In a setback for the Minnesota Twins, manager Rocco Baldelli announced that star pitcher Pablo López will likely be placed on the 15-day injured list. The Opening Day starter suffered a Grade One strain of his right hamstring during last night's game against the Kansas City Royals.

While a Grade One strain is on the milder side, Baldelli expressed optimism that López could return quickly from the IL. The injury occurred after López had pitched 4 2/3 innings and thrown 78 pitches, prompting an MRI that confirmed the mild strain. Unfortunately, this injury interrupts what had been an impressive start to his season, allowing only six runs (three earned) while notching 14 strikeouts across 16⅔ innings.

This will mark López’s first stint on the injured list since joining the Twins from Miami in an off-season trade for Luis Arraez. Known for his durability, he has made a full 32 starts each of the past three seasons, recording a commendable 3.87 ERA over 379⅓ innings in his time with Minnesota, ranking eighth in the MLB for innings pitched and tied for sixth in starts.

Amidst this challenge, the Twins showcased their resilience with a shutout victory over the Royals, courtesy of an outstanding performance from pitcher Joe Ryan. However, the team's record stands at a disappointing 4-8, with the rotation struggling as they enter play with the worst ERA in the league at 6.26.

With many games packed tightly in their schedule, the Twins are feeling the pressure. They’re currently in the midst of a grueling 12-day stretch without a break and need to quickly figure out who will fill López’s spot in the rotation for Sunday’s game against Detroit.

As the Twins navigate these choppy waters, all eyes will be on their pitching depth and how they cope without one of their key arms.