With the Taj Bradley Deal, Twins Might Have Fleeced the Rays Again

[jmlease1]

14 minutes ago, Danchat said:

We have a tendency to overreact to small sample sizes, looking at his 6.61 ERA in 6 starts last year for us and the Rays gave him around 90 starts and couldn't figure him out. Clearly my logic at the time of "if the Rays can't fix him, why do you think we can" was not accurate.

Sometimes the change of scenery matters. Communication styles aren't meshing or the messages start sounding like Miss Othmar from Peanuts. 

And while TB may be a well-run organization that's been very skilled at trading away players at the right time and finding assets in other organizations, it doesn't mean they don't have their own patterns and ways of doing business that can't be exploited by teams who are taking a different angle. It's why you should never be afraid to trade with a team simply because of their reputation (I've seen people say you shouldn't trade with the Dodgers because they're "too smart" as well): everyone misses things, and players that struggle under one plan could succeed under a different design.

It sounds like TB wanted him to move off his splitter, and from what we've seen of it here in MN, it's a real weapon. That could be based on organizational philosophy in TB, or it could be the coaches working with Bradley here in MN were better able to make the adjustments with him needed to make it that weapon. You never know about fit.

And sometimes a trade really focuses things for a player and changes their attitude and focus about their career.

[Linus]

9 minutes ago, jmlease1 said:

Sometimes the change of scenery matters. Communication styles aren't meshing or the messages start sounding like Miss Othmar from Peanuts. 

And while TB may be a well-run organization that's been very skilled at trading away players at the right time and finding assets in other organizations, it doesn't mean they don't have their own patterns and ways of doing business that can't be exploited by teams who are taking a different angle. It's why you should never be afraid to trade with a team simply because of their reputation (I've seen people say you shouldn't trade with the Dodgers because they're "too smart" as well): everyone misses things, and players that struggle under one plan could succeed under a different design.

It sounds like TB wanted him to move off his splitter, and from what we've seen of it here in MN, it's a real weapon. That could be based on organizational philosophy in TB, or it could be the coaches working with Bradley here in MN were better able to make the adjustments with him needed to make it that weapon. You never know about fit.

And sometimes a trade really focuses things for a player and changes their attitude and focus about their career.

Miss Othmar…..never knew the name. 

[twinstalker]

A reminder that Taj Bradley has done this before.  It's okay to be hopeful, but it's pretty dumb to think this trade is won.  Although, the only way it could really be lost is if there was a better deal to be had for Jax last year or this.

[Woof Bronzer]

1 hour ago, bunsen82 said:

I made a post on the last article with the trade deadline thread - the grade article -  and 1 more article on the players traded for were busts.   There have been ample articels and threads with negative sentiment towards Bradley.  

You mentioned offseason articles.  There was 1, and the comments were mixed (in fact most were pro-Bradley).  You're moving the goalposts but that's fine, we all do.  

I think it's awfully bold to drape the Mission Accomplished banner after 3 starts from Bradley.  I guess small sample sizes are totally fine if they tell a story you like.  Being a topline MLB starter means pitching just as well in September as in April.  If you look at his monthly splits in his career, his 4 best xFIP months were May or earlier and his 4 worst were July or later.  He has also had several great 3 game stretches in his career.  Often followed up by terrible stretches.  

He still has a lot to prove.   I do think the change of scenery helped him and if he has changed his mental approach to the game and dedication to his craft than I am optimistic about his future.

Let's revisit this in September.

[Twins_Fan_in_NJ]

2 hours ago, bunsen82 said:

It is looking though as if we have won 3 trades in a row with Tampa

Ryan, Bradley, Orze

I was also listening to MLB this morning.    Speaking of early returns on trades and small sample sizes.  Daniel Susac is 7/8  early in the season and a .5 WAR.   

Oof on Susac.

[DataNerd]

2 hours ago, roger said:

You missed the first nice trade for the Twins, Odorizzi.  Solid starter.  Did Palacios ever play in MLB?

Yes, after the Rays released him and he played a bit with us in 22.  Was horrible.

[bunsen82]

27 minutes ago, Woof Bronzer said:

You mentioned offseason articles.  There was 1, and the comments were mixed (in fact most were pro-Bradley).  You're moving the goalposts but that's fine, we all do.  

I think it's awfully bold to drape the Mission Accomplished banner after 3 starts from Bradley.  I guess small sample sizes are totally fine if they tell a story you like.  Being a topline MLB starter means pitching just as well in September as in April.  If you look at his monthly splits in his career, his 4 best xFIP months were May or earlier and his 4 worst were July or later.  He has also had several great 3 game stretches in his career.  Often followed up by terrible stretches.  

He still has a lot to prove.   I do think the change of scenery helped him and if he has changed his mental approach to the game and dedication to his craft than I am optimistic about his future.

Let's revisit this in September.

Thats 4 more articles and I am still in March.   Yes articles can discuss multiple prospects rather than just a deep dive on 1 player or prospect.   The Majority of the negativity occurred on the trade deadline date,  August and September,  including his starts,  game threads and the post game reviews,  the trade grade article and then the Bust article.   

[jmlease1]

19 minutes ago, Woof Bronzer said:

You mentioned offseason articles.  There was 1, and the comments were mixed (in fact most were pro-Bradley).  You're moving the goalposts but that's fine, we all do.  

I think it's awfully bold to drape the Mission Accomplished banner after 3 starts from Bradley.  I guess small sample sizes are totally fine if they tell a story you like.  Being a topline MLB starter means pitching just as well in September as in April.  If you look at his monthly splits in his career, his 4 best xFIP months were May or earlier and his 4 worst were July or later.  He has also had several great 3 game stretches in his career.  Often followed up by terrible stretches.  

