Roster Trimming

[Jeff K]

Without knowing the game plan, I would drop the following players regardless:

Cabrera, Tonkin, Gasper, Julien, Miranda, Keirsey, Outman.  None of these guys are better than AAAA, if that.

The Twins need to drop more than the above.  Depending upon the plan, you could consider the following players:

Hatch, Misiewicz, Topa, Clemens, Fitzgerald and McCusker.  I would not lose any sleep losing these guys.  Clemens or Fitzgerald are ok at the VERY end of the bench.  But the Twins must upgrade first base.  Fitzgerald lasts until there are better back up options at SS.  When healthy, Topa wasn't that bad which is probably the bar the Twins have for the bullpen.

 

[Riverbrian]

21 minutes ago, LA VIkes Fan said:

Talk about a lose/lose trade - Stewart lasted 3.2 innings in LA, went on the IL, and is now having off season shoulder debridement surgery. His 37.2 IP in 2025 is the most he's pitched since 2017. C'mon guys, we know Stewart - 25-30 innings and his arm falls off. I live in LA and the word here is that the Dodgers got fleeced because they're desperate for BP help and Outman can return to his 2023 form. Both fan bases are smoking crack IMHO. I'll bet neither one is on a 40-man roster come December and it wouldn't surprise me if both go back to their old teams. Hey, we traded a breaking down reliever for a guy trying to reclaim lost form. Didn't work. Worth a shot. 

Who knows on Outman. He certainly didn't make the most of these two months but I do think it's important that everyone strongly considers that he was in the Dodgers Organization. 

It's an important consideration because the Dodgers spent a lot of money on their roster. He's not going to get a lot of time to work out major league kinks with a team like the Dodgers. While he clearly struggled in his 150 AB's a year in Los Angeles 2023, 2024 and 2025. He did not struggle at Oklahoma City. 

In a nutshell... The Dodgers spew out a higher level of waste. The guy has power, speed and defense. If the Twins can turn him around in 2026. They will win this trade and win it by a large large large margin. If they can't... he will be sent through waivers by July because we have outfielders coming and he is a minimum investment.    

[Schmoeman5]

3 hours ago, tony&rodney said:

This is a fan view that could make sense. However, one must accept that people will evaluate  players based on many different criteria. You asked a question and my answer is solely based on what I would choose given my experience. Instead of going position by position and not favoring a long post, I will just say that I favor Naylor and Hedges at catcher, Manzardo at 1B, Rochio at 2B, Ramirez at 3B, Arias at SS, Kwan in LF, and Valera in RF. I would choose Buxton for CF. 

Naturally, others will have their own thoughts. I'm picking the players between these two teams that give my pitchers the best shot at winning games.

I'm not disagreeing. Just pointing out that the Guardians lineup and bench is not clearly superior and that the Twins aren't that far off. Changes need to be made. But I don't believe they're in complete disarray.  

[old nurse]

17 hours ago, Riverbrian said:

You are fine without the fancy stuff. The deeper you dive into stats... the more it equalizes. Good stats with bad stats mix together. More data typically leads to more average. Of course... if you do run into that player with minimum bad stuff. There is no debate with those players. You don't have to look at the stats to know that Aaron Judge is pretty good. 

I think you are right. The Twins have access to data that tells them who is most likely to succeed and they use that data to provide and limit opportunity. It makes sense... but... the thing that I can never get past. They are wrong often... and I mean often. Not just the Twins... All teams. The information, is maybe 50% (making up a number) correct and they deploy it like it's 100%. 

And past data is always past. Development isn't linear. Coaches... have a reason to get up in the morning and report to work... to coach... to improve... to make better... that's why they are paid. Austin Martin doesn't have to be frozen in time at age 25 with no hope. Can't hit the curve ball on the outside corner. Let's face some and go over it. 

This is better than... you can't deal with the curve ball... OK... you sit here on the bench... I'll pour the cement over you and we will lock this problem in. 

Rocco gave Martin consistent AB and he appears to have made the adjustments. Outman got the AB and appears to not adjusted. There are only two OF spots at a time to work on development as long as Buxton is healthy. The could have just stuck Julian at 1b every game to make his future clearer. They really had nothing to lose.

 

In last year’s collapse Festa and Mathew’s were never yanked for bad performances, They and SWR always got their 80 pitches in to learn. It is debatable if they have learned. It seems like there are glimmers there. Looking at the makeshift bullpen, everybody got their turn in to see what was there. The initial waiver claim people were eventually scrapped. Funderburk, Topa and Sands got their chances at high leverage situations. The surprise was Funderburk was the one that thrived,  The team does work on developing the pitchers.  

[Mahoning]

I'm amazed at how many people seem to favor keeping James Outman. He seems like a good guy and all, but he hit about .130 and struck out in half his at-bats. In what situation do you want to see him come to the plate? The only answer can be NEVER! As for Larnach, third on the team in RBI and second in hits (126) only three behind Buxton. Does anyone really believe that, say, Roden is better than that? I'd sure rather have Larnach coming up in a tough situation than Wallner (whiff), Julien (K looking), Jeffers (whiff), and on and on. They should re-sign Vazquez for, say $2 million because he is a far better reciever than Pereda. And we sure never want to see the unfortunate Genesis Cabrera -- one homer per inning -- again. The roster does not look promising. What free agent who wasn't desperate for work would want to come here?

