Twins Video
Nelson Cruz Unlikely to Head to Chicago
While the news of Andrelton Simmons put a smile on the face of Twins’ fans, one big question still remains.
What will happen with Nelson Cruz?
To the comfort of many Twins fans, there have been two strong signs that sparked this week indicating that Cruz is likely to stay with the Twins.
1. On Monday the MLBPA rejected an offer from the MLB for a universal DH and expanded postseason according to sources. While the door is still open for conversation, it’s unlikely that the DH will expand its horizons to the National League in 2021. In other words, Cruz’s market is just the American League.
2. Reports last week indicated that the White Sox had shown interest in Nelson Cruz. However, USA Today writer and MLB Network Insider Bob Nightengale tweeted Wednesday evening that the White Sox have shown no interest in the slugger.
https://twitter.com/BNightengale/status/1354593689926950914
The White Sox just spent $54 million on elite closer Liam Hendricks. The Twins have a healthy lump of spending money left for the offseason, even after signing Simmons to a one-year $10.5 million contract.
The point?
It’s unlikely that Cruz will be wearing anything but red, white, and powder blue in 2021. The talented hitter and clubhouse leader has expressed his love for playing in Minnesota and it’s likely that he’ll be back in 2021.
J.A. Happ on the Hot Stove
One of the newest members of the Twins joined Kris Atteberry on WCCO Radio for the Twins Hot Stove Show.
With a pleasant demeanor, Happ chatted about his training program, pitching philosophy, and confidence in preparing to pitch every five days throughout his career.
Happ also outlined his childhood experiences with baseball and sports in general. Despite his talent in baseball, the Illinois native grew up tabbing basketball as his main sport, following in his father’s footsteps. Following high school, Happ decided to continue with baseball. The decision didn’t disappoint.
Happ touched on his playing time with Josh Donaldson (Toronto) and Nelson Cruz (Seattle). The veteran lefty had nothing but positives to say about both stars.
“When (Josh Donaldson) is on the field, he’s an MVP caliber player all the time,” Happ said of his former teammate on the Blue Jays. “He’s got a really good understanding of baseball and helping other guys too, I think he likes to do that.”
And while it’s been over five years since Happ played with Cruz, the veteran lefty didn’t forget the value that Cruz brings to an MLB clubhouse.
"I remember a lot of positivity from him, a nice, outgoing personality. The guy just continues to put up numbers year in and year out.”
Happ also commented on the other marquee signing that the organization made last night. While he hasn’t played with Andrelton Simmons, Happ knows the impact that the electric shortstop brings to the game.
“He legitimately gets mad when a ball is out of his reach, he goes after everything,” Happ said. “From the other side (of the field), he makes a play every series that is pretty absurd. To see him on a day in and day out for a season, that’s going to make for a fun year.”
While Happ’s time in Minnesota has just begun, it seems that he’ll be a likable figure both on and off the diamond for the Twins in 2021.
O’Day to the Yankees
The Bronx Bombers didn’t wait long to fulfill the bullpen spot of Adam Ottovino after the organization traded the right-handed to Boston on Monday. Sources reported that the Yankees signed submarine right-hander pitcher Darren O’Day to a one-year $2.5 million deal on Wednesday afternoon.
O’Day comes to the Big Apple after two seasons with the Atlanta Braves where he allowed just two runs in 16 and a third innings over 19 appearances.
A 2015 all-star with the Orioles, O’Day will likely join Chad Green and Zach Britton as setup men for Aroldis Chapman.
While eyes have stuck to the aggressive moves made by the White Sox, Mets, and Blue Jays, the Yankees have had an effective offseason, to say the least. O’Day joins a free-agent class of Corey Kluber and DJ Lemahieu to sign (and re-sign) with the pinstripes.
Matz to the Blue Jays for Three Prospects
News broke late Wednesday night that the Blue Jays and Mets have solidified a deal for starter pitcher Steven Matz. Matz will head to the Blue Jays in exchange for Mets' pitching prospects Sean Reid-Foley, Yennsy Diaz, and Sean Winckowski.
https://twitter.com/JeffPassan/status/1354618443463536640
While the move in itself is significant, the biggest takeaway is that the trade opens up a roster spot on the Mets for either Kris Bryant or highly coveted pitcher Trevor Bauer.
https://twitter.com/Feinsand/status/1354625472982904835
Not only will the Mets have an open rotation slot to fill, but an additional $5.2 million of payroll. Big things are happening in Queens, and it wouldn't be shocking if the reigning NL Cy Young winner joined former Twin Trevor May on the Mets.
(Virtual) TWINS FEST!
The pandemic has altered the world in a variety of ways, and while we’d love to gather at Target Field to celebrate Twins Fest, the safety of our community must come first.
But fear not!
While it may look different, Twins Fest 2021 will take place virtually this Saturday from 9 am-4 pm on all the Twins social media platforms as well as 830 WCCO Radio.
The event may look different but the purpose and excitement will stay as strong as ever, with the event featuring player interviews, an introduction to ‘Fun is Good’ with Mike Veeck, and many giveaways and auction items.
Most importantly, proceeds from the event will benefit the Minnesota Twins Community Fund in an effort to strengthen communities across Twins Territory. All viewers who donate $50 or more will receive a Twins/Caribou Coffee beanie (while supplies last) as a thank you for supporting the efforts of growing baseball and communities across the region.
Grab some popcorn, crack a beer, and tune in for an offseason program that will brighten your day!
More information on Twins Fest 2020 here.
More Offseason News from Twins Daily
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