He still has a lot to prove.   I do think the change of scenery helped him and if he has changed his mental approach to the game and dedication to his craft than I am optimistic about his future.

Let's revisit this in September.

I think we're allowed to feel some positivity over Bradley. I don't think most people are saying "mission accomplished", but Bradley has never had a start to his season this good before. The fact that he's kept the ball in the park is an encouraging sign, and while he's had a three game stretch like this before...it's been unusual.

People have also overrated how good Jax was: he had 1 dominant season as a reliever (2024) and 3 others where he was a quality reliever, but hardly elite. last season we spent a lot of time talking about how unlucky Jax was, and how the results weren't matching the underlying numbers...but the reality was, Jax was more hittable in 2025 and looked a lot more like the dude from 2022 or 2023 than 2024, even if his K numbers were elite. I'm sure Jax's performance will improve, but he also might just a good but not elite reliever.

[rdehring]

1 hour ago, Blyleven2011 said:

We got odorizze in a trade that worked out for both team ...

Bradley has looked good to start out the year , great game last night ...

Long season ahead and hope his stamina holds up all year , pitched into seventh and threw over hundred pitches , manager showing confidence  ...

Would like Lopez in rotation but Bradley so far has taken his place , Ober is Ober  , got to get Abel on track with his repertoire and SWR continuing to do what he does and rotation staff has a chance to perform well  , Abel  , give him 2 or 3 more starts to harness his ability , zebby too needs to pitch better in AAA or he will be bypassed as the first chosen one for someone else ...

Festa is on 60 day il list now after reports he was working his way back  ...

As we saw last night, the bullpen needs help.  A lot of it.  When Festa returns, could he become the next Jax?

[Woof Bronzer]

52 minutes ago, bunsen82 said:

Thats 4 more articles and I am still in March.   Yes articles can discuss multiple prospects rather than just a deep dive on 1 player or prospect.   The Majority of the negativity occurred on the trade deadline date,  August and September,  including his starts,  game threads and the post game reviews,  the trade grade article and then the Bust article.   

I'm bored and off today, so for some reason I looked at the 4 articles you posted.

#1 One comment about Bradley, fairly positive. 

#2.  Not a single negative comment about Bradley, all comments are that he should stay a starter

#3 Not a single comment about Bradley at all.  

#4 2 comments about Bradley, 1 suggesting that the BP is a backup plan if things don't go well as a starter, the other optimistic about him.  

You said people have been "trashing" Bradley on this site.  Based on the evidence you provided that's unequivocally false.  

I'm very curious, why is it important to you to make up this anti-Bradley sentiment?  Just to say you were right?  Maybe it makes you feel better, who knows.    

[mickster]

4 hours ago, laloesch said:

I THINK the Twins struck gold with Bradley and eventually Abel, who also has fantastic stuff.  The front office should trade Ryan while they still can get prospects for him or sign him to an extension, but don't wait much longer either way.  A rotation of Ryan, Bradley, Abel, SWR, + has huge potential.  The question is what happens to all the rest in AAA?  Matthews, Morris, Festa, etc. 

Festa is a BP arm for sure, and even more so now with the extended time out,   Zebbys future is questionable and no clue on Morris - 

[MGX]

1 hour ago, twinstalker said:

A reminder that Taj Bradley has done this before.  It's okay to be hopeful, but it's pretty dumb to think this trade is won.  Although, the only way it could really be lost is if there was a better deal to be had for Jax last year or this.

The Twins won this trade the second it was completed. I have no idea if Bradley will continue to be this good, but if you can get a 24 year old starting pitcher who already has started 94 games & been reasonably successful considering how young he was when making those starts & the tough hitters in his division in exchange for a 30 year old who failed as a starter & had 1 very good season as reliever with the rest of his seasons being inconsistent. That's a win every time.

[Danchat]

2 hours ago, Blyleven2011 said:

We got odorizze in a trade that worked out for both team ...

The Rays acquired nothing other than not paying Odorizzi's arbitration salaries, as Jermaine Palacios never played in the majors for them. Hard to call that trade a win for Tampa when we got a serviceable starting pitcher and they got zero value in return.

[Patzky]

3 hours ago, bunsen82 said:

I made a post on the last article with the trade deadline thread - the grade article -  and 1 more article on the players traded for were busts.   There have been ample articels and threads with negative sentiment towards Bradley.  

In a world where Pablo and Festa didn't get hurt, the calls for Taj to the bullpen would be louder than they turned out to be. Will the Prielipp to the bullpen calls be coming soon?

[Hashim]

“On a team headed nowhere in 2025, the value of a high-leverage reliever like Jax was diminished. Turning that into a controllable starting pitcher with upside fitted into the bigger picture.” Couldn’t agree with this statement and assessment more. I was livid at first because I thought they could’ve gone more value but Taj has been a revelation. I hope and pray he ends up like Ryan or better. If we can keep our pitching staff together, I think we should go all out for offense in the offseason ( I know, wishful thinking). Thank you for the article. 

[Hashim]

1 hour ago, rdehring said:

As we saw last night, the bullpen needs help.  A lot of it.  When Festa returns, could he become the next Jax?

Let’s hope. A lot of our good young pitchers look like bullpen arms with their vast injuries, high velocity and inability to get outs in the 2nd/3rd time around the order. 

