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MLB’s offseason is well underway, but many of the biggest questions remain unanswered, especially for the Twins. While some fans might be growing impatient, it’s worth remembering that the team still has appealing options. With key decisions looming, here’s a look at the Twins' most significant questions and what fans might expect in the coming weeks.
Can the Twins Win the Roki Sasaki Recruiting Battle?
Japanese starting pitcher Roki Sasaki is the crown jewel of this offseason. His talent is undeniable, and signing him would instantly elevate the Twins’ rotation to one of the best in baseball. Over the past four seasons, Sasaki posted a 2.10 ERA with 505 strikeouts, and just 88 walks in 394 2/3 innings, with a triple-digit fastball and a devastating slider. The competition will be fierce, with big-market teams like the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees all in the mix. However, the Twins have shown a willingness to invest in international talent, and their ability to improve pitching talent could play in their favor (e.g. Pablo López, Joe Ryan, etc.). Because of rules about players who come over from Japan at any age below 25 years old, Sasaki can't be paid anywhere near the market value of his services. That pushes other considerations to the forefront.
"He doesn't seem to look at it in the typical way that other players do," agent Joel Wolfe said. "He has a more long-term, global view of things. I believe Roki is also very interested in the pitching development and how a team is going to help him get better, both in the near future and over the course of his career. He didn't seem overly concerned about whether a team had Japanese players on their team or not, which, in the past, when I represented Japanese players, that was sometimes an issue. That was never a topic of discussion."
Sasaki’s decision will hinge on more than just money. Teams that can present a clear path to winning and an environment conducive to his transition to MLB life will have an edge. While the odds might not favor a smaller-market team like Minnesota, the Twins are making a serious push. Fans should temper expectations, but remain hopeful that Sasaki could call Target Field home in 2025.
Which Veterans Will Be Traded?
Three names stand out as important trade candidates: Chris Paddack, Christian Vázquez, and Willi Castro.
Chris Paddack: Paddack returned from Tommy John surgery last season and posted a 4.99 ERA with a 1.39 WHIP. The Twins have young starting pitching depth, so Paddack and his $7.5 million salary are considered expendable. Moving him and his salary might even be an imperative. Starting pitching has been a premium in free agency this season, making Paddack a more attractive trade candidate.
Christian Vázquez: Trading Vázquez would clear $10 million in payroll space, but it’s a risky move. His leadership and ability to manage a pitching staff are invaluable, especially with a young rotation. If the Twins move Vázquez, they’ll need a clear plan for his replacement, which will likely require signing another veteran catcher.
Willi Castro: Castro’s versatility makes him a valuable trade chip, particularly for teams needing a utility player. Last season, he was a first-time All-Star with a .774 OPS in the first half. He struggled in the second half with a .627 OPS. He is expected to earn more than $6 million in arbitration, but the Twins might be hesitant to part ways unless they receive impact players in 2025.
After Carlos Santana's Departure, Who's On First?
The Twins have a glaring hole at first base, now that Carlos Santana has signed a one-year, $12-million deal with Cleveland. Several internal and external options are being considered:
Internal Options: Edouard Julien and José Miranda could slide over to first base. Julien’s bat struggled in 2024, but there are signs that he's set to bounce back in 2025. If the Twins move him to first, it could mitigate some of his defensive struggles at second base. Miranda, meanwhile, offers versatility and a solid bat—when he can stay healthy. He hit .326/.366/.522 (.888) in the first half, before collapsing with a .543 OPS in the second half. First basemen are expected to produce at a high level, so both players must return to their previous offensive profiles.
Free Agent Market: Pete Alonso is the biggest name among free-agent first basemen, but is out of the Twins’ owner-imposed payroll range. Minnesota signed Mike Ford to a minor-league deal Thursday, and he has some potential upside. Veteran players like Justin Turner, Donovan Solano, and Connor Joe produced more than 2.0 WAR last season. However, they might not offer as much upside as Minnesota’s internal options.
What Can Fans Expect in the Coming Weeks?
The Twins’ front office has generally been quiet in December, before ramping up in January. Both times the team signed Carlos Correa and previous big moves like Josh Donaldson’s signing highlight their tendency to make a splash after the holiday season. The front office waits for the more prominent free agents to sign so that teams are more open to trades, which is where the Twins can make their biggest splash this winter. They acquired López in the second half of January two years ago, for instance.
Bullpen Moves: Minnesota already traded Jovani Morán, but that won’t be the offseason headline. The Twins will look to add depth to a bullpen that struggled with inconsistency in 2024. There has been some discussion about the team trading Jhoan Durán or Griffin Jax, but the front office would need to be overwhelmed in a return for either player.
Impact Bat: Mickey Gasper was the player the Twins acquired for Morán, but he’s hardly the answer to the Twins’ lineup needs. Adding a power bat remains a priority, be it through trade or free agency. A right-handed platoon power hitter could add an element lacking in recent seasons.
Roster Shuffling: Several smaller moves to address depth and flexibility, including potentially trading from their surplus of young pitching, could happen before pitchers and catchers report.
The Twins’ offseason is far from over, and big moves are likely on the horizon. Whether it’s the potential acquisition of Roki Sasaki, the resolution of trade rumors involving veterans, or the search for a new first baseman, fans should expect an active and impactful January. The front office’s track record suggests that while the current quiet might be frustrating, the coming weeks will bring answers to these pressing questions.
What moves should fans expect from the front office? Leave a comment and start the discussion.
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