The Minnesota Twins are expected to operate as buyers as the MLB trade deadline approaches. However, what they might add to their roster remains uncertain, and finding room for a new player in the lineup appears challenging at this point.
Throughout the season, Rocco Baldelli has sought more from his lineup. With key players like Royce Lewis, Carlos Correa, and Byron Buxton missing time due to injuries, the team has occasionally scrambled to fill gaps. Veterans Manuel Margot, Carlos Santana, and Kyle Farmer struggled to step up, which was not entirely unexpected.
Currently, incorporating an offensive addition seems complicated. While Daulton Varsho might be a suitable corner outfielder with a defensive focus, it raises questions about Trevor Larnach’s role. Max Kepler has performed at a league-average level and excelled at times, while Matt Wallner is thriving at Triple-A, and DaShawn Keirsey Jr. could potentially match that performance. Moreover, Varsho is left-handed, adding another layer to the decision.
The proposed acquisition of Mark Canha, as suggested by ESPN’s Jeff Passan, doesn’t align with the Twins’ outfield situation.
Considering additions like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or Pete Alonso could make sense. Guerrero, in particular, is reportedly available. Even with Santana excelling at first base, either player could strengthen the lineup. However, Santana has been outstanding defensively and boasts a .910 OPS over his last 43 games, making it crucial to increase his playing time rather than reduce it.
The left side of the infield is secure 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 one of Minnesota’s best players.
Improving the roster by replacing a veteran like Farmer or Christian Vázquez seems beneficial. However, cutting a $7 million deal for the second baseman or the remaining two years and $20 million for the catcher seems unlikely, especially with an ownership group that reduced payroll by $30 million this season.
While any available trade asset would likely upgrade over Farmer, there are limited straightforward catching options. Promoting prospect Jair Camargo and hoping for success is one possibility. Another option could be discussing a trade with Tampa Bay for Ben Rortvedt, although this seems more humorous than realistic.
Examining the entire Twins’ 26-man roster reveals that the most straightforward way to improve is by bolstering the pitching staff. The franchise has yet to find replacements for Sonny Gray and Kenta Maeda. With Chris Paddack needing a reset and Louie Varland already demoted, the rotation is currently relying on Simeon Woods Richardson. David Festa might be an option, but that’s a significant expectation for October.
The bullpen, expected to be strong, has seen Jhoan Durán underperform, and Brock Stewart remains absent. Griffin Jax has been consistent, but veterans like Steven Okert and Caleb Thielbar, among others, have been frequently rotated.
Acquiring a pitcher for the rotation, bullpen, or both appears to be the most effective way for the Twins to add talent in the coming weeks. These players should be available, but the question remains: how aggressively will Minnesota pursue them?
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