[Hashim]

43 minutes ago, Patzky said:

In a world where Pablo and Festa didn't get hurt, the calls for Taj to the bullpen would be louder than they turned out to be. Will the Prielipp to the bullpen calls be coming soon?

I think they’re completely different pitchers. Taj doesn’t have the extensive arms injuries and has much better stamina. 

[arby58]

5 hours ago, roger said:

Did Palacios ever play in MLB?

He did - ironically, with the Twins in 2022. He was a utility player and even pitched in two games. Clearly he wasn't much of a prize.

[ashbury]

5 hours ago, bunsen82 said:

There is a statement out there that the Twins showed Bradley the science and art of pitching.  

5 hours ago, Richie the Rally Goat said:

That was the beginning of the end of fundamentally sound Twins Baseball… each year getting worse and worse at just playing catch… not that it’s unique to MN, just depressing

Can the Twins put together a graduate-level colloquium for the position players called the Science and Art of Baseball Fundamentals?  (Extra Credit: the emerging science of ABS challenges)

[nicksaviking]

Keep it up Taj, make this fool eat his words.

On 2/11/2026 at 8:15 AM, nicksaviking said:

Tampa, who was NOT in contention, straight up traded four more seasons of a 24-year-old Bradley for two seasons of 30-year-old Griffin Jax.

Tampa doesn't do that if they think Bradley's future is to remain in the rotation. I'd move him to the pen now and hope he's a lights out closer come 2027. Making that move mid-season never ends with good results.

 

[twinstalker]

1 hour ago, Danchat said:

The Rays acquired nothing other than not paying Odorizzi's arbitration salaries, as Jermaine Palacios never played in the majors for them. Hard to call that trade a win for Tampa when we got a serviceable starting pitcher and they got zero value in return.

I'll guarantee it was a win for TB.  They're on a different level, and giving up a pitcher (and 40 spot) for nothing but a minor prospect is how they're able to operate.  Because we can't operate that efficiently, we have to pay the salaries of guys like Odorizzi.

[arby58]

22 minutes ago, twinstalker said:

I'll guarantee it was a win for TB.  They're on a different level, and giving up a pitcher (and 40 spot) for nothing but a minor prospect is how they're able to operate.  Because we can't operate that efficiently, we have to pay the salaries of guys like Odorizzi.

You have to play (and pay) somebody. I guarantee any MLB team would be satisfied with the results of a trade of a minor minor leaguer for a starting pitcher who goes 15-7, 3.51 ERA and an even better FIP of 3..36 with 178 Ks in 159 innings. 

[nicksaviking]

37 minutes ago, twinstalker said:

I'll guarantee it was a win for TB.  They're on a different level, and giving up a pitcher (and 40 spot) for nothing but a minor prospect is how they're able to operate.  Because we can't operate that efficiently, we have to pay the salaries of guys like Odorizzi.

Odorizzi is bad now? In the trade, the Twins only took on his final arbitration years, the final of which he was the best starter on a 100 win team. 

Any team that's unwilling to pay arbitration to a mid-rotation starter could only count a trade a win in terms of saving the owner money.

[bunsen82]

4 hours ago, Woof Bronzer said:

I'm bored and off today, so for some reason I looked at the 4 articles you posted.

#1 One comment about Bradley, fairly positive. 

#2.  Not a single negative comment about Bradley, all comments are that he should stay a starter

#3 Not a single comment about Bradley at all.  

#4 2 comments about Bradley, 1 suggesting that the BP is a backup plan if things don't go well as a starter, the other optimistic about him.  

You said people have been "trashing" Bradley on this site.  Based on the evidence you provided that's unequivocally false.  

I'm very curious, why is it important to you to make up this anti-Bradley sentiment?  Just to say you were right?  Maybe it makes you feel better, who knows.    

Lets clarify my statements - I stated there have been articles on him in the offseason you said only 1.    2 I said most of the griping was after the trade and during the end of season.   Here is 3 articles,  and there are 3 more that I know have some doozies in it too.   I do personally like the ones calling Abel and Bradley poop and another 2 separate references to a bag of magic beans.   More than anything I am a facts based guy - I tend to have a really long memory good and bad -  and effectively since the trade and in the majority of the articles game threads ect I said this would be a process.  I didn't care about last season,  I said the offseason and how they looked coming into this season would tell us if the process worked.  So its a bit of affirmation on my part,  its a bit of gloating and its a bit of also showing that at times we can be too negative as a fan base.    I do question your research skills if you couldn't find any of these gems LOL.   This is just the tip of the iceberg.  Fyi one of the worst offenders was Kirbydome who liked your post LOL.   

"We're talking about the same Taj Bradley who can't beat out "TBD" in the rotation, correct?" USAcheif

7. Griffin Jax to the Rays — Grade: C–
Return: RHP Taj Bradley
Bradley was once a hot name, but he’s struggled with a 4.70 ERA over 350+ MLB innings. Jax had 2.5 years of control left and could have drawn more in the offseason. His reported trade request might’ve sped up the timeline to Minnesota’s detriment.  Matthew Taylor

Griffin Jax to the Rays — Grade: 60
Return: RHP Taj Bradley
Another trade that makes a lot of sense (on its own, I'm judging these deals on their own, as a group I don't like them). A RP for a potential SP. But, man, Bradley has struggled some.......but, ya, a RP for a potential SP, I can see how this makes sense. I think 60 might be generous, but I'm in a good mood after listening to KPOP Demon Hunters.  - Mike Sixel (pretty fair assessment)

