Why Twins decided not to trade catcher Ryan Jeffers despite Yankees interest

May 17, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Twins designated hitter Ryan Jeffers (27) celebrates his solo home run against the Milwaukee Brewers during the fifth inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images Minnesota Twins catcher Ryan Jeffers received heavy trade interest before the Major League Baseball trade deadline. The Twins, who are just 1.5 games behind the Texas Rangers for the third and final Wild Card spot, decided not to trade Jeffers, who has 10 home runs with an .890 OPS in 58 games this season. One of the clubs rumored to have shown interest in Jeffers was the New York Yankees. They needed a right-handed hitting backstop, and Jeffers fit the bill. However, the Twins want to contend in 2026 and beyond. General manager Jeremy Zoll has his eyes set