Cody Christie’s Twins Offseason Blueprint: Major Trades & Roster Roulette

[Cody Christie]

The Minnesota Twins enter an important offseason with plenty of work ahead of them. After several seasons of declining payroll and diminishing expectations, the organization is trying to change the narrative heading into 2027. Owner Tom Pohlad has publicly acknowledged that the team's spending needs to increase, while general manager Jeremy Zoll has the responsibility of turning those promises into a more competitive roster.

Money will help, but the Twins cannot simply write checks and expect everything to fall into place. Several existing roster spots need to be reconsidered, the lineup needs additional production, and the bullpen requires more dependable arms. Minnesota also has one of baseball's better farm systems, giving Zoll some valuable trade chips to pursue established major league talent.

There are plenty of different directions the organization could take. However, if I were putting together Minnesota's offseason plan using our Offseason Blueprint tool, I would start with three roster departures, pursue two significant offensive trades, and bring in a pair of established relief pitchers. Here is what my ideal Twins offseason would look like.

A Trio of Trades or Non-Tenders

Royce Lewis, Bailey Ober, and Trevor Larnach are three players I would move on from this winter. Each has a different situation, but the common theme is that Minnesota could use the resources allocated to this trio elsewhere.

Lewis has struggled to establish himself as a consistent everyday player. His defensive situation became increasingly complicated last season as Brooks Lee took control of third base and emerged as a Gold Glove finalist. Lewis spent time in Triple-A before returning to Minnesota, but he never completely established himself in the team's plans. His offensive potential remains intriguing, but the Twins need more certainty from a player occupying such an important roster spot.

Ober presents another difficult decision. His declining velocity has become increasingly concerning, and Minnesota needs to determine whether he can still be a dependable part of its starting rotation. With several younger pitchers competing for opportunities, moving Ober could create additional flexibility while opening a rotation spot.

Larnach is another player whose role has become difficult to justify. He provides some offensive production against right-handed pitching, but his defensive limitations restrict his everyday value. As his salary increases, the Twins have to consider whether that type of player deserves a regular roster spot.

Moving on from these three players would free up approximately $18.3 million. That money could be redirected toward positions where Minnesota needs more reliable production.

Two Offensive Upgrade Trades

Minnesota has invested heavily in its farm system, and some of that organizational depth could help address major league weaknesses. Rather than waiting for prospects to develop, Zoll should explore opportunities to turn some of that depth into established contributors.

My first target would be Oakland Athletics catcher Shea Langeliers, who carries an estimated $8.7 million salary. Langeliers would give Minnesota another legitimate offensive threat behind the plate while providing some flexibility with Victor Caratini. The Twins should not have to depend on Caratini to handle the majority of the catching responsibilities, particularly after his disappointing second half.

Langeliers has developed into one of the more productive offensive catchers in baseball. During the 2026 season, he hit .262/.328/.474 with 23 home runs and 58 RBI in 424 at-bats. His .802 OPS and power production would represent a significant addition to Minnesota's lineup. He also brings some long-term value, with team control extending through the 2029 season. His acquisition helps bridge the gap until top prospect Vahn Lackey is ready to take over behind the plate. This is also going to take quite the prospect package to make it happen. 

The second offensive target would be St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Alec Burleson, who carries an estimated $8.3 million salary. First base has been an area where Minnesota needs more stability and offensive production. Burleson would address both concerns while giving the Twins another dependable middle-of-the-order option.

The 27-year-old enjoyed an impressive 2026 campaign, hitting .279/.343/.473 with 26 home runs and 116 RBI across 670 plate appearances. He also collected 37 doubles and 169 hits. His 116 RBI ranked near the top in the National League.

Burleson has demonstrated that he can produce over a full season, and he would give Minnesota a consistent left-handed bat capable of driving in runs. Adding him alongside Langeliers would provide two established offensive contributors without requiring the Twins to rely entirely on free agency.

Neither trade would come without a prospect cost, but Minnesota has the organizational depth to make these types of moves. At some point, the Twins need to convert their farm system into major league production.

Two Bullpen Upgrades

The bullpen also needs attention after another season in which Minnesota struggled to find enough dependable late-inning options. Adding one quality reliever would help, but I would rather see the Twins make two significant additions.