7] JAX: They weren't FORCED to trade Jax simply because he asked. He'd be the closer in 2026. He's still got great stuff and high K numbers and is only 30yo. Bradley wasn't a bad return. But he's been sliding. However, he's also pretty young. Is he a mid rotation starter or a back of the pen arm? I'm going with a C grade even though Bradley's got potential. A 1 for 1 and the loss of Jax AFTER moving Duran keeps my grade down. (DocBauer)

 

12/2/25  Christie Article - Did the Twins win or lose the 2025 trad deadline

RHP Griffin Jax to the Rays for RHP Taj Bradley
This was one of a few shockers. Jax had become the steady hand in the bullpen, but the Rays needed stability and offered up Bradley in return. Minnesota immediately moved Bradley into the starting rotation with the hope that a new organization could help him reclaim the command and confidence that made him a premium prospect. If he sticks in the rotation, the upside outweighs the loss of Jax, but that’s a big question at this point.
Verdict: Loss

If we're doing an evaluation today, instead of say last August, I don't know how anyone can claim the Twins won.

I'm fine pinning a big TBD on the fire sale, but just about every one of the players the Twins got back face planted at whatever level they were placed at. Henry Mendez looks like he continued his trajectory, but doesn't just about everyone else look worse now than they did when the Twins acquired them? (Nicksaviking)

Bradley had a 6.61 ERA in 6 starts with MN last year. This was after being demoted in TB. Go ahead and dog on Jax if it makes you feel better about the swap, but he was a pretty damn dependable (if not borderline elite) RP the previous 3 seasons. His FIP during the 1sh half with MN was half of what his ERA was, so do with that what you will. Hell, even though his TB tenure got off to a rough start he still posted solid numbers. (Kirbydome89)

I hated the Jax trade (brandon) 

 could have been an exciting weekend—almost as exciting as games could be, for a team that has gone in the tank. The Twins won a thriller on Friday, then had the debuts of Mick Abel and Taj Bradley to look forward to. Well, Abel got obliterated yesterday, and today, Bradley was even worse, at least at the start. - Hans birkeland 8/24/25

 

My takeaway from this weekend is to be weary when a team is willing to trade away a (once) starting pitching prospect. Aggies 7    8/24/25

I was going to use the old "Jack and the magic beans" analogy, but at least the beans in that old tale actually grew into something. Not sure we'll have that luck with either Abel or Bradley. - Lastonepicked   8/24/25

Nothing points to success like going 1-5 against the Athletics and White Sox. Everyone was clamoring to so Abel and Bradley. Well now you have seen them in Twin’s uniform. Glorybound 8/24/25

 

I am weary of how many times Falvey & Sons struggle to identify talent. Oh well, maybe things change in the future. Why does it seem like a few GM's are excited to discuss Ryan and Lopez with the Twins brain trust this coming offseason?

Doesn't it seem like Griffin Jax might have returned a guy like Harry Ford? I guess it gets tough when a team takes 15 minutes to complete a deal. Doesn't leave much time to float other offers or interest. Ton&Rodney  8/24/25

Abel & Bradley 💩💩💩. Twins are great at giving talents away.   Hashim 8/24/25

Glad to have a chance to "see what we have" in the 2 gems we got from the fire sale. Woof.  DavidHK 8/24/25

Abel struggling is one thing, but this is Bradley's third full year as a starting pitcher in the majors... I really have to wonder if there was a better package on the table for Jax rather than swapping him with a struggling starter straight-up. I understand that Jax isn't having the best year but he had value, and I would have preferred taking the package of several farther away prospects. Maybe they can transition Taj to the pen and make some bullpen magic?  Danchat 8/24/25

Disappointing start from Bradley, who doesn't really get the rookie excuses since he's made more than a few MLB appearances. Definitely not what the Twins wanted to see back-to-back from two of their most notable trade deadline acquisitions. CWS are not a good team and Bradley got rocked.  8/25/25

 

Twins got Joe Ryan for Nelson Cruz. 

They can identify talent - it just seems that during this teardown they really missed. Unfortunate considering that they dismantled the entire team for what appears to be a bag of magic beans.  Brokencompass 8/25/25

 

Bradley is pushing 70 MLB starts...and was traded for a reliever...by an organization that depends almost solely on deploying young talent. He's a failed prospect. Expecting better from him is...highly optimistic to say the least. USAChief 9/10/25

 

 

 

 

 

[KirbyDome89]

4 hours ago, Woof Bronzer said:

I'm bored and off today, so for some reason I looked at the 4 articles you posted.

#1 One comment about Bradley, fairly positive. 

#2.  Not a single negative comment about Bradley, all comments are that he should stay a starter

#3 Not a single comment about Bradley at all.  

#4 2 comments about Bradley, 1 suggesting that the BP is a backup plan if things don't go well as a starter, the other optimistic about him.  

You said people have been "trashing" Bradley on this site.  Based on the evidence you provided that's unequivocally false.  

I'm very curious, why is it important to you to make up this anti-Bradley sentiment?  Just to say you were right?  Maybe it makes you feel better, who knows.    

For whatever reason this person assumed the contrarian role in regard to the deadline moves. They see some zag where almost everybody is zigging. They've latched onto Bradley presumably because it's all they've got as far as MLB production right now. I saw I made the greatest hits list (weird none of us quoted were tagged though) and FWIW this same poster was much higher on Abel yet it's radio silence (as it should be since we're 2 or 3 ****ing starts deep) regarding his rough beginning. 

Taking a 3 game victory lap while claiming to be a "facts based guy," is wild, but doing so amidst Abel's struggles while also claiming to have such a great memory is even more hilarious.  

