Cody Christie

Last season, Willi Castro became a first-time All-Star for the Twins after a tremendous first half. Which players have the potential to follow in his footsteps in 2025? Image courtesy of © Orlando Ramirez- Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins boast a roster with multiple established stars, but a new wave of talent is primed to take center stage. Five Twins have the potential to earn their first career All-Star nods this season. Each player has flashed that kind of ability, and with continued growth, they could find themselves representing Minnesota in July. Let’s dive into why each of these five Twins could take that next step toward All-Star status in 2025. Griffin Jax Closest All-Star Season: 2024 Relievers usually need to be the team’s closer to make the All-Star Game, but Jax could be the exception to the rule. He had a 2.03 ERA, a 0.87 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts in 71 innings pitched in 2024. Jax finished with 10 saves and allowed just four home runs all year. He was worth 2.8 WAR, tied for seventh-most among all MLB relief pitchers. MLB Network left him off their list of the top 10 relievers entering the 2025 season, pointing to him being undervalued in national discussions. An argument could be made that he was the Twins' MVP last season, though, and he deserves more attention in 2025. Matt Wallner Closest All-Star Season: N/A Last season, Wallner looked lost at the plate in the season’s first month, hitting .080/.273/.240 with a strikeout rate over 50%. Minnesota sent him back to Triple-A St. Paul to rediscover his swing. He came back with a vengeance in the middle of the season. In 75 games, he hit .259/.372/.523 with 13 home runs and 17 doubles. Max Kepler left in free agency, giving Wallner the inside track to be the team’s everyday right fielder. Strikeouts will always be part of the cost of Wallner’s powerful swing, but avoiding some swing and miss could put him on pace to be one of the league’s best right fielders. Royce Lewis Closest All-Star Season: N/A Lewis’s best season came in 2023, when he hit .309/.372/.548 with a 149 OPS+ and accumulated 2.4 rWAR. Like Wallner, his value accrued in the season’s second half, so he didn’t have an opportunity to make the All-Star team. Last season, he hit a home run on Opening Day and got injured later in the game. There is some discussion about what defensive position Lewis will play regularly this season, which could impact how he does in the voting process. A hot start to 2025 could put him on pace to represent the team in the Midsummer Classic. Joe Ryan Closest All-Star Season: 2024 A strong argument could be made that Ryan deserved to be an All-Star for his first-half performance last season. In 19 starts, he posted a 3.53 ERA with a 1.00 WHIP, while holding opponents to a .668 OPS. According to FanGraphs, he had the seventh-highest WAR among AL pitchers in the first half. Ryan’s season ended on the mound in Chicago last year with a shoulder injury, but the Twins expect him to be fully ready for spring training. He’s among the league’s best pitchers, and some minor improvements can make him an All-Star in the 2025 season. Ryan Jeffers Closest All-Star Season: 2023 Jeffers was one of the AL’s best hitters through the end of May last season. He was hitting so well that the Twins regularly used him as the team’s DH on the days on which he wasn’t catching. In his first 51 games, he hit .256/.345/.547, with 12 home runs and 14 doubles. His performance nosedived from there, though, as he posted a .587 OPS for the final 24 games of the first half. Catcher is one of the easier positions at which to make the Midsummer Classic, since there is a need for up to three backstops on the roster. A more consistent first-half performance can put Jeffers on the path to being an All-Star. The Twins have a talented core, and 2025 could be the year several of their rising stars break through onto the national stage. Whether it’s Jax dominating out of the bullpen, Wallner showcasing his power, Lewis continuing his ascent as a franchise cornerstone, Ryan solidifying himself as an ace, or Jeffers emerging as one of the league’s top catchers, each player has a legitimate path to their first All-Star selection. If they deliver on their potential, the Twins could be well-represented when the game’s best gather for the Midsummer Classic. Which player has the best chance to be a first-time All-Star? Should someone else make the list? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Thanks. I updated the story. That would be fun if he could get that many triples.