The first would be bringing back left-handed reliever A.J. Minter on a new contract worth approximately $10.33 million. Minnesota acquired Minter at last season's trade deadline, and he provided a valuable addition to the bullpen. He finished his 2026 campaign with a 2.56 ERA and 1.05 WHIP in 45 2/3 innings with the Twins, striking out 41 batters.

Minter would immediately give Minnesota an experienced left-handed option capable of handling important situations. The Twins need an upgrade over Kody Funderburk in the top left-handed relief role, and Minter has already demonstrated that he can succeed in Minnesota.

The second addition would be right-hander Bryan Abreu on a contract worth approximately $9 million. Abreu is a familiar name for Twins fans because Minnesota reportedly attempted to acquire him from Houston at last year's trade deadline in a potential deal involving Trevor Larnach. However, Astros owner Jim Crane reportedly stepped in and prevented the trade from happening.

The Twins should revisit that interest this winter. Abreu finished 2026 with a 3.73 ERA, 1.36 WHIP, and 80 strikeouts across 62 2/3 innings. He also recorded nine saves and 16 holds. His strikeout ability gives him an opportunity to become an important late-inning weapon.

Although his ERA and WHIP were higher than his previous season's numbers, Abreu still demonstrated the ability to miss bats and handle high-leverage situations. Pairing him with Minter would give Minnesota two experienced additions and create more flexibility throughout the bullpen.

The Big Picture

This offseason blueprint would put the Twins at an estimated $136.78 million payroll, approximately 1.30% above the $135 million target established by Twins Daily. That figure represents a relatively modest increase compared to some of Minnesota's previous payrolls, but it would give Zoll the opportunity to make several meaningful roster improvements. The Twins would move on from three players whose roles have become increasingly complicated, add two established offensive contributors, and strengthen the bullpen with a pair of experienced relievers.

More importantly, this plan would demonstrate that Minnesota is serious about competing in 2027. Pohlad has spent considerable time discussing the organization's desire to become a consistent postseason contender. During the team's September news conference, he reiterated that a payroll around $100 million would not be sufficient to accomplish those goals and promised that ownership intends to meaningfully invest in the roster.

Those comments create expectations, and the upcoming offseason is where the organization needs to start delivering. The Twins cannot continue asking fans to be patient while relying on the same roster construction that has failed to produce consistent postseason results. There are talented young players throughout the organization, but those players need established major league teammates who can help turn potential into wins.

A $135 million payroll would not put Minnesota among baseball's biggest spenders, but it should be enough to construct a much more competitive roster if the front office makes smart decisions. This blueprint would address several weaknesses without requiring an enormous financial commitment.

Zoll has the opportunity to reshape this roster, and Minnesota has the financial flexibility and prospect depth to make it happen. The Twins have talked about raising expectations. Now it is time to build a team capable of meeting them.

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Will these moves be enough to get the Twins back to the playoffs in 2027? What would you change? Leave a comment and start the discussion.

Image courtesy of Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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[Brandon]

I actually like these moves if Burleson could be pried away from St Louis.  The A's C is possible no questions here.  Depends on what we give up.  I wonder if we could include any of Ober, Lewis, and Larnarch in your trades to lighten the prospect cost.  

On the relievers, I think they both can get at least 2 years maybe 3.  Or two with an option.  

[Whammy]

22 minutes ago, Brandon said:

I actually like these moves if Burleson could be pried away from St Louis.  The A's C is possible no questions here.   

With respect... what moves?

He just said "I want these guys," not what he thinks it would actually take to get them. That's not a blueprint. That's a wish list. 

[MeleMouth]

Langeliers is the only C on the Athletics' 40-man. Why would they trade their only catcher and what would the Twins trade for him? And how with what's left in the system would you get Burleson? I would expect someone with Cory's experience to explain how he would accomplish his proposed trades. You even say "This is also going to take quite the prospect package to make it happen." But the Twins have barely any tradeable prospects beyond Lackey and Houston, and they seem close to untouchable, and neither team would want Houston and St. Louis wouldn't be interested in Lackey. 

