Twins Welcome Back Royce Lewis and Willi Castro from Injured List
Minnesota Boosts Lineup with Key Infield Reinforcements
MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Twins received a much-needed boost to their roster on Monday, as the club officially reinstated Royce Lewis and Willi Castro from the 10-day injured list, adding both versatility and power back into their lineup as the season heats up.
Royce Lewis Returns After Spring Setback
For Royce Lewis, the wait is finally over.
The 25-year-old infielder, who has been sidelined since spring training with a left hamstring strain, rejoined the team after a six-game rehab stint with Triple-A St. Paul Saints. Although he posted modest numbers during rehab—hitting just .174 with one RBI—Lewis is expected to be a key piece moving forward.
Drafted first overall in 2017, Lewis has battled injuries throughout his young career but has shown flashes of star potential when healthy. In 152 major league games, he holds a .268 batting average, along with 33 home runs and 104 RBIs. His return adds much-needed depth and athleticism to the Twins’ infield.
Willi Castro Comes Back After Oblique Strain
Utility man Willi Castro also rejoins the roster after recovering from a right oblique strain that landed him on the IL on April 24. The 28-year-old had gotten off to a slow start at the plate this season, batting .227 with one home run and five RBIs across 18 games.
Still, Castro’s defensive flexibility and veteran presence are invaluable. A 2024 All-Star, Castro has proven himself over the years as a reliable contributor. Across 603 career games with the Detroit Tigers and Twins, he’s a .247 hitter with 46 home runs and 200 RBIs. Whether in the outfield, infield, or coming off the bench, Castro gives the Twins a dependable option in nearly any situation.
Roster Moves Make Room for Returning Players
To accommodate the returning duo, the Twins optioned infielder Edouard Julien and utility player Mickey Gasper to Triple-A St. Paul. Julien, in particular, has shown promise at times, but the move signals Minnesota’s intent to lean on experienced players as they navigate the early months of the season.
As the Twins aim to stay competitive in a tightly contested division, the returns of Lewis and Castro bring both optimism and balance to a roster that has been tested by early injuries. Fans and coaches alike will be watching closely to see how quickly both players can settle back into rhythm.
