Why Minnesota Twins should be expected to operate as buyers when the MLB trade deadline rolls around…

It Would Be Surprising if the Minnesota Twins Traded for Offensive Help

When the MLB trade deadline arrives, it is expected that the Minnesota Twins will be looking to make some acquisitions. However, it is currently unclear what type of players they might add to their roster. At this point, finding space for a new offensive player in their lineup seems challenging.

Roster Challenges and Veteran Performance

Throughout this season, there have been times when manager Rocco Baldelli has wanted more production from his lineup. The team has faced difficulties due to key players like Royce Lewis, Carlos Correa, and Byron Buxton missing time. As a result, they have occasionally needed to find replacements for these top performers. Unfortunately, veterans such as Manuel Margot, Carlos Santana, and Kyle Farmer have not been able to fill these gaps effectively, though it was unrealistic to expect them to do so.

Outfield Complications

Currently, adding another offensive player to the team doesn’t seem feasible. For instance, Daulton Varsho might be a suitable candidate as a corner outfielder who excels in defense. However, incorporating him would raise questions about the future of Trevor Larnach. Max Kepler has been performing at a league-average level and has shown potential for greater production. Additionally, Matt Wallner is excelling in Triple-A, and DaShawn Keirsey Jr. could potentially perform just as well. Furthermore, Varsho is left-handed, which adds another layer of complexity to the decision.

This outfield situation also makes ESPN’s Jeff Passan’s suggestion of acquiring Mark Canha appear impractical.

Potential First Base Acquisitions

The Twins might consider adding a powerful hitter like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or Pete Alonso. Guerrero is likely available and could be a significant addition, especially given Santana’s recent strong performance at first base. Alex Kirilloff is not expected to play at this position, so Guerrero or Alonso could enhance the lineup. However, this raises another issue: Santana has been excellent defensively and has an impressive .910 OPS over his last 43 games. Reducing his playing time would not be beneficial.

Infield and Catcher Considerations

The left side of the infield is solid with Lewis and Correa, and they have immediate backup in Brooks Lee. José Miranda has had a strong year at third base, and Willi Castro has been the team’s standout player.

Replacing a veteran rotational player like Farmer or Christian Vázquez could improve the roster. However, it seems unlikely that the team’s ownership, which reduced the payroll by $30 million this season, would be willing to absorb the cost of their contracts. Farmer has a $7 million deal, and Vázquez has two years left on a $20 million contract.

Any new trade asset would likely be an upgrade over Farmer, but finding a straightforward replacement for the catcher position is more challenging. Promoting prospect Jair Camargo is an option, but it is a gamble. Alternatively, the team could consider trading with Tampa Bay for Ben Rortvedt, though this idea is more humorous than practical.

Focus on Pitching

Upon examining the Twins’ entire 26-man roster, it becomes clear that the most effective way to strengthen the team is by acquiring pitching talent. The team failed to invest in replacements for Sonny Gray and did not bolster the depth brought by Kenta Maeda. With Chris Paddack needing a reset and Louie Varland already demoted, the rotation is currently relying on Simeon Woods Richardson. Depending on David Festa is a significant risk, especially when considering the need for strong performance in October.

The bullpen, which was expected to be a strength, has not met expectations. Jhoan Durán has not performed at his usual level, and Brock Stewart is essentially out of the picture. Griffin Jax has managed to maintain stability, but veterans like Steven Okert, Caleb Thielbar, and others have been cycled through without much success.

Acquiring additional pitching, whether for the rotation, bullpen, or both, appears to be the most promising strategy for the Twins in the upcoming trade period. These players should be available, but the question remains: how aggressively will Minnesota pursue them?