So, you're looking for a game. I get it. The itch for baseball usually starts right around the time the first real blizzard hits the Midwest and doesn't let up until October. If you’re asking do the twins play today, the short, cold answer is no. Not in the way you’re hoping. It is January 16, 2026, and Target Field is currently a very expensive, very beautiful snow globe.
But wait. While there isn't a box score to check or a radio broadcast to tune into this evening, the front office just dropped a massive piece of news that fundamentally changes how this team is going to look when they finally do take the field in March.
The Major Signing Making Waves Today
Instead of a game on the diamond, we got a "game-changer" in the front office. On Friday, January 16, 2026, the Minnesota Twins officially agreed to a two-year, $14 million contract with catcher Victor Caratini.
This isn't just some depth move. This is a strategic pivot. Caratini, a 32-year-old switch-hitter coming off a career-best offensive season with the Houston Astros, represents the latest chapter in what people are calling the "Astros-to-Twins pipeline." Think back to Christian Vázquez or Jason Castro—Minnesota loves that Houston pedigree behind the plate.
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Why does this matter right now? Because the team is preparing for a reality where Ryan Jeffers might not be around forever. Jeffers is staring down free agency after the 2026 season. By locking in Caratini today, the Twins have secured a veteran who can block pitches in the dirt, manage a young pitching staff, and—honestly—hit well enough to keep the DH spot warm when he's not catching.
When Do the Twins Play Next?
If "today" is strictly for roster moves, when do we actually see a pitch? You've got about a month of waiting left. The 2026 schedule is already etched in stone, and it looks like this:
- February 20, 2026: The annual exhibition opener against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers. It’s basically a tradition at this point.
- February 21, 2026: The Grapefruit League officially kicks off against the Boston Red Sox. This will be our first real look at the squad under new manager Derek Shelton.
- March 26, 2026: Opening Day. Mark your calendar. The Twins start the regular season on the road against the Baltimore Orioles. It’s the earliest Opening Day in the history of the franchise.
The reality of the 2026 season is that the Twins are starting on the road for the third straight year. They don't actually come home to Minneapolis for the Home Opener until Friday, April 3, 2026, against the Tampa Bay Rays.
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Do the Twins Play Today? Understanding the Offseason Grind
When fans ask do the twins play today in the dead of winter, they’re usually looking for a connection to the team. Even though there’s no live action, the "game" is happening in the negotiation rooms.
The Caratini signing is a signal. The Twins currently have a full 40-man roster. To make room for Victor, they’re going to have to cut someone or make a trade within the next few days. That’s the "game" today—the high-stakes chess match of roster management.
We also have Twinsfest right around the corner on January 23. If you're looking for something to do "today" that involves the team, checking for tickets to that event is your best bet. It’s the one time in January where the players actually show up in the Twin Cities to remind us that summer is eventually coming back.
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Key Dates for the 2026 Season
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Victor Caratini Signing | January 16, 2026 | Minneapolis (Roster Move) |
| Twinsfest | January 23, 2026 | Target Field |
| Spring Training Start | February 20, 2026 | Fort Myers, FL |
| Regular Season Opener | March 26, 2026 | Baltimore, MD |
| Home Opener | April 3, 2026 | Target Field |
Why the 2026 Schedule is Weird
There are some quirks this year that most people haven't noticed yet. For example, during a series against the Texas Rangers in June, there is a random Wednesday off-day. Why? Because the FIFA World Cup is being played at AT&T Stadium right next door, and the logistical nightmare of having both games at once was too much for the city of Arlington to handle.
We also have "Rivalry Weekend" returning from May 15-17. The Twins will be hosting the Milwaukee Brewers for that one. It’s always a circus when the fans from across the border drive over, but it makes for some of the best atmosphere you'll find at Target Field all year.
Actionable Insights for Twins Fans
Since there's no game today, here is how you can actually engage with the team right now:
- Check the 40-man roster: Keep an eye on the wire. With Caratini joining, someone is getting designated for assignment (DFA) or traded by Monday.
- Spring Training Travel: If you’re planning to go to Fort Myers, book now. Tickets for the February 20 opener against the Gophers are already hovering around $24 on secondary markets.
- Opening Day Prep: Since the March 26 opener is in Baltimore, check flight prices to BWI if you want to be there for the earliest start in team history.
The wait for actual baseball is long, but today's signing of Caratini proves the Twins aren't just sitting on their hands this winter. They’re building a bridge to the future, even if that bridge is currently covered in six inches of Minnesota snow.
Next Steps:
Go to the official Twins website or use an app like SeatGeek to secure your Spring Training tickets before the "Shelton era" hype drives prices up in February. Also, keep your notifications on for the corresponding roster move following the Caratini deal—it'll likely happen before the weekend is over.