[old nurse]

6 minutes ago, Mahoning said:

I'm amazed at how many people seem to favor keeping James Outman. He seems like a good guy and all, but he hit about .130 and struck out in half his at-bats. In what situation do you want to see him come to the plate? The only answer can be NEVER! As for Larnach, third on the team in RBI and second in hits (126) only three behind Buxton. Does anyone really believe that, say, Roden is better than that? I'd sure rather have Larnach coming up in a tough situation than Wallner (whiff), Julien (K looking), Jeffers (whiff), and on and on. They should re-sign Vazquez for, say $2 million because he is a far better reciever than Pereda. And we sure never want to see the unfortunate Genesis Cabrera -- one homer per inning -- again. The roster does not look promising. What free agent who wasn't desperate for work would want to come here?

On Larnach, counting stats from playing the more than others are not the correct way to look at him. He has a serviceable OPS against RH pitching. Leverage index numbers may suggest a better production out of Larnach would be a possible improvement. I don’t know if many of the bloggers here would dive that deep or know what is good or bad for those numbers.  

People here think they will keep Outman because he was traded for.  When the dust settled and they had a better idea of what they traded for, they fired most of the scouts. Don’t bet on Outman or Roden being in a Twins uniform next season 

Pereda was sent back down when Vasquez got healthy. Others remained that could have been sent down. Don’t bet on Pereda being in a Twins uniform next year except in case of injury 

[Riverbrian]

37 minutes ago, old nurse said:

There are only two OF spots at a time to work on development as long as Buxton is healthy.

We are going to disagree on this point. I believe it is not only possible to roster 5 outfielders and provide enough playing time for all. I also believe it is necessary to do so. 

The rest of your post is good food for thought. Martin had a great finish to the year. Many people were willing to toss him aside after 2024. Not as many are willing to toss him aside now. What happens in 2026? Let's find out. 

You are right that Funderburk stepped up. Players will both surprise and disappoint with opportunity. 

[old nurse]

6 minutes ago, Riverbrian said:

We are going to disagree on this point. I believe it is not only possible to roster 5 outfielders and provide enough playing time for all. I also believe it is necessary to do so. 

The rest of your post is good food for thought. Martin had a great finish to the year. Many people were willing to toss him aside after 2024. Not as many are willing to toss him aside now. What happens in 2026? Let's find out. 

You are right that Funderburk stepped up. Players will both surprise and disappoint with opportunity. 

Through a regular season yes on 4-5 outfielders. For a month and a half or less with the uncertainty of both of them as starters, they need to be everyday starters to see with a bit of a grind.  

[RpR]

58 minutes ago, old nurse said:

Rocco gave Martin consistent AB and he appears to have made the adjustments. Outman got the AB and appears to not adjusted. There are only two OF spots at a time to work on development as long as Buxton is healthy. The could have just stuck Julian at 1b every game to make his future clearer. They really had nothing to lose.

 

In last year’s collapse Festa and Mathew’s were never yanked for bad performances, They and SWR always got their 80 pitches in to learn. It is debatable if they have learned. It seems like there are glimmers there. Looking at the makeshift bullpen, everybody got their turn in to see what was there. The initial waiver claim people were eventually scrapped. Funderburk, Topa and Sands got their chances at high leverage situations. The surprise was Funderburk was the one that thrived,  The team does work on developing the pitchers.  

Julien should go away Far, Far away, forever.

[Riverbrian]

4 hours ago, old nurse said:

Through a regular season yes on 4-5 outfielders. For a month and a half or less with the uncertainty of both of them as starters, they need to be everyday starters to see with a bit of a grind.  

What I would like to see... Is for the players to compete to the trade deadline. Reward more playing time to those who are earning and less to those who are not but I'd like to see full on competition up to the deadline. Send players down and call up players as needed but full on competition... No more pre-determination. Limit the platooning to allow for establishing needs after the deadline. You can add your right handed hand cuff at the trade deadline if progress isn't made.  

At that deadline... if in contention... I'd like them to identify the holes... patch them up and then settle into a more consistent lineup but there still had to be competition because injuries will change the equation and you need a roster full of talent. 

Once the playoffs start... You got your guys. They let you know who they are through performance. You got the guys who earned it. Lock in and play ball... oh and platoon to your hearts content in the playoffs... if it turns out that someone just can't hit the same hand as established through the course of the season... OK... You can let him watch Skubal pitch to his teammates.    

[tony&rodney]

1 hour ago, Schmoeman5 said:

I'm not disagreeing. Just pointing out that the Guardians lineup and bench is not clearly superior and that the Twins aren't that far off. Changes need to be made. But I don't believe they're in complete disarray.  

MLB did not have a team with a .600 winning percentage and only the White Sox and Rockies finished with a record below .400. MLB is very competitive and there is a pretty fine line between teams. Nevertheless, there are differences. One clear and rather outstanding difference between the Guardians and Twins is in their defense. There are more than a few people who do not believe defense is that important. That is not a conversation that I can get involved in because I'm a pitch and catch guy, but I do accept that others don't see defense as important. One of those guys in in charge of the Twins.

As far as change, I believe 4-7 trades could alter the course of the team's future. In any event, it might be a couple of years before the Twins are a playoff team again.