Otherwise, if we don't have to discuss cost and other teams' agency, just say that you'll put together your blueprint by adding Willson Contreras, Geraldo Perdomo, Jacob deGrom, and Aaron Ashby. Tada - winners!

[Nashvilletwin]

Add a C and a 1B plus two FA RPs.  Jettison Larnach, Ober, and Lewis.   What an incredibly insightful blueprint, 

Do people actually get paid to write this sort of stuff?  If so, about 90% of TDers should be on staff because they’ve been writing the same thing for weeks. 

[Cris E]

To get Langoliers you'd need to open with Diaw and a LOT of young pitching. 

To get Burleson you'd need to open with ERod to fill their CF spot and then pile on the young pitching. 

This is a silly piece without any sort of cost analysis.  I mean, neither of these teams is in win-now mode, so neither Ryan or Kremer nor any other 25 man roster names would really appeal to them. Maaaybe Lewis makes some sense for STL after they trade away their 1B (and they do have serious doubts at 3B already.) But honestly he's a year of free oil changes, not a significant part of any deal.

You're making two high cost, prospects-forward deals at a time when we're pushing our own youth movement.  How many guys you think we got?

[Cris E]

Forgot to add: I do like the idea of both the headliners here.  Great ideas, no way we can afford both.

I think a worse catcher from San Diego is more realistic because they do value our MLB pitching more highly after losing their entire rotation to free agency.  So maybe we send a young pitcher, Ober plus cash, and more youth. They are very sensitive to cost right now, and the farm system is in shambles so they aren't taking on real money and they need prospects.

[nova_twins]

I disagree that the Twins have the prospect capital to accomplish this road map.

[tony&rodney]

With all due respect, you fail to list the roster, you do not guess on what the Twins send to West Sacramento or St. Louis for their players, and you do not tell us the length of the contracts to the relief pitchers. Until the readers/viewers have that specific information it is impossible to judge your proposal. I'm looking forward to a blueprint with explanations submitted in Twins Talk.

Or ... did my feed not show your entire post where you list the players and their salaries, who was traded, and how many years the free agents received. 

[LA Vikes Fan]

Help me understand something, why on earth would St. Louis trade Alec Burleson? He's in his prime, good, and not too expensive. He won't become a free agent until 2029. St. Louis is sort of rebuilding but they're trying and expect to compete before 2029. It's not like they're doing a full teardown. Langeliers might be gettable, but not for some unnamed young pitcher plus Bailey Ober. He's going to cost you at least one top 10 prospect, plus a couple more in your top 20, and that's only because the A's are willing to tear down and rebuild. Thank something like Riley Quick or Diaw plus Gabriel Gonzalez plus Marco Raya. Not sure I'm willing to do that deal but I respect someone who says that's what they're going to be willing to do it because I think it's the right move.

I really enjoy these off-season blueprints because I think they're fun and good food for thought. Having said that, if you're going to do an off-season blueprint that includes trades, you have to list what you're giving up by name. Otherwise, it's just too easy to say "my blueprint is to get a good young player from another team by trading a couple minor league guys I don't really think we want or need, plus some veterans on the downside of their careers". Same with FAs. If you're going to add free agents, detail the contract you are going to offer and make a good argument that they would actually accept that, including references to the predictions on websites that actually know something about what similar free agents have historically been paid. We each have to think it through make this exercise fun. C'mon Cody, you can do better than this. 

[bjorks]

The only player I'd want to get from St. Louis that is somewhat realistic is Leo Bernal. He threw out 39% of runners in the Texas League and in his 100 AB cup of coffee he slashed .284/.333/.807 with 5 HRs and 21 RBIs. Arguably he would become the #1 defensive catcher in the system (Lackey just needs to show he's #1), but the best part is Bernal also is a more than capable 1B who is also a switch hitter.

He is a luxury for StL with Rodriguez being the clear future. Maybe the thinking is Bernal would move to 1B and Jimmy Crooks could back up Rodriguez, but Bernal is exactly who I would target as you're getting position flexibility, team control, and quality. If Lackey proves to be the star we think is, Bernal as a FT/Platoon 1B with Clemens is not the worst thing in the world. Lackey is not a sure thing and Bernal had an amazing debut this fall. 

