Notebook: A Blessing from Bob Nightengale, Happ on the Hot Stove

[David Youngs]

Tonight's notebook has an update on Nelson Cruz's market that will put your mind at ease, impressions from new Twin J.A. Happ's interview with Kris Atteberry and more.Nelson Cruz Unlikely to Head to Chicago

While the news of Andrelton Simmons put a smile on the face of Twins’ fans, one big question still remains.

 

What will happen with Nelson Cruz?

 

To the comfort of many Twins fans, there have been two strong signs that sparked this week indicating that Cruz is likely to stay with the Twins.

 

1. On Monday the MLBPA rejected an offer from the MLB for a universal DH and expanded postseason according to sources. While the door is still open for conversation, it’s unlikely that the DH will expand its horizons to the National League in 2021. In other words, Cruz’s market is just the American League.

 

2. Reports last week indicated that the White Sox had shown interest in Nelson Cruz. However, USA Today writer and MLB Network Insider Bob Nightengale tweeted Wednesday evening that the White Sox have shown no interest in the slugger.

 

While the move in itself is significant, the biggest takeaway is that the trade opens up a roster spot on the Mets for either Kris Bryant or highly coveted pitcher Trevor Bauer.

 

Not only will the Mets have an open rotation slot to fill, but an additional $5.2 million of payroll. Big things are happening in Queens, and it wouldn't be shocking if the reigning NL Cy Young winner joined former Twin Trevor May on the Mets.

 

(Virtual) TWINS FEST!

The pandemic has altered the world in a variety of ways, and while we’d love to gather at Target Field to celebrate Twins Fest, the safety of our community must come first.

 

But fear not!

 

While it may look different, Twins Fest 2021 will take place virtually this Saturday from 9 am-4 pm on all the Twins social media platforms as well as 830 WCCO Radio.

 

The event may look different but the purpose and excitement will stay as strong as ever, with the event featuring player interviews, an introduction to ‘Fun is Good’ with Mike Veeck, and many giveaways and auction items.

 

Most importantly, proceeds from the event will benefit the Minnesota Twins Community Fund in an effort to strengthen communities across Twins Territory. All viewers who donate $50 or more will receive a Twins/Caribou Coffee beanie (while supplies last) as a thank you for supporting the efforts of growing baseball and communities across the region.

 

Grab some popcorn, crack a beer, and tune in for an offseason program that will brighten your day!

 

More information on Twins Fest 2020 here.

 

More Offseason News from Twins Daily

2021 Winter Meltdown Pint Glasses On Sale Now

Twins Rotation Is Fine Without Another Big Addition

Offseason Live Replay: Twins To Sign Andrelton Simmons

 

Click here to view the article

[IndianaTwin]

I'm meeting some guys for breakfast on Saturday, but hoping to get home in time to see “Yeah-Yeah” (Luis Arraez), Timmy and Tommy (Tyler Duffey), “Squints” (Randy Dobnak), “Ham” (Mitch Garver), Benny “The Jet” (LaTroy Hawkins), Smalls (Thad Levine), Bertram (Devin Smeltzer) and Kenny DeNunez (Tommy Watkins) do a reading from The Sandlot. 

 

For having to settle for virtual, the lineup actually looks pretty good: 

https://www.mlb.com/twins/community/twinsfest