centered analysis of Minnesota’s post-opening week headlines.   Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms…   🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/podcasts/locked-on-twins/   Locked On MLB League-Wide: Every Team, Prospects & More 🎧 https://lockedonpodcasts.com/leagues/mlb/   00:00 Taj Bradley & Twins Rotation Discussion of Taj Bradley's breakout, the impact on the Twins' rotation, analysis of the Griffin Jax trade, and speculation on the inevitability of a Joe Ryan trade.   11:10 Garrett Acton Trade Analysis Breakdown of the Twins' acquisition of reliever Garrett Acton, his potential impact, scouting report, minor league options, and the ongoing bullpen construction and challenges.   20:35 Walker Jenkins Extension Debate Examination of early MLB contract extensions (Pirates/Griffin), why the Twins likely won't extend Walker Jenkins, organizational philosophy, Scott Boras factors, and team payroll considerations.   Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Turbo Tax Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. You can meet face-to-face with a real tax expert, and your documents get uploaded straight to your TurboTax app on the spot.     Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to find a store near you and book your appointment today.   Robinhood You’re no longer just a spectator. Play by play. You decide. Trade Every Play with Robinhood. Now available across the U.S. Download the Robinhood app now to begin. Futures and cleared swaps trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Event contracts are offered by Robinhood Derivatives, LLC., a registered futures commission merchant and swap firm.   Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast   Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.   FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. During the tournament FanDuel is offering $300 back in Bonus Bets every day for ten days. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)   Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: lockedontwins.supercast.com   #minnesotatwins #MLB #Twins Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.