It would take a heckuva an offer to get Bernal, but I would not hesitate to offer something like ERod, Roden, and Charlee Soto for Bernal and a flyer on maybe Tekoah Roby or Cooper Hjerpe as bullpen pieces. 

[thelanges5]

Looks like Burleson is a no:

https://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2026/11/cardinals-reportedly-turned-away-trade-interest-in-burleson-winn.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=bluesky

[IndianaTwin]

2 hours ago, Brandon said:

I actually like these moves if Burleson could be pried away from St Louis.  The A's C is possible no questions here.  Depends on what we give up.  I wonder if we could include any of Ober, Lewis, and Larnarch in your trades to lighten the prospect cost.  

On the relievers, I think they both can get at least 2 years maybe 3.  Or two with an option.  

Doubtful a 98-loss team like the A's has interest in Ober or Larnach and their one year of control. Maaaaaybe a little openness on Lewis's two years, but probably not much.

[tony&rodney]

1 hour ago, bjorks said:

The only player I'd want to get from St. Louis that is somewhat realistic is Leo Bernal. He threw out 39% of runners in the Texas League and in his 100 AB cup of coffee he slashed .284/.333/.807 with 5 HRs and 21 RBIs. Arguably he would become the #1 defensive catcher in the system (Lackey just needs to show he's $1), but the best part is Bernal also is a more than capable 1B who is also a switch hitter.

He is a luxury for StL with Rodriguez being the clear future. Maybe the thinking is Bernal would move to 1B and Jimmy Crooks could back up Rodriguez, but Bernal is exactly who I would target as your getting position flexibility, team control, and quality. If Lackey proves to be the star we think is, Bernal as a FT/Platoon 1B with Clemens is not the worst thing in the world. Lackey is not a sure thing and Bernal had an amazing debut this fall. 

It would take a heckuva an offer to get Bernal, but I would not hesitate to offer something like ERod, Roden, and Charlee Soto for Bernal and a flyer on maybe Tekoah Roby or Cooper Hjerpe as bullpen pieces. 

In a version of my 2027 Twins team I put down a trade of Kremer, DeBarge, and Quick for Bernal. I just don't think the Cardinals are listening on Bernal though.

[Brandon]

1 hour ago, IndianaTwin said:

Doubtful a 98-loss team like the A's has interest in Ober or Larnach and their one year of control. Maaaaaybe a little openness on Lewis's two years, but probably not much.

Maybe make it a three team deal.  Where Ober nets a prospect Oakland wants as part of the return.  

[HerbieFan]

I like where you're going Cody in terms of payroll additions...the dollar amounts at least.  I agree with a lot of other commenters, I'll just be nicer about it...I just don't see giving up the type of prospect capital it would take to get those two hitters specifically.

I 100% think the trade avenue is the one the FO takes here though.  It's the only way to add talent while still being able to somewhat dictate dollar amounts.  Free agency is always an overpay and even with ownership saying payroll will be increased, it's still good to be smart about it.

[Mike Sixel]

Hahaha. No, really. 

[weitz41]

I don't disagree with the players you targeted. The cost is the issue for me. Ober, larnach and Lewis probably wouldn't get you Burleson. The A's know what Langeliers value is. Likely Houston or Culpepper to even start negotiating, I also like the BP ideas

If I have the upper hand and looking to get the Twins to the playoffs. Also, payroll isn't a real issue. I'd call the Diamondbacks and say hey. I'll take that headcase Marte off your hands for a couple 15-30 prospects. they can then take that payroll relief and invest into their starting rotation. then call the Giants and see how badly they want to move Devers. That may cost Ober/Kremer plus Lewis and Larnach.

That's going big. for me. Plus, BP additions.

It's completely unrealistic but think about it.

1 Keaschall

2 Marte

3 Buxton

4 Devers

5 Jenkins

6 Culpepper

7 Emma

8 Lee

9 a catcher who plays good D and throws people out.

Bench: Carantini, Clemens, Martin/Roden and Ross/Kreidler

Ryan, Bradley, Lopez, Prielipp and one of Ober/Kremer as your starting 5.

That team if relatively healthy is winning 85+ games.