[KirbyDome89]

1 hour ago, bunsen82 said:

Lets clarify my statements - I stated there have been articles on him in the offseason you said only 1.    2 I said most of the griping was after the trade and during the end of season.   Here is 3 articles,  and there are 3 more that I know have some doozies in it too.   I do personally like the ones calling Abel and Bradley poop and another 2 separate references to a bag of magic beans.   More than anything I am a facts based guy - I tend to have a really long memory good and bad -  and effectively since the trade and in the majority of the articles game threads ect I said this would be a process.  I didn't care about last season,  I said the offseason and how they looked coming into this season would tell us if the process worked.  So its a bit of affirmation on my part,  its a bit of gloating and its a bit of also showing that at times we can be too negative as a fan base.    I do question your research skills if you couldn't find any of these gems LOL.   This is just the tip of the iceberg.  Fyi one of the worst offenders was Kirbydome who liked your post LOL.   

"We're talking about the same Taj Bradley who can't beat out "TBD" in the rotation, correct?" USAcheif

7. Griffin Jax to the Rays — Grade: C–
Return: RHP Taj Bradley
Bradley was once a hot name, but he’s struggled with a 4.70 ERA over 350+ MLB innings. Jax had 2.5 years of control left and could have drawn more in the offseason. His reported trade request might’ve sped up the timeline to Minnesota’s detriment.  Matthew Taylor

Griffin Jax to the Rays — Grade: 60
Return: RHP Taj Bradley
Another trade that makes a lot of sense (on its own, I'm judging these deals on their own, as a group I don't like them). A RP for a potential SP. But, man, Bradley has struggled some.......but, ya, a RP for a potential SP, I can see how this makes sense. I think 60 might be generous, but I'm in a good mood after listening to KPOP Demon Hunters.  - Mike Sixel (pretty fair assessment)

7] JAX: They weren't FORCED to trade Jax simply because he asked. He'd be the closer in 2026. He's still got great stuff and high K numbers and is only 30yo. Bradley wasn't a bad return. But he's been sliding. However, he's also pretty young. Is he a mid rotation starter or a back of the pen arm? I'm going with a C grade even though Bradley's got potential. A 1 for 1 and the loss of Jax AFTER moving Duran keeps my grade down. (DocBauer)

 

12/2/25  Christie Article - Did the Twins win or lose the 2025 trad deadline

RHP Griffin Jax to the Rays for RHP Taj Bradley
This was one of a few shockers. Jax had become the steady hand in the bullpen, but the Rays needed stability and offered up Bradley in return. Minnesota immediately moved Bradley into the starting rotation with the hope that a new organization could help him reclaim the command and confidence that made him a premium prospect. If he sticks in the rotation, the upside outweighs the loss of Jax, but that’s a big question at this point.
Verdict: Loss

If we're doing an evaluation today, instead of say last August, I don't know how anyone can claim the Twins won.

I'm fine pinning a big TBD on the fire sale, but just about every one of the players the Twins got back face planted at whatever level they were placed at. Henry Mendez looks like he continued his trajectory, but doesn't just about everyone else look worse now than they did when the Twins acquired them? (Nicksaviking)

Bradley had a 6.61 ERA in 6 starts with MN last year. This was after being demoted in TB. Go ahead and dog on Jax if it makes you feel better about the swap, but he was a pretty damn dependable (if not borderline elite) RP the previous 3 seasons. His FIP during the 1sh half with MN was half of what his ERA was, so do with that what you will. Hell, even though his TB tenure got off to a rough start he still posted solid numbers. (Kirbydome89)

I hated the Jax trade (brandon) 

 could have been an exciting weekend—almost as exciting as games could be, for a team that has gone in the tank. The Twins won a thriller on Friday, then had the debuts of Mick Abel and Taj Bradley to look forward to. Well, Abel got obliterated yesterday, and today, Bradley was even worse, at least at the start. - Hans birkeland 8/24/25

 

My takeaway from this weekend is to be weary when a team is willing to trade away a (once) starting pitching prospect. Aggies 7    8/24/25

I was going to use the old "Jack and the magic beans" analogy, but at least the beans in that old tale actually grew into something. Not sure we'll have that luck with either Abel or Bradley. - Lastonepicked   8/24/25

Nothing points to success like going 1-5 against the Athletics and White Sox. Everyone was clamoring to so Abel and Bradley. Well now you have seen them in Twin’s uniform. Glorybound 8/24/25

 

I am weary of how many times Falvey & Sons struggle to identify talent. Oh well, maybe things change in the future. Why does it seem like a few GM's are excited to discuss Ryan and Lopez with the Twins brain trust this coming offseason?

Doesn't it seem like Griffin Jax might have returned a guy like Harry Ford? I guess it gets tough when a team takes 15 minutes to complete a deal. Doesn't leave much time to float other offers or interest. Ton&Rodney  8/24/25

Abel & Bradley 💩💩💩. Twins are great at giving talents away.   Hashim 8/24/25

Glad to have a chance to "see what we have" in the 2 gems we got from the fire sale. Woof.  DavidHK 8/24/25

Abel struggling is one thing, but this is Bradley's third full year as a starting pitcher in the majors... I really have to wonder if there was a better package on the table for Jax rather than swapping him with a struggling starter straight-up. I understand that Jax isn't having the best year but he had value, and I would have preferred taking the package of several farther away prospects. Maybe they can transition Taj to the pen and make some bullpen magic?  Danchat 8/24/25

Disappointing start from Bradley, who doesn't really get the rookie excuses since he's made more than a few MLB appearances. Definitely not what the Twins wanted to see back-to-back from two of their most notable trade deadline acquisitions. CWS are not a good team and Bradley got rocked.  8/25/25

 

Twins got Joe Ryan for Nelson Cruz. 