[DocBauer]

IMO, the initial cuts are easy:

Cabrera, Hatch, Misiewicz, and Tonkin are gone from the pitching side. A couple of them might be worth a MILB deal and an invite. 

Gasper, Pereda, Miranda, Julien, Keirsey, McCusker, and Outman are all gone.

That's 11 open spots for additions. 

A few random thoughts: It's time to move on from Miranda and Julien unless either wants back on a MILB deal. They don't like or believe in McCusker, even when the OF has been depleted. Keirsey may not have been given a fair chance to prove one way or another he's a ML player. But they've made up their mind.

Regarding Outman directly, I GET having just traded for him. But unless they want him as a temporary fill-in in the same defensive replacement and PR bench warming spot Keirsey had this past season, I think he should be gone. His OPS the past 30 days is .542. The past 15 days it was .393. Over the last week it was .346. And this is with regular playing time. If he wants to come back on a MILB, or perhaps the younger Keirsey instead, then that's fine. But he simply can't hit at all. There's not another late 20's CF/OF option out there on a MILB deal as "good" instead of wasting a 40 man spot?

SURPRISE KEEPS: I'm holding on to veteran Fitzgerald for a solid glove and occasional pop as the primary backup SS and utility player unless there's an inexpensive veteran they can bring in that's better/more proven.

At only $2M and not totally stinking I'm probably keeping Topa for now.

REGARDING LARNACH: I've always said I kinda like him, even though he's never turned out to be the player hoped for. I think his .759 career OPS against RHP has value. I've been assuming he's gone due to an expected $5M cost, AND because the Twins are looking at Buxton, Wallner, Martin, Roden, Rodriguez, Jenkins, Gonzalez, and even Fedko as OF options for 2026. Clemens as a role player might even figure in somewhere...possibly. (he's got to make the roster first and I'd like to aim higher). 

The Twins might just keep him. I'm just betting they won't. Personally, I'd package him with a prospect in the late teens, early 20's, and see if I might be able to grab someone's #4 or #5 pen arm. Not saying they can, but there might be a few teams that could really use a LH DH/OF with that career .759 OPS for a questionable lineup and have enough pitching to be able to afford their #4-5 pen arm.

That's just me clearing out 11 spots on the 40 man for adds, with 3 question marks in Topa, Fitzgerald, and Larnach on hand for now.

[yeahyabetcha]

8 hours ago, MinnInPa said:

Outman does not belong in MLB...unless that team wants to remain watching playoffs every October

But yet if the trade had never happened he would be in playoffs right now……

[Greglw3]

On 9/28/2025 at 7:09 PM, Riverbrian said:

If they gave up Brock Stewart just to rent Outman for 2 months in a lost season... knowing he is out of options.  

That would be a little... umm... questionable. 

I gotta believe that Outman has a 40 and 26 man roster spot waiting for him. 

 

I rooted for Outman like nobody’s business but he just didn’t hit.

I think he has to be cut loose even though he showed flashes of defense, speed and power but he hit below .200.

Kody Clemens hit .215 and Wallner .204 and was historically inept in driving in runs.

For Outman, but all these guys, a 26 man roster spot over Jenkins, G. Gonzalez (possibly the Twins best hitting prospect), Fedko, Emmanuel Rodriguez, Hendry Mendez, Kaelen Culpepper, Allen Roden or a possible traded-for hitter that hits .280-.290 isn’t warranted IMO. I even still think Eddie Julien has a chance. Maybe somewhere else.

I think the Twins offense has been a chronic limiting factor for most of the last 5 years with way too many sub .200 hitters and low .200s hitters. I just don’t think you can win that way.. I think the pitching with Lopez, Ryan, Woods Richardson, Abel, Taj Bradley, Andrew Morris is way ahead of the offense which is a five alarm fire.

The 8 hitting prospects I named are very exciting, IMO, and I would try as many of them as necessary around Buxton. I think the risk at this critical juncture in Twins history with Larnach and Wallner’s mediocrity and ineptitude respectively is not worth it.

I could possibly see retaining Outman at AAA and if he could fight his way back and excel, great.

[DocBauer]

On 10/1/2025 at 12:18 PM, bunsen82 said:

Iglesias is 8 million, Maton is 7 million, Williams is 5.7 million.  

Mid to low tier - Coulombe 4 million, 

I think they may be willing to spend $10 to $12 million on a bullpen.   

Bullpen -  Williams (closer 5.7 million, if back is healed),  Sands, Traded reliever, Coulombe, Funderburk, Topa, Laweryson, converted starter.   

That is $10 million and using some prospect capital.  you have to realize that Falvey is feeling the hot seat.  He is not just going to put a subpar bullpen out there to tank a season that determines whether he will continue in his position or not.   Iglesias or Maton give you a higher floor with a little more money spent.   Falvey is in current preservation mode now,  but will be for next year as well.  My guess is he puts the best roster out there he possibly can.  

I appreciate your optimism. Blessing or curse, I also remain an eternal optimist in most things in life, including my confounding Twins.

The Twins seldom spent beyond $4-5M for a BP arm due to the volital nature of the position. And if you're going to shave cost somewhere, that is the spot to do it. I do believe there's at least some sound logic to that approach.