[tony&rodney]

52 minutes ago, weitz41 said:

I don't disagree with the players you targeted. The cost is the issue for me. Ober, larnach and Lewis probably wouldn't get you Burleson. The A's know what Langeliers value is. Likely Houston or Culpepper to even start negotiating, I also like the BP ideas

If I have the upper hand and looking to get the Twins to the playoffs. Also, payroll isn't a real issue. I'd call the Diamondbacks and say hey. I'll take that headcase Marte off your hands for a couple 15-30 prospects. they can then take that payroll relief and invest into their starting rotation. then call the Giants and see how badly they want to move Devers. That may cost Ober/Kremer plus Lewis and Larnach.

I'm not sure Cody is suggesting that Burleson and or Langeliers are acquired with any of Ober,  Larnach, and Lewis. He suggested that prospects would be involved, but he doesn't tell us if that is Jenkins or whomever and he hasn't reacted or responded with any answers. So his blueprint is still being built.

Marte would be a pretty decent pick up. Arizona would maybe listen if it included Houston, Prielipp, and Roden. Marte is available ..... for a price. Teams know how good Marte is but also know he can be problematic. His skills make him valuable and he is signed for 5 more years at a pretty reasonable salary. I not sure who will offer what players but the Diamondbacks would be throwing in the towel to give him away. I wish I was wrong and the Twins could acquire Marte for two #15-30 prospects. That would be sweet for the Twins.

Devers is a terrific bat but also mercurial. I'm not at all guessing on what San Fran would take to escape/trade Raffy Devers. Devers still has more than $200M left on his contract. Cannot see it. Thing is .... Devers can hit like a $30M per year player.

Love that your response goes big. It does escape those plans that essentially return the same old roster.

We can only hope that Zoll and his boys have some conversations and step away from the same old, same old.

 

[bjorks]

40 minutes ago, tony&rodney said:

I'm not sure Cody is suggesting that Burleson and or Langeliers are acquired with any of Ober,  Larnach, and Lewis. He suggested that prospects would be involved, but he doesn't tell us if that is Jenkins or whomever and he hasn't reacted or responded with any answers. So his blueprint is still being built.

Marte would be a pretty decent pick up. Arizona would maybe listen if it included Houston, Prielipp, and Roden. Marte is available ..... for a price. Teams know how good Marte is but also know he can be problematic. His skills make him valuable and he is signed for 5 more years at a pretty reasonable salary. I not sure who will offer what players but the Diamondbacks would be throwing in the towel to give him away. I wish I was wrong and the Twins could acquire Marte for two #15-30 prospects. That would be sweet for the Twins.

Devers is a terrific bat but also mercurial. I'm not at all guessing on what San Fran would take to escape/trade Raffy Devers. Devers still has more than $200M left on his contract. Cannot see it. Thing is .... Devers can hit like a $30M per year player.

Love that your response goes big. It does escape those plans that essentially return the same old roster.

We can only hope that Zoll and his boys have some conversations and step away from the same old, same old.

 

Followed the Marte drama quite closely and he's not the guy people think he is. He's no longer a CF option, but could play LF/RF in a pinch, but the "cost" would not be nearly as high as Houston, Prielipp, and Roden. This is a classic case of a change of scenery would be good for both parties. While he's still under team control through '30 w/player option in '31 for $11.5MM in his age 37 season, not sure he would get much more if he opted out. Contract doesn't age great ($13.5MM in '27, $20MM in '28, $22 in '29 and '30) but if the snakes wanted prospect(s) back, they'd have to pay a bit. 

It's a perfect scenario hypothetically to move our malcontent Lewis and maybe someone like Gabby G. for Marte and filler. The filler I'd take a flyer on is AJ Puk who was solid before elbow issues and is a solid bounce back candidate, but you'd probably have to add on the Twins side a little bit. Maybe Marte, Puk, $10MM for Lewis, Gonzalez, and Marco Raya would get it done. Mercedes could replace Gabby in there as well since he's running out of options. He actually fits fairly close to the OF profile they like. 

As for my original thoughts on Leo Bernal, sounds like the Cards are entertaining moving Rodriguez to 3B, Bernal stays behind the dish with Crooks backing up. It's a helluva dilemma to have and hopefully in about 4 years, we have Lackey behind the plate, Tait at 3B/1B/RF and Tinney at 1B/DH. The Cards are the envy of a lot of teams with their catching riches. 

