Paging Max Kepler: Rockies Looking To Acquire Left-Handed Outfielder

It's a reasonable fit, but much like Polanco I'd hate to see Kepler moved in a salary dump. As part of a package to improve the rotation? More interested, but a little concerned that we're actually a little thin in the corners right now and would be asking a lot out of Larnach, who hasn't shown he can perform consistently (i.e., hit a curveball) in the majors.

27 minutes ago, Brock Beauchamp said:

Thomas Harding of MLB.com reported today the Rockies are interested in acquiring a lefty-hitting outfielder, preferably one who can play all three outfield positions.

Max Kepler hasn't played center field in a few years - and reportedly doesn't like playing the position - but is widely considered capable of being a spot starter up the middle. With only one year remaining on his contract, he's a relatively low-cost addition that could shore up the Rockies' lineup while also covering enormous ground in the spacious Coors Field grass.

Additionally, the Twins also have Trevor Larnach waiting in the wings and now at 26 years old, he needs a chance to play on a consistent basis. Should the Rockies balk at Kepler's salary or prospect cost, the Twins could consider moving Larnach in his place.

 

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Send Wallner.

Nick Gordon can play outfield and hits lefthanded.

Chuckle a little bit every time I read a post where Brock sends off Kepler. Can your health take another year of Max? 

9 minutes ago, Rod Carews Birthday said:

LF Larnach, He could have some issues but he needs a chance to turn the corner (and not get hurt doing so).

Larnach seems like a guy who could be ok, but he has had a number of chances. Maybe he gets another shot and blossoms. I would argue that the Twins really need Kepler. If Kepler were to be traded, i would hand the job to Austin Martin or Willi Castro in hopes of better offense and defense than expected from Larnach.

16 hours ago, DJL44 said:

Nick Gordon can play outfield and hits lefthanded.

Trade him for a PTBNL - done

The Rockies aren't adding payroll (ever).

On 1/8/2024 at 4:56 PM, RpR said:

Send Wallner.

NOT!

2 hours ago, nicksaviking said:

Ever? They had a 170M payroll last year.

I mean this club is awful and should be starting over, but spending money hasn't been an issue with them.

It seems like we're in agreement. 😁

Rockies don't want to add that much payroll on a one0year rental. Plus, they have little to offer in terms of usable pitching. Unless you ship them Gordon or larnach, but for...what.

On 1/8/2024 at 4:54 PM, nicksaviking said:

I'm fine moving Kepler, but the Rockies have absolutely nothing on their active roster that I want on the Twins roster

How much of Kris Bryant's salary are they willing to pay down for him to play for the Twins? They owe $136M over the next 5 years but I doubt he would get 60% of that in free agency. 

The contract Bryant has means the Rockies are never going to be able to move him unless they pay $100 million of it.  On paper, Kris Bryant would be a good fit.  RH bat, LF and possibly some 1B in his future.  He IS talented.  He's just NEVER healthy and already having Buxton means it would never work for the Twins.  

Larnach is an obvious choice if there is ANYTHING not named Dollander the twins would have interest in.  Every day that goes by with E-Rod and Walker Jenkins showing promise and improvement, is a day that hastens any usefulness Larnach may have for the Twins.  I just don't think there's anything on the roster or in the mid to high minors in Colorado even worth Larnach.  I'll have to check on this a little more.  

Larnach to CO, hits 50 bombs in coors, 2 on the road. 

Only thing I think of is one of there starters. Their numbers are terrible of course but going from Coors to Target would be - could be a huge difference.

I would be willing to add a lotto ticket for German Marquez who has 2 years at for 10 mil ave salary ... Coming back from TJ but would be a "Good" gamble. 

Stallings & Hudson were good adds to CO. Hudson has a pretty good GB% which plays well at Coors. If he dominates with a high fastball for lift-happy HR hitters, he could have a successful season in CO.

 A lot of CO players are underrated. All their pitchers could do better elsewhere. Catching prospects Romo & Carrigg are tremendously underrated, they both have great arms, are athletic, productive switch-hitters with the potential to become elite catchers. Romo will make it to the Majors this season but IMO Carrigg has the highest upside. It'd be nice if MN could nab one of them but how cheap they are why not go for both?

On 1/11/2024 at 1:51 PM, August J Gloop said:

Larnach to CO, hits 50 bombs in coors, 2 on the road. 

Thin air, curves don't bend as well, balls sail farther. That sounds like what Larnach needs. Now, convince their front office.