Statistically MSP and surrounding area is not small town/market. They have had the highest payroll in the division for several years. The problem is the foolish way they spent on has been/ never were veteran players that were terrible then compounded that mistake by continuing to play them.
Anyway you look at the organizational downturn/dysfunction all roads lead back to Falvey. He makes the decisions and the best decision seems to be to not have him in the building making the decisions.
Today in MLB $21.75 mil isn't all that expensive for a guy with López age, history, and upside. If they want to move him there will be multiple offers. I'm worried that Falvey is the one evaluating the offers.
Out of this list Ober will be the 1st traded. Teams are always looking for starting pitchers. Some team will think they have the approach/coach to get him back on track to being an above average 4-5 slot starter. He's also in MLB terms cheap so affordable for many teams.