They can identify talent - it just seems that during this teardown they really missed. Unfortunate considering that they dismantled the entire team for what appears to be a bag of magic beans.  Brokencompass 8/25/25

 

Bradley is pushing 70 MLB starts...and was traded for a reliever...by an organization that depends almost solely on deploying young talent. He's a failed prospect. Expecting better from him is...highly optimistic to say the least. USAChief 9/10/25

 

 

 

 

 

If you're going to sew together snippets of posts as evidence for some sort of anti-Bradley agenda at least tag us....

@USAFChief

@DocBauer

@nicksaviking

@Hans Birkeland

@Brandon

@Aggies7

@tony&rodney

@LastOnePicked

@Danchat

@Glorybound

@Hashim

@BrokenCompass

I can't find Mike or DavidHK?

[Woof Bronzer]

2 hours ago, KirbyDome89 said:

For whatever reason this person assumed the contrarian role in regard to the deadline moves. They see some zag where almost everybody is zigging. They've latched onto Bradley presumably because it's all they've got as far as MLB production right now. I saw I made the greatest hits list (weird none of us quoted were tagged though) and FWIW this same poster was much higher on Abel yet it's radio silence (as it should be since we're 2 or 3 ****ing starts deep) regarding his rough beginning. 

Taking a 3 game victory lap while claiming to be a "facts based guy," is wild, but doing so amidst Abel's struggles while also claiming to have such a great memory is even more hilarious.  

Yeah 

 

4 hours ago, bunsen82 said:

Lets clarify my statements - I stated there have been articles on him in the offseason you said only 1.    2 I said most of the griping was after the trade and during the end of season.   Here is 3 articles,  and there are 3 more that I know have some doozies in it too.   I do personally like the ones calling Abel and Bradley poop and another 2 separate references to a bag of magic beans.   More than anything I am a facts based guy - I tend to have a really long memory good and bad -  and effectively since the trade and in the majority of the articles game threads ect I said this would be a process.  I didn't care about last season,  I said the offseason and how they looked coming into this season would tell us if the process worked.  So its a bit of affirmation on my part,  its a bit of gloating and its a bit of also showing that at times we can be too negative as a fan base.    I do question your research skills if you couldn't find any of these gems LOL.   This is just the tip of the iceberg.  Fyi one of the worst offenders was Kirbydome who liked your post LOL.   

"We're talking about the same Taj Bradley who can't beat out "TBD" in the rotation, correct?" USAcheif

7. Griffin Jax to the Rays — Grade: C–
Return: RHP Taj Bradley
Bradley was once a hot name, but he’s struggled with a 4.70 ERA over 350+ MLB innings. Jax had 2.5 years of control left and could have drawn more in the offseason. His reported trade request might’ve sped up the timeline to Minnesota’s detriment.  Matthew Taylor

Griffin Jax to the Rays — Grade: 60
Return: RHP Taj Bradley
Another trade that makes a lot of sense (on its own, I'm judging these deals on their own, as a group I don't like them). A RP for a potential SP. But, man, Bradley has struggled some.......but, ya, a RP for a potential SP, I can see how this makes sense. I think 60 might be generous, but I'm in a good mood after listening to KPOP Demon Hunters.  - Mike Sixel (pretty fair assessment)

7] JAX: They weren't FORCED to trade Jax simply because he asked. He'd be the closer in 2026. He's still got great stuff and high K numbers and is only 30yo. Bradley wasn't a bad return. But he's been sliding. However, he's also pretty young. Is he a mid rotation starter or a back of the pen arm? I'm going with a C grade even though Bradley's got potential. A 1 for 1 and the loss of Jax AFTER moving Duran keeps my grade down. (DocBauer)

 

12/2/25  Christie Article - Did the Twins win or lose the 2025 trad deadline

RHP Griffin Jax to the Rays for RHP Taj Bradley
This was one of a few shockers. Jax had become the steady hand in the bullpen, but the Rays needed stability and offered up Bradley in return. Minnesota immediately moved Bradley into the starting rotation with the hope that a new organization could help him reclaim the command and confidence that made him a premium prospect. If he sticks in the rotation, the upside outweighs the loss of Jax, but that’s a big question at this point.
Verdict: Loss

If we're doing an evaluation today, instead of say last August, I don't know how anyone can claim the Twins won.

I'm fine pinning a big TBD on the fire sale, but just about every one of the players the Twins got back face planted at whatever level they were placed at. Henry Mendez looks like he continued his trajectory, but doesn't just about everyone else look worse now than they did when the Twins acquired them? (Nicksaviking)

Bradley had a 6.61 ERA in 6 starts with MN last year. This was after being demoted in TB. Go ahead and dog on Jax if it makes you feel better about the swap, but he was a pretty damn dependable (if not borderline elite) RP the previous 3 seasons. His FIP during the 1sh half with MN was half of what his ERA was, so do with that what you will. Hell, even though his TB tenure got off to a rough start he still posted solid numbers. (Kirbydome89)

I hated the Jax trade (brandon) 

 could have been an exciting weekend—almost as exciting as games could be, for a team that has gone in the tank. The Twins won a thriller on Friday, then had the debuts of Mick Abel and Taj Bradley to look forward to. Well, Abel got obliterated yesterday, and today, Bradley was even worse, at least at the start. - Hans birkeland 8/24/25

 

My takeaway from this weekend is to be weary when a team is willing to trade away a (once) starting pitching prospect. Aggies 7    8/24/25

I was going to use the old "Jack and the magic beans" analogy, but at least the beans in that old tale actually grew into something. Not sure we'll have that luck with either Abel or Bradley. - Lastonepicked   8/24/25

Nothing points to success like going 1-5 against the Athletics and White Sox. Everyone was clamoring to so Abel and Bradley. Well now you have seen them in Twin’s uniform. Glorybound 8/24/25

 

I am weary of how many times Falvey & Sons struggle to identify talent. Oh well, maybe things change in the future. Why does it seem like a few GM's are excited to discuss Ryan and Lopez with the Twins brain trust this coming offseason?