As I've stated previously in different threads, I believe the Twins aren't going to cut. And there's no reason to go over that again. I've argued since was traded a 1yr deal to bring Coulombe back for $3 or $3.5 just makes too much sense not to. After that, I thought maybe 2 more FA on ML deals. OBVIOUSLY they sign a few fliers on MILB deals to see what happens. But another $6-8M still fits in to a limited payroll. And I've often stated, again, they should be looking for "rebound" guys looking to "get right" on 1yr deals.

That might be where Williams comes in to play. I don't know if they'd go $5.7. But for 1yr? Maybe. As a bridge for a young arm like Festa growing in to the role? I can see that. Makes a lot of sense. You still have room for another $2-3M for someone like a Clippard, or Romo type. Maybe slightly better if you don't keep Topa at $2M? Regardless, you're only spending about $12M on 3 pen FA all on 1yr deals. This provides a bridge for various arms on hand, prospects, and SP converts to begin to establish themselves and gain experience in the reliever role, while some will obviously be counted on to contribute immediately. 

Remember gang, there is no such thing as a bad 1yr contract. Lol. Of course there is, but you get the point.

So a POSSIBLE 2026 pen begins with:

Williams, Festa, FA, Sands, Funderburk, Ohl, Coulombe, Topa.

How good is that pen? Hard to say. Williams and Festa healthy, Sands close to his 2024 form and how he looked for about 6 of the last 8 weeks in 2025, Coulombe still doing his 1 out or 1 inning, Funderburk really and truly growing and carrying that over to next season, the top 6 might actually be solid.

I'm 50/50 on Topa being kept. But I actually like Ohl quite a bit. His FB now sits around 94-95 and he has a hell of a change, and has always had good control.

Granted, there's some IF's in there. I'm not denying that. No predictions of greatness here, only hoping for some goodness. 

Who backs up this bunch? Adams, who's got OK stuff but nothing great. But is a potential Sands or Jax now that he's converted to the pen? Laweryson has paid his dues. Is he ready for more? It looks like Raya's move to the pen might be permanent. Can he take all the "stuff" we've read about and translate it to 1 IP? How about Lewis throwing as hard and well as he can and unleash that knuckleball with a couple of strikes? MacLeod had a really good season at AA but was very inconsistent in his AAA debut. Does he respond in 2026?

In AA, LH Bragg and RH Paredes had great seasons. Both appear ready for AAA in 2026. Logan Whitaker blew away the competition at CR and Wichita. How soon until he's ready for AAA? Does a seemingly strong finish to 2025 get Jaylin Nowlin up to AAA now?

And it's not hard to believe the Twins won't find another Thielbar, Stewart, Wisler type on a MILB invite. Their scouts seem to find one most every year.

Again, a lot of IF's. I'm not denying that. And I'm not saying a playoff caliber pen can be built overnight. But can a decent, solid pen be built with a couple of adds, players on hand, and some talented young arms converting? I believe it can happen. And it's possible said pen might be better the 2nd half when some of the younger, converted arms are more "ready".

Going abstract? What if Matthews turns the corner and is pitching great. Sim and Bradley don't have options any longer. If nobody is actually injured in the rotation, does one of them suddenly move to the pen for even more talent and depth?

Look, I'm not blowing smoke up anyone's backside here. I may be an optimist, but I'm neither naive nor an  idiot.  I'm only saying a couple smart 1yr investments, some on hand arms, some solid conversions to the pen...some of which have already taken place...maybe a surprise flier signing...I am only stating that there is a legitimate path to build a decent, competent pen that might augment a potentially really good rotation to carry the 2026 team to a .500 or so record.

I'm not discussing the lineup right now, that's a different discussion. I'm just talking about STEP 1 in a pen re-build that might not be so crazy.

[bunsen82]

9 hours ago, yeahyabetcha said:

But yet if the trade had never happened he would be in playoffs right now……

No we wouldn't he would still be in the minor leagues.  

[yeahyabetcha]

36 minutes ago, bunsen82 said:

No we wouldn't he would still be in the minor leagues.  

Maybe, maybe not.   Regardless, if an article I read was factual, if the Dodgers win the series, he gets a ring.  
 

 

[Major League Ready]

On 9/29/2025 at 6:12 AM, Riverbrian said:

We have cleared a lot of money off the books so his Arb 2 money is not taxing the budget. 

We have a lot of space to fill... before you even consider Larnach... Lots of things to fix before you get to Larnach. 

And when you consider Larnach. 

He's a good hitter.

We will need some good hitters.  

I view the $$$ part secondary.  The question is what are we trying to accomplish.  Are we just trying to put the best team on the field in 2026 or are we trying to build a contender.  IMO, we can't do both.  There are far too many holes to fill and far too big a gap between players like Larnach and what it takes to be a real contender.  The Twins are not contending in 2026.

Larnach would take a roster spot that could be used to audition players that could be part of a contender for multiple years.  This starts with Martin who was better than Larnach this year at every aspect of the game.  If we want to get a way from slow guys that can't run the bases or play defense, we need to make these roster decisions.  Speaking of more all-around players.  They also need to give Roden a shot and they probably will give Outman a shot as well.

Then you have the potential real upgrades in the form of Jenkins and GG on the doorstep.  I might even prefer giving Fedko a chance because at least we know he can run and play defense.  We will have to invest playing time in guys who have the potential to take us to the next level.  We can't complain about lack of playoff success if we are unwilling to do what it takes to get there.

