Ryan Michael Kreidler Bio
Ryan Michael Kreidler is an American professional baseball utility player who currently plays for the Minnesota Twins of Major League Baseball. Born on November 12, 1997, Kreidler has established himself as a versatile defender capable of playing multiple positions across the diamond. He began his professional career after being drafted by the Detroit Tigers in 2019 and made his MLB debut with Detroit in September 2022. His ability to play various defensive positions has made him a valuable asset for organizations seeking roster flexibility.
Early Life and Background
Ryan Michael Kreidler grew up in Davis, California, where he attended Davis High School. During his high school career, he developed into a promising baseball player, attracting attention from Major League Baseball scouts. His strong performances in high school earned him recognition as a prospective professional player.
After completing high school, Kreidler enrolled at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he played college baseball for the UCLA Bruins. His collegiate career provided him with valuable experience against top-level competition, helping to refine his skills as a player. In the summer of 2018, Kreidler further developed his game by playing for the Wareham Gatemen of the Cape Cod Baseball League, a prestigious summer collegiate baseball league known for developing future professionals.
Path to Professional Baseball
Kreidler was initially drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 35th round of the 2016 Major League Baseball draft but chose not to sign, opting instead to continue his development at UCLA. This decision proved beneficial as he continued to grow as a player during his collegiate years. His patience and commitment to improvement paid off when he entered the 2019 draft.
In 2019, Kreidler was selected by the Detroit Tigers in the fourth round with the 112th overall pick. The Tigers saw potential in the young infielder and signed him to his first professional contract, beginning his journey in professional baseball. Kreidler made his professional debut with the Connecticut Tigers, where he appeared in 60 games and batted .232 with two home runs and 20 runs batted in.
Ryan Michael Kreidler Career
Minor League Development (2019–2022)
Following his debut season with the Connecticut Tigers in 2019, Kreidler continued his climb through the Tigers minor league system. The 2020 season was lost due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which cancelled the minor league season. Kreidler used this time to stay prepared for his return to competition.
In 2021, Kreidler began the season with the Erie SeaWolves before earning a promotion to the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens. His performance that year was exceptional, as he combined to slash .270/.349/.454 with 22 home runs, 58 runs batted in, and 15 stolen bases across 129 games between both teams. This strong showing put him on the radar for a potential major league call-up.
Detroit Tigers Breakthrough (2022–2025)
Kreidler was selected to the Detroit Tigers 40-man roster and promoted to the majors on September 1, 2022. He made his major league debut shortly thereafter, recording his first MLB hit on September 3 against the Kansas City Royals. His first major league home run came on September 7, a dramatic game-winning shot against the Los Angeles Angels that broke a 4-4 tie in the top of the ninth inning off pitcher José Quijada. This moment marked his arrival at the highest level of professional baseball.
In 2023, Kreidler earned a spot on Detroit Opening Day roster and started at third base in the season opener. However, he was optioned back to Triple-A on April 15 after hitting just .111 in 11 games. He was later placed on the minor league injured list with knee soreness and underwent core-muscle surgery on June 14, which ended his season early.
The 2024 season saw Kreidler begin with Triple-A Toledo before receiving another opportunity with Detroit. He underwent surgery to repair a fractured right index finger on April 11, 2024. In 35 appearances for the Tigers that season, he struggled at the plate, slashing .119/.200/.169 with one home run, two RBI, and five stolen bases.
Kreidler made Detroit Opening Day roster again in 2025 and was used primarily as a center fielder due to injuries at that position. After being optioned to Triple-A Toledo on April 21 following early-season struggles, he was designated for assignment by the Tigers on August 22 following the promotion of Drew Sommers. He was claimed off waivers by the Pittsburgh Pirates on August 24.
Minnesota Twins Era (2025–Present)
Kreidler joined the Minnesota Twins after being claimed off waivers on October 15, 2025. He was optioned to the Triple-A St. Paul Saints to begin the 2026 season, where he continued to refine his game while awaiting his next major league opportunity. He received his call to the majors on April 11, 2026, following an injury to Royce Lewis. Kreidler wears jersey number 5 for the Twins.
Playing Style and Strengths
Kreidler is known for his defensive versatility, capable of playing multiple positions across the infield and outfield. His ability to provide quality defense at various spots gives his team roster flexibility and the option to use him in different matchup situations. Offensively, he has shown power potential in the minor leagues, with his 22-home-run season in 2021 demonstrating his ability to drive the ball.
Notable Events and Milestones
The most memorable moment of Kreidler early MLB career came on September 7, 2022, when he hit his first major league home run as a walk-off in the top of the ninth inning against the Los Angeles Angels. This game-winning blast provided a dramatic introduction to major league baseball and gave fans a glimpse of his ability to deliver in clutch situations.
Ryan Michael Kreidler Career Statistics
Through June 28, 2026, Kreidler has compiled modest major league numbers across his time with the Detroit Tigers and Minnesota Twins. His MLB statistics reflect the challenges of transitioning to the highest level of competition while also showing glimpses of his potential.
Major League Highlights
His most productive stretch came during his initial call-up with Detroit in 2022, when he homered in his second week at the major league level. The Tigers used him at multiple positions during his time with the organization, evaluating his versatility for potential long-term roles.
Minor League Achievements
Kreidler most impressive offensive numbers came during the 2021 season in the Tigers minor league system, when he hit 22 home runs with 58 RBI while stealing 15 bases between Double-A Erie and Triple-A Toledo. His .270 batting average that season represented strong performance at the upper levels of the minors.
| Level | Games | Batting Average | Home Runs | RBI |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLB (Career) | See MLB Stats | .189 | 7 | 29 |
| Minor League (2021) | 129 | .270 | 22 | 58 |
Ryan Michael Kreidler Family
Family Background
Specific details about Kreidler family background are not extensively documented in available sources. As a California native who attended Davis High School and played at UCLA, he represents the development pathway common among many professional baseball players who come from strong amateur baseball programs.
Personal Life
Kreidler maintains an active presence on social media, connecting with fans through his Twitter account. He continues to work toward establishing himself as a reliable major league player following his journey through the Tigers organization and into the Twins system.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season presented challenges for Kreidler as he navigated his role with the Detroit Tigers organization. Beginning the year on the Opening Day roster, he was primarily used as a center fielder due to injuries at that position, showcasing his defensive versatility. However, after struggling at the plate early in the season, he was optioned to Triple-A Toledo on April 21. The Tigers designated him for assignment on August 22, leading to his claim by the Pittsburgh Pirates two days later. Kreidler appeared in 15 games for Triple-A Indianapolis, batting .163 with one home run and five stolen bases before being designated again following the acquisition of Will Robertson. His claim by the Minnesota Twins on October 15 provided a fresh opportunity with a new organization as he looked to restart his major league career.