Doesn't it seem like Griffin Jax might have returned a guy like Harry Ford? I guess it gets tough when a team takes 15 minutes to complete a deal. Doesn't leave much time to float other offers or interest. Ton&Rodney  8/24/25

Abel & Bradley 💩💩💩. Twins are great at giving talents away.   Hashim 8/24/25

Glad to have a chance to "see what we have" in the 2 gems we got from the fire sale. Woof.  DavidHK 8/24/25

Abel struggling is one thing, but this is Bradley's third full year as a starting pitcher in the majors... I really have to wonder if there was a better package on the table for Jax rather than swapping him with a struggling starter straight-up. I understand that Jax isn't having the best year but he had value, and I would have preferred taking the package of several farther away prospects. Maybe they can transition Taj to the pen and make some bullpen magic?  Danchat 8/24/25

Disappointing start from Bradley, who doesn't really get the rookie excuses since he's made more than a few MLB appearances. Definitely not what the Twins wanted to see back-to-back from two of their most notable trade deadline acquisitions. CWS are not a good team and Bradley got rocked.  8/25/25

 

Twins got Joe Ryan for Nelson Cruz. 

They can identify talent - it just seems that during this teardown they really missed. Unfortunate considering that they dismantled the entire team for what appears to be a bag of magic beans.  Brokencompass 8/25/25

 

Bradley is pushing 70 MLB starts...and was traded for a reliever...by an organization that depends almost solely on deploying young talent. He's a failed prospect. Expecting better from him is...highly optimistic to say the least. USAChief 9/10/25

 

 

 

 

 

I thought it was odd that you pulled a bunch of quotes around 8/24 and 8/25/25.  Seemed oddly specific...so I put my crack research skills to the test and it turns out on 8/24 Taj gave up 7 runs on 9 hits in an 8-0 loss to the White Sox.  This was one of the worst pitched games of the entire season.  Why did you happen to single out this game thread?  Coincidence?  I guess I don't blame folks for being upset at his performance - a poop emoji is probably not negative enough.  

So, in an effort to improve the research skills you criticized, I took a look at another game thread from a month later.  On September 24 Bradley went six, giving up a run and striking out 9.  Here's every Bradley comment in that thread:

"It was easily his most impressive outing since the Twins traded for him....flashed the front-of-the-rotation upside" 

"Very impressive and encouraging start....I think he will be an important part of the rotation in 2026." 

"Bradley was the only hope that can help us next season" 

"Bradley did well.  This is the guy you signed up for when you traded for him, and he's probably got the inside track for a rotation spot."

"excellent start...hopefully he can build on that."

Not a single negative comment.  But to be fair there was one comment that wasn't quite as effusive:

"Taj Bradley still has some very good stuff.  The issue has been the crooked innings." 

I'll let you guess who said that. 

I did notice through my (poor) research skills that you were very high on Mick Abel last fall too.  For some reason you've been pretty quiet on him so far this year.  How come?  How are the "facts" looking on him? 

[Woof Bronzer]

2 hours ago, KirbyDome89 said:

For whatever reason this person assumed the contrarian role in regard to the deadline moves. They see some zag where almost everybody is zigging. They've latched onto Bradley presumably because it's all they've got as far as MLB production right now. I saw I made the greatest hits list (weird none of us quoted were tagged though) and FWIW this same poster was much higher on Abel yet it's radio silence (as it should be since we're 2 or 3 ****ing starts deep) regarding his rough beginning. 

Taking a 3 game victory lap while claiming to be a "facts based guy," is wild, but doing so amidst Abel's struggles while also claiming to have such a great memory is even more hilarious.  

Ope meant to reply separately to this one.  Yeah I saw the same thing about Abel, dude was arguably higher on him than Bradley.  The gloating after 3 starts is the best though, I thought it was an agreed-upon fact that 3 starts is a small sample size.  

We're living in the Age of Grievances.  If you aint grievancing about something, you aint living.  

[bunsen82]

On 4/8/2026 at 8:02 AM, bunsen82 said:

No you aren't imagining anything.   Most people trashed the trade in the trade thread,  the grade thread (C-)   and later articles in the fall.   It wasn't until around December where a few more positive articles or posts came out.   Now several did acknowledge getting 4 1/2 years of a starting pitcher for 2 1/2 of a reliever seemed like a great deal.   

 I stated all along if 1 of the pitchers became elite it justified the trade deadline.  I still like Abel -  its been a rough start - but at this point we have to be absolutely thrilled with what Bradley is giving us.   

@Woof Bronzer, @KirbyDome89 

This is my initial post in this thread.  1 I stated most of the griping was after the trade deadline the grade thread and articles in the fall.  That clearly matches up with in a majority of the statements I quoted were made.  2 - Even in this thread Kirby I acknowledge Abel's rough start.  