[Riverbrian]

27 minutes ago, Major League Ready said:

I view the $$$ part secondary.  The question is what are we trying to accomplish.  Are we just trying to put the best team on the field in 2026 or are we trying to build a contender.  IMO, we can't do both.  There are far too many holes to fill and far too big a gap between players like Larnach and what it takes to be a real contender.  The Twins are not contending in 2026.

Larnach would take a roster spot that could be used to audition players that could be part of a contender for multiple years.  This starts with Martin who was better than Larnach this year at every aspect of the game.  If we want to get a way from slow guys that can't run the bases or play defense, we need to make these roster decisions.  Speaking of more all-around players.  They also need to give Roden a shot and they probably will give Outman a shot as well.

Then you have the potential real upgrades in the form of Jenkins and GG on the doorstep.  I might even prefer giving Fedko a chance because at least we know he can run and play defense.  We will have to invest playing time in guys who have the potential to take us to the next level.  We can't complain about lack of playoff success if we are unwilling to do what it takes to get there.

I also view the $$$ part secondary. When you are pressed up against the budget it becomes much more primary-ish. We shouldn't be pressed up against that budget for 2026. Who knows maybe... that line got lowered significantly but significant money got moved between Correa and the arb raises that Duran and Jax were going to get... space should have been created.     

I also view it the same regarding too many holes to fill. And for that reason... I'm hesitant to part with Larnach. We both have the same assessment but different answers to the same problem.  

I know that I have been a broken record on the necessity of more pre-arb players and I realize that Trevor is not pre-arb but Trevor is also not expiring. Next year this conversation is different for me with an expiring contract and a larger arb number.  

The part that I'm objecting to in regards to Trevor is the suggestion by many around these parts is to not offer arbitration.

I expect the Twins to trade an OF... Perhaps that is Trevor. I used Cleveland as an example. They would probably love to acquire Larnach. They got a lot of decent bullpen arms that they could offer in return. They committed over 3,000 AB's to players with OPS .650 or lower. Larnach's OPS against right handers would be a significant upgrade for them. 

No hurry on Larnach... He can be a trade deadline decision. If he has a good year and the team isn't in contention. He could be dealt. If he has a bad year... he can then be released if there is no interest in him. Cleveland is good at that sort of thing. They couldn't move Santana... they released him.  

As for the OF space. You and I see things differently. I don't see Martin or Larnach as an either or. I'd like to see 5 outfielders on the roster coming out of camp and I want to see all 5 competing with each other. I offer no predictions on who will be showing major league talent in 2026 including Larnach. There is more than enough playing time for all to determine winners.

Now... Buxton, Larnach, Wallner, Martin, Outman and Roden. That's 6... so I do expect a trade or someone is going to pick up a first base glove over the winter. On the other hand... Roden also has options available as does Erod and anybody added to the 40 man. 

Anyway... my first step is removing the players that the Twins are not going to provide opportunity to. Get them off the 40. After that process is done. The Twins will have their hands full just filling that vast amount of space before they release Larnach. 

 

    

 

 

 

[Major League Ready]

56 minutes ago, Riverbrian said:

I also view the $$$ part secondary. When you are pressed up against the budget it becomes much more primary-ish. We shouldn't be pressed up against that budget for 2026. Who knows maybe... that line got lowered significantly but significant money got moved between Correa and the arb raises that Duran and Jax were going to get... space should have been created.     

I also view it the same regarding too many holes to fill. And for that reason... I'm hesitant to part with Larnach. We both have the same assessment but different answers to the same problem.  

I know that I have been a broken record on the necessity of more pre-arb players and I realize that Trevor is not pre-arb but Trevor is also not expiring. Next year this conversation is different for me with an expiring contract and a larger arb number.  

The part that I'm objecting to in regards to Trevor is the suggestion by many around these parts is to not offer arbitration.

I expect the Twins to trade an OF... Perhaps that is Trevor. I used Cleveland as an example. They would probably love to acquire Larnach. They got a lot of decent bullpen arms that they could offer in return. They committed over 3,000 AB's to players with OPS .650 or lower. Larnach's OPS against right handers would be a significant upgrade for them. 

No hurry on Larnach... He can be a trade deadline decision. If he has a good year and the team isn't in contention. He could be dealt. If he has a bad year... he can then be released if there is no interest in him. Cleveland is good at that sort of thing. They couldn't move Santana... they released him.  

As for the OF space. You and I see things differently. I don't see Martin or Larnach as an either or. I'd like to see 5 outfielders on the roster coming out of camp and I want to see all 5 competing with each other. I offer no predictions on who will be showing major league talent in 2026 including Larnach. There is more than enough playing time for all to determine winners.

Now... Buxton, Larnach, Wallner, Martin, Outman and Roden. That's 6... so I do expect a trade or someone is going to pick up a first base glove over the winter. On the other hand... Roden also has options available as does Erod and anybody added to the 40 man. 

Anyway... my first step is removing the players that the Twins are not going to provide opportunity to. Get them off the 40. After that process is done. The Twins will have their hands full just filling that vast amount of space before they release Larnach. 