[darin617]

I'd rather pay Bednar 20m+ over Minter and Abreu for 20m. 

They need a legit closer if they want to compete. They also do need a lefty bullpen arm.

[tony&rodney]

1 hour ago, bjorks said:

Followed the Marte drama quite closely and he's not the guy people think he is. He's no longer a CF option, but could play LF/RF in a pinch, but the "cost" would not be nearly as high as Houston, Prielipp, and Roden. This is a classic case of a change of scenery would be good for both parties. While he's still under team control through '30 w/player option in '31 for $11.5MM in his age 37 season, not sure he would get much more if he opted out. Contract doesn't age great ($13.5MM in '27, $20MM in '28, $22 in '29 and '30) but if the snakes wanted prospect(s) back, they'd have to pay a bit. 

It's a perfect scenario hypothetically to move our malcontent Lewis and maybe someone like Gabby G. for Marte and filler. The filler I'd take a flyer on is AJ Puk who was solid before elbow issues and is a solid bounce back candidate, but you'd probably have to add on the Twins side a little bit. Maybe Marte, Puk, $10MM for Lewis, Gonzalez, and Marco Raya would get it done. Mercedes could replace Gabby in there as well since he's running out of options. He actually fits fairly close to the OF profile they like. 

As for my original thoughts on Leo Bernal, sounds like the Cards are entertaining moving Rodriguez to 3B, Bernal stays behind the dish with Crooks backing up. It's a helluva dilemma to have and hopefully in about 4 years, we have Lackey behind the plate, Tait at 3B/1B/RF and Tinney at 1B/DH. The Cards are the envy of a lot of teams with their catching riches. 

Ok, that is interesting. I don't have a feel for Marte's value.

[tarheeltwinsfan]

Sign free agent Austin Hedges for 1 year at 4.5 million with a second year Twins option at 5 million. Thus no prospects are lost. Hedges is a strong defensive catcher and his poor offense will be OK on the Twins due to the  Twins having scored the second most runs in the American League last year. Hedges salary is less than Jeffers was. Thus a savings at catcher. He would be a great mentor for Lackey in 2028. Sign Tyler France for 2 years at 18 million per year. No prospects are lost. France's salary will be made up by releasing or trading Lewis, Ober and Larnach.  France increases the defense for the entire infield. Helps the pitching staff. Houston is added to the Major League roster sometime in 2027 and the Twins have the best fielding IF in the American League : Lee at 3B, Houston at SS, Culpepper at 2B and France at 1B. and Hedges at catcher. Sign Minter and Abreu as suggested. No prospects are lost in trades. Put either Prielipp or Rojas in relief for a third lefthanded reliever to go with Funderburk and Minter. I rest my case. NO PROSPECTS ARE LOST.

[Mai.K]

We should also consider Roh Si-hwan, who is currently posted from the KBO, as an option at first base.

He’s primarily a third baseman, but he can also play first. He offers a combination of power and defensive ability, and at just 25 years old (born in 2000), he still has plenty of room to develop.

His plate discipline is certainly a concern, but...

We wouldn’t have to give up any prospects in a trade, we wouldn’t need to commit tens of millions of dollars, and he’s a posted player who could potentially be signed for a reasonable price.

I’d really like to see our team take a closer look at him.

[bjorks]

1 hour ago, tony&rodney said:

Ok, that is interesting. I don't have a feel for Marte's value.

It’s not that he doesn’t have value, but mid 30 year olds with that much money due are going to get MLB players in return as opposed to top prospects. The snakes are also in a win now mode making MLB players a bit more valuable than a 21 year old A+ guy. If you could “offload” Lewis/Ober (or Kremer) for Marte SU, would be a no brainer, but I’d guess they have to sweeten it with. Raya or Mercedes type and even that may not be enough but EVERYONE in the desert is in some form of agreement a change of scenery is needed. It would give Royce a fresh start. Arenado is aging rapidly at 3B, Marte opens up 2B, and Vargas was a 1/2 season flash in the pan at 1B.