To be clear, can emotions play a part in a persons evaluation of what occurred.  100%.  Does that still make some of the statements inaccurate.   Yes.   If you want to call me a contrarian - so be it.  I have been extremely consistent on the trades, the trade deadline and the effects on the team.  Its not something I will shy away from.  Regarding Bradley specifically even in this thread I have been very clear in what is weaknesses were.  1.  Is mechanics were off and he needed to bring back the splitter.  2. He needed to act prepare like a professional- effectively he needed to grow up and put the effort in.  There is an article last fall, where I got pretty aggressive continuing to state this.  3.  He has to avoid the crooked #'s- effectively due to high home run rates and just losing confidence ability in starts.   He needed to improve his processes and so far he has.    

As to the trade deadline what did it do.  It gave you more options to throw against the wall for starters in Abel and Bradley.   It increased your odds of 1. finding an elite pitcher 2. finding more quality pitchers to add to the rotation.  3.  It increased our catching depth.   4. Hendry Mendez who I think personally has the 3rd best bat to ball skills in the organization and lastly a higher draft pick in the draft.   I have well acknowledge the emotional cost is pretty high - I still think the Varland trade cost the team more personally than the return- even if on paper its a strong return.   For a small organization though you have to make these difficult decisions because its an unfair playing field.  I think the Twins could have continue to have mediocre to slightly above average teams through 2028 fairly easily.   However a +500. record is why Falvey and Joe are gone.   

Look I am not here to get in a pissing match.   You each can have your opinions fair enough.  I can as well.   What started off my issues with Woof were glaring inconsistences.   1. Stating no articles had been written in the offseason.  2.  There were no negative comments on Bradley.  When I post them then the goalposts suddenly moved to those were after a bad start.  Even though there were 3 negative posts from the December article but alas it really doesn't matter.  It still doesn't negate my initial statement that most of the negative opinions of him were directly after the trade and into the fall.  

In either case we have Bradley who yes is currently on a good stretch.  I will be the first to tell you he could easily blow up his next start.  1. Baseball is hard.  2. This has been an issue of Bradley's and I don't think it magically goes away.   Even still his approach to being prepared each game,  having better stuff and an extra pitch bringing back the splitter - will likely lead him to the best stats he has had as a major leaguer.  

Now elite is subjective,  but for me its a #1 or #2 pitcher.  I said if 1 of our pitchers could become elite it would make the trade deadline worth it.  As of right now Bradley's start looks promising.     

[bunsen82]

 

 

13 hours ago, Woof Bronzer said:

Yeah 

 

I thought it was odd that you pulled a bunch of quotes around 8/24 and 8/25/25.  Seemed oddly specific...so I put my crack research skills to the test and it turns out on 8/24 Taj gave up 7 runs on 9 hits in an 8-0 loss to the White Sox.  This was one of the worst pitched games of the entire season.  Why did you happen to single out this game thread?  Coincidence?  I guess I don't blame folks for being upset at his performance - a poop emoji is probably not negative enough.  

So, in an effort to improve the research skills you criticized, I took a look at another game thread from a month later.  On September 24 Bradley went six, giving up a run and striking out 9.  Here's every Bradley comment in that thread:

"It was easily his most impressive outing since the Twins traded for him....flashed the front-of-the-rotation upside" 

"Very impressive and encouraging start....I think he will be an important part of the rotation in 2026." 

"Bradley was the only hope that can help us next season" 

"Bradley did well.  This is the guy you signed up for when you traded for him, and he's probably got the inside track for a rotation spot."

"excellent start...hopefully he can build on that."

Not a single negative comment.  But to be fair there was one comment that wasn't quite as effusive:

"Taj Bradley still has some very good stuff.  The issue has been the crooked innings." 

I'll let you guess who said that. 

I did notice through my (poor) research skills that you were very high on Mick Abel last fall too.  For some reason you've been pretty quiet on him so far this year.  How come?  How are the "facts" looking on him? 

 

Sept 29th statement on Bradley  -  

"This is why I was surprised at claiming so many players were bust after a few games.  Both Mick Abel and Taj Bradley ended on a strong note.  Was the ERA great no,  did they get wins  no,  However it appears for Abel it does appear he was able to stop tipping his pitches judging by his Phillies game.  That alone is a massive improvement.  For Bradley - its a multi level re-tool.  Adjusting his arm slot for better stuff,  re-implementing the splitter and working on and adding a slider. The other thing is teaching him the process to be a professional pitcher.  Doing the homework, putting in the extra work and improving his work ethic.  It is tough to get by just on talent at the MLB level and that is what he had been trying to do.  Ultimately the Rays gave up on Bradley because he was unwilling to make adjustments or improve the work ethic.  For the Twins based on initial results it is very promising and he appears willing to adjust.   It does raise a few questions of long term viability, but the arm talent on both Abel and Bradley is undeniable.  Abel bookended his season with 2 great performances that show his potential.  The middle was rough.  Abel when he has control (and not tipping pitches) has the stuff to rack up a lot of strikeouts.  Same with Bradley.  For both the goal is lowering the Whip a bit more which minimizes the damage when they inevitably give up some home runs.  

They are both work in progresses,  with the offseason to continue to refine the progress they have made.  In either case, as I have stated I was not worried about a handful of starts at the end of the season.  I wanted to see improvement, and see if their quality of stuff was improving.  Both made improvements in the last month and showed the upside they both have.  1 or both could both fail,  or both could end up being #2 or #3 pitchers for the Twins.  All in all if 1 of those 2 could reach their potential it would make the trade deadline worth it - ignoring the return of the rest of the players."