I agree they should be able to get something in trade for Larnach and therefore should tender an offer.  Also agree Martin and Larnach are not necessarily an either or.  However, if this team is to be successful, I don't see a path where Larnach has a role.  Success means that Jenkins has taken one spot and one of Martin / GG / Roden or even Rosario/Fedko coming up and all of them providing better offence, defense and base running than we are getting from Larnach.

[Riverbrian]

1 hour ago, Major League Ready said:

I agree they should be able to get something in trade for Larnach and therefore should tender an offer.  Also agree Martin and Larnach are not necessarily an either or.  However, if this team is to be successful, I don't see a path where Larnach has a role.  Success means that Jenkins has taken one spot and one of Martin / GG / Roden or even Rosario/Fedko coming up and all of them providing better offence, defense and base running than we are getting from Larnach.

In my opinion... GM's need to prepare for success and failure. 

I'm with you... 2026 certainly has the potential of being a rough year. If I had to place a bet. I'd bet on a rough year.

No matter how you and I feel... or even how the front office feels deep down inside... you still have to prepare for success.

If they don't trade Ryan or Lopez... That starting pitching staff could be pretty good... it is certainly deep with potential.

I personally don't believe that we traded any offensive game changers at the deadline and I include Correa when I say that. In other words... I think the offensive ground could be made up quickly. We are not talking about high bars to clear. 

The bullpen? Well... Yeah... they really did a number on the pen and it is probably the main reason that I doubt a fun 2026 is possible... but the bullpen is also one of the easiest things to rebuild... it doesn't have to be the best bullpen in baseball... it just needs to be competitive... not a nightmare like it is now.

So you got to prepare for success. If some things click... Our chances for success are improved with Trevor helping out... of course... that is my opinion... many here seem to disagree with that opinion. 

Bottom Line: We don't need to rush Trevor out the door. If he has a good year... he can be a deadline decision. 

For everyone looking at his 100 OPS+. His OPS was going to come down when lefties are added to his repertoire. With more exposure... he can get that OPS against lefties .650 and I think he has the potential to increase his OPS against Righties and all of sudden you got an .800 OPS guy playing for Cleveland against us... and we can all look back and say... Yeah... We probably shouldn't have rushed him out the door.  

He's one of our best returning hitters. We may need more than that but right now... we got way too many players not hitting at his level to deal with first. 

Trevor has a job on my team. 

 

[jaimedude]

When do they announce the actual roster cuts, off the 40 man roster and the non-tendered players? 

[Chembry]

20 minutes ago, jaimedude said:

When do they announce the actual roster cuts, off the 40 man roster and the non-tendered players? 

I believe the 40-man deadline is November 18th.  

I don't think the non-tender/arbitration deadline is set yet, as far as I can tell.  Last year it was November 22, 2024.  I imagine it will be a similar date this year. 

[stringer bell]

7 hours ago, jaimedude said:

When do they announce the actual roster cuts, off the 40 man roster and the non-tendered players? 

There are several different situations in play. The Twins can DFA players at any time to take them off the 40-man roster but that usually comes after those that can declare free agency. The non-tender deadline is in November (it was 11/22 in 2024) that is when players eligible for arbitration are either offered a contract or non-tendered, making them free agents. Players with expired contracts and more than six years of major league service can declare free agency a couple days after the completion of the World Series. 

[jorgenswest]

On 9/30/2025 at 3:03 PM, DJL44 said:

Pitchers: Connor Prielipp, Andrew Morris, Kendry Rojas, CJ Culpepper (4)

Position players: Gabriel Gonzalez, Hendry Mendez, Kalai Rosario, Kyler Fedko (4)

I am with you on the adds. I wouldn’t add anyone else. That is really already too many adds. It will be difficult to manage the 40 next year if the majority of these players are not ready. As we knew at the deadline they are also very outfield heavy. In this case none of those four is a major league centerfielder. I know injuries had Fedko in centerfielder for the Surge but I don’t think he can play a passable centerfielder in the majors. I think they really need to risk leaving one of the four outfielders off the list. Maybe two.

Looking back at the kinds of players kept in rule 5 pitchers dominate. It is easier to roster a 12th man on your pitching staff (the 13th needs to be able to shuttle back and forth). It is harder to stash a position player in that 13th spot. They really need to be someone who can play multiple positions and either centerfield or shortstop. They need to be able to pinch run. Otherwise they need to be able to hit so well that they are playing regularly. I think Gonzalez and Fedko with success in AAA are locks. Mendez is about a year and a half younger than Rosario. He is next. They might lose Rosario but I think I would risk it. I also think he will get returned when he struggles to hit. They just have too many outfielders.

That is 7 adds so they should make room for 8. I think they should seek a pitcher for the bullpen in rule 5. I would only reduce the roster by 8 right now. They would be Tonkin, Hatch, Misiewicz, Cabrera, Funderburk, Gasper, Keirsey and Vazquez.

The 40 man roster does not need to be in balance over the winter. Moves will be made. Larnach will likely be tendered and traded. Perhaps another outfielder or two will be traded. Miranda is moved in a minor deal or designated when they add a major league ready bat. They will find a catcher and Pereda will be removed. They will add a shortstop or Culpepper will anrrive and Fitzgerald will be removed. They will need a back up centerfielder and Outman can hold that spot until Rodriguez or Jenkins arrive. Maybe Roden is a strong enough centerfielder to move Outman off. As I look at it I don’t think it is wise to tender Topa because they will keep him at his arb salary in spite of decline and injury history. He also will have 5 years service time so he can’t be optioned. Maybe I should have had him in the 8. He could be better version of Dobnak if they would use him that way and be willing to designate him.

I am sure someone will argue why keep _________ over Rosario. That really isn’t what I am doing. I am not keeping Miranda or Outman over Rosario. I am keeping them in that spot until they find someone to fill that spot that has a major league ready bat. I think Rosario needs more time in the minors and not ready to contribute from the 40. It would be hard to roster both Rosario and Mendez on the 40 and manage the roster next year through injuries and bullpen over use. Leaving Rosario off though is a risk. Is he ready to hit major league pitching? Teams can’t keep him as a versatile 4th outfielder. He needs to be ready to hit.

 

[DocBauer]

On 10/2/2025 at 1:18 PM, Riverbrian said:

We are going to disagree on this point. I believe it is not only possible to roster 5 outfielders and provide enough playing time for all. I also believe it is necessary to do so. 

The rest of your post is good food for thought. Martin had a great finish to the year. Many people were willing to toss him aside after 2024. Not as many are willing to toss him aside now. What happens in 2026? Let's find out. 

You are right that Funderburk stepped up. Players will both surprise and disappoint with opportunity. 

I agree. 

If the Twins were smart enough, and ballsy enough to follow the Brewers MO, they'd give a job to Rodriguez for opening day, provided he gets through winter ball and ST healthy. 

I pick him over Jenkins only because he's a little older, and his clock is ticking. And ONE rookie being fit in at a time makes more sense.

But you could also flip that scenario in Jenkins' favor as well. (But I'd sure love a 21yo getting a little more of a ramp up and additional service time added).

[DocBauer]

On 10/3/2025 at 1:23 PM, Riverbrian said:

In my opinion... GM's need to prepare for success and failure. 

I'm with you... 2026 certainly has the potential of being a rough year. If I had to place a bet. I'd bet on a rough year.

No matter how you and I feel... or even how the front office feels deep down inside... you still have to prepare for success.

If they don't trade Ryan or Lopez... That starting pitching staff could be pretty good... it is certainly deep with potential.

I personally don't believe that we traded any offensive game changers at the deadline and I include Correa when I say that. In other words... I think the offensive ground could be made up quickly. We are not talking about high bars to clear. 

The bullpen? Well... Yeah... they really did a number on the pen and it is probably the main reason that I doubt a fun 2026 is possible... but the bullpen is also one of the easiest things to rebuild... it doesn't have to be the best bullpen in baseball... it just needs to be competitive... not a nightmare like it is now.

So you got to prepare for success. If some things click... Our chances for success are improved with Trevor helping out... of course... that is my opinion... many here seem to disagree with that opinion. 

Bottom Line: We don't need to rush Trevor out the door. If he has a good year... he can be a deadline decision. 

For everyone looking at his 100 OPS+. His OPS was going to come down when lefties are added to his repertoire. With more exposure... he can get that OPS against lefties .650 and I think he has the potential to increase his OPS against Righties and all of sudden you got an .800 OPS guy playing for Cleveland against us... and we can all look back and say... Yeah... We probably shouldn't have rushed him out the door.  

He's one of our best returning hitters. We may need more than that but right now... we got way too many players not hitting at his level to deal with first. 

Trevor has a job on my team. 

 

See, this is very close to an earlier post I made.

I just don't believe in giving up ahead of time. If they keep Lopez and Ryan...well within any logical payroll plan...you have a basis for contention simply because quality SP is the hardest thing for ANY team to find.

No apologies needed. There's a hell of a lot of teams that would envy a rotation lead by Lopez, Ryan, and a healthy Ober for only just under $40M combined. And then you add in the undervalued SWR who might by on the upswing and the depth of Bradley, Matthews, Abel, Morris and others. 

Why in hell would you give that up?

Unless things go sideways and you just feel you have to blow the whole thing up.

But are we really there yet?

We disagree only somewhat on Larnach. I don't believe we disagree on Wallner. The OF has Buxton as a fixture. And then we have TOP prospects like Jenkins, Rodriguez, and Gonzalez oh so close. Personally, I haven't dismissed Roden or Fedko as possibles. 

The INF is in flux, and depth is poor. And 1B is a blackhole needing to be addressed. We're both in agreement about a roster that doesn't have enough young, pre-arbitration talent. But you also can't build an entire roster with pre-arb players. I think we agree on that.

There's a whole lot of IF'S regarding the 2026 Twins. IMO, that starts with the INF. DO they find someone to play a viable 1B and contribute offensively, or do they punt and just try out players there? Do Lewis and Lee, healthy, take a step forward? How long before K-Pepper is ready for depth or a starting position?

I'm not in favor of keeping Outman AT ALL. I can't believe he or Keirsey or some other AAAA couldn't fill the same role sitting at AAA. I want younger talent getting their opportunity. But, unfortunately, I can see an opening day roster of Martin, Buxton, Wallner, Outman, and maybe Larnach. 

But I'm still not sure the Twins will want to spend $5M on Larnach...who I don't dislike...vs making room for a younger prospect. That's where I'd go.

Agreed the pen is a totally different discussion. But I can still see a potential path where it might be acceptable?

 

[Riverbrian]

On 10/4/2025 at 8:01 PM, DocBauer said:

I agree. 

If the Twins were smart enough, and ballsy enough to follow the Brewers MO, they'd give a job to Rodriguez for opening day, provided he gets through winter ball and ST healthy. 

I pick him over Jenkins only because he's a little older, and his clock is ticking. And ONE rookie being fit in at a time makes more sense.

But you could also flip that scenario in Jenkins' favor as well. (But I'd sure love a 21yo getting a little more of a ramp up and additional service time added).

I always appreciate your posts Doc. Consistent Comprehensive good reads. 

When you say Clock is ticking... that's a key point with me. Before you rush Jenkins through the system... you got to make sure that you are not losing anyone with a ticking clock.

There has to be an order to these things to prevent chaotic spillage. We should probably look at Erod before Jenkins and we should probably look at Outman before we look at Erod. 

Because in the end... Jenkins won't be enough. This organization will need Jenkins Plus someone else plus someone else and that train can't stop. 

[Riverbrian]

On 10/4/2025 at 8:48 PM, DocBauer said:

See, this is very close to an earlier post I made.

I just don't believe in giving up ahead of time. If they keep Lopez and Ryan...well within any logical payroll plan...you have a basis for contention simply because quality SP is the hardest thing for ANY team to find.

No apologies needed. There's a hell of a lot of teams that would envy a rotation lead by Lopez, Ryan, and a healthy Ober for only just under $40M combined. And then you add in the undervalued SWR who might by on the upswing and the depth of Bradley, Matthews, Abel, Morris and others. 

Why in hell would you give that up?

Unless things go sideways and you just feel you have to blow the whole thing up.

But are we really there yet?

We disagree only somewhat on Larnach. I don't believe we disagree on Wallner. The OF has Buxton as a fixture. And then we have TOP prospects like Jenkins, Rodriguez, and Gonzalez oh so close. Personally, I haven't dismissed Roden or Fedko as possibles. 

The INF is in flux, and depth is poor. And 1B is a blackhole needing to be addressed. We're both in agreement about a roster that doesn't have enough young, pre-arbitration talent. But you also can't build an entire roster with pre-arb players. I think we agree on that.

There's a whole lot of IF'S regarding the 2026 Twins. IMO, that starts with the INF. DO they find someone to play a viable 1B and contribute offensively, or do they punt and just try out players there? Do Lewis and Lee, healthy, take a step forward? How long before K-Pepper is ready for depth or a starting position?

I'm not in favor of keeping Outman AT ALL. I can't believe he or Keirsey or some other AAAA couldn't fill the same role sitting at AAA. I want younger talent getting their opportunity. But, unfortunately, I can see an opening day roster of Martin, Buxton, Wallner, Outman, and maybe Larnach. 

But I'm still not sure the Twins will want to spend $5M on Larnach...who I don't dislike...vs making room for a younger prospect. That's where I'd go.

Agreed the pen is a totally different discussion. But I can still see a potential path where it might be acceptable?

 

As the roster stands right now.

In my opinion the Twins need in this order.

1. A Bullpen. I Hate to be this broad and not be specific with the number of bullpen arms but we need multiple arms to fill the bullpen... just to try and get it up to at least average. The only thing I know is this: The Bullpen isn't  just about the 8th and 9th. If you look at good bullpens across the league... they are full of players that very few of us have heard of. We can find some players that few of us haven't heard of. There will be some trial and error but the bullpen can be built.  

2. A young 1st baseman - The biggest specific hole in the organization... Except for catcher but I'd punt the catcher position because of the over pay involved. Is it Sabato or Fedko. Is it Keaschall or do they move an OF to 1B this off-season. I don't know but we need a young 1B with a Paul Bunyan bat to stop the Ty France one year contract signings and we need it bad. How do you get one? That's tough because the type of player you need in this spot just might cost you Joe Ryan.   

3. Young Infielder who can play SS. It doesn't mean that Brooks Lee gets moved off of Shortstop but a young infielder who can play a decent SS is needed because Brooks probably won't play 162 games due to injury or sub par performance. This isn't to suggest that Brooks is not our SS of the future but it is to suggest that Brooks can be challenged for playing time just in case. Pour 13 players through the filter... not 9 because the chances of all 9 making it are slim. Finding 9 players out of 13 increases your odds of finding 9. 

As for Jenkins, Erod and GG. They can break camp with the club out of spring training or they can be the first person called up when injury occurs. It really doesn't matter to me... just as long as they get playing time when they are added to the 26 man roster. 

I get the Larnach sentiment. He's just not where we start to fix this thing. He's one of the few hitters that we have returning. 

It feels like we are far off... I get it. But... IMO... I can see a path to decency. You just gotta look behind these bullpen bushes blocking the view.  

[Randy Griffith]

On 10/2/2025 at 9:10 AM, Twins_Fan_in_NJ said:

Nothing would surprise me in terms of roster turnover heading into next year. The Pohlad's aren't done trimming costs. Pablo, Ryan and Jeffers aren't long for Minnesota.

Hey NJ - I was happy to see Jorge Polanco have a game to remember for Seattle yesterday.  He was my favorite Twin when he was with Minnesota.

https://www.mlb.com/news/jorge-polanco-hits-2-homers-off-tarik-skubal-in-al-division-series?game_pk=813057