A new ownership group could mean franchise-altering decisions during the 2025 season. Whoever the new owners are, their first priority should be locking up key roster pieces. Image courtesy of Matt Krohn and Matt Blewett–Imagn Images; Jonah Hinebaugh–USA TODAY NETWORK A new era is coming for the Minnesota Twins. Sometime in the first half of 2025, the franchise is expected to change hands, and while the new ownership group’s vision remains unknown, one thing seems inevitable: they’ll want to make an immediate impact. One way to do that? Locking in the team’s core talent for years to come. Extensions have long been a strategy for medium- and small-market teams to maintain competitiveness. By buying out arbitration years and securing players through their early free-agent seasons, the Twins can provide stability for the roster and the payroll. Minnesota saw the long-term benefits of this with Max Kepler and Jorge Polanco, who signed team-friendly deals early in their careers. Here’s a look at the top extension candidates, as a new ownership group is on the horizon. 1. Joe Ryan - A Clear Priority When the Twins acquired Ryan in the Nelson Cruz trade, few expected him to develop into one of the team’s top starters. However, since arriving in Minnesota, Ryan has established himself as a frontline pitcher while taking steps to improve his overall numbers. Last season, Ryan posted a 3.60 ERA (115 ERA+) with a 0.96 WHIP and a 27.3% strikeout rate. It was arguably his best season at the big-league level, thanks primarily to his emerging ability to fill up the strike zone; he walked a career-low 4.3% of opposing batters. The 28-year-old is arbitration-eligible for the first time in 2025 (making $3 million) and won’t hit free agency until after the 2027 season. Locking him up now would provide cost certainty for a potential ace, a move the Twins failed to make with past arms like José Berríos. A five- or six-year deal could secure Ryan’s best years (especially for a player who was older when he debuted) while ensuring the rotation has a dependable anchor. 2. Bailey Ober - A Reliable Rotation Piece Ober might not be as flashy as Ryan, but his importance to the Twins’ rotation can’t be overlooked. The 6-foot-9 right-hander has shown elite command, making him a stabilizing force for a team that has long battled pitching inconsistency. Over 178 2/3 innings last year, he posted a 3.98 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, and a career-high 191 strikeouts. His increased reliance on a devastating changeup and deceptive fastball has helped him keep hitters off-balance, leading to one of the lowest hard-hit rates among American League starters (83rd percentile). Like Ryan, Ober was eligible for arbitration for the first time ($3.55 million), and a new deal could provide value for both sides. There have been some comparable extensions in recent seasons, including the five-year, $77-million deal Mitch Keller signed with the Pirates and the five-year, $64-million deal Cristian Javier signed with the Astros. Given his profile, a deal between those two price points might be a sweet spot. 3. Royce Lewis - The Superstar Bet If the Twins want to bet big on the future face of the franchise, Lewis is that guy. He’s shown MVP-level potential when healthy, delivering clutch moments and elite offensive production in limited action. In 2023, he posted a .921 OPS with 15 home runs and seven doubles in 58 games. However, injuries have clouded his long-term outlook and hurt his performance; he had a merely solid 107 OPS+ last season. Lewis reached arbitration this year and is set to make $1.625 million, but the Twins could try to lock him in early in his career. If the new ownership group believes in his durability, a long-term deal (perhaps in the seven- or eight-year range) could be their signature move. 4. Ryan Jeffers - Locking Down the Catching Position The Twins don’t have a clear-cut catcher in the pipeline, and the catching market is always volatile. These two factors might open a new ownership group to an extension with Ryan Jeffers. His offensive breakout in 2023 and steady defensive work have positioned him as a legitimate everyday catcher. Jeffers took strides backward offensively and defensively last season, but the Twins might believe in his long-term value and potential performance. He played in a career-high 122 games and had a .791 OPS in the first half. Minnesota has used a two-catcher rotation for years, so Jeffers would need another catching partner. He is in his second arbitration year ($4.55 million), meaning his price tag is only going up. Catchers with offensive upside don’t come cheap, so a deal in the three- or four-year range could provide security at a key position while keeping payroll flexibility intact. A new ownership group means a fresh approach to roster building. If they want to make an immediate splash, prioritizing contract extensions for core players is a smart way to do it. Investing in homegrown talent has been a winning formula for many successful franchises, and perhaps the Twins’ next era will follow suit. How should the Twins prioritize these extensions? Are there any the team should avoid? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Top prospect lists only tell part of the story when it comes to organizational depth. So, let’s have some fun and draft two teams that only contain top Twins prospects. Then you decide on the best squad. Image courtesy of Photos: William Parmeter (Jenkins), Rob Thompson (Rodriguez) Most national outlets have released their top prospect list in recent weeks, making for some fun discussion about where prospects land on the rankings. Jamie Cameron and Cody Christie were inspired by MLB Pipeline’s Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo who recently mock drafted a 10-player team of prospects based on the top-10 players at each position. For this draft, Jamie and Cody used a similar 10-player team format but focused on prospect eligible players throughout the Twins system. Each team could only have one player per position, except for the outfield where there were three roster positions. For pitching, each team selected one right-handed and one left-handed pitcher. It was a snake style draft, which made for some fun strategy and surprising picks. So, who ended up with the best team? Let’s find out. NOTE: For the purposes of this draft, we considered Zebby Matthews ineligible after making his MLB debut in 2024. We kept these picks strictly to prospects who haven’t seen MLB action yet. Round 1 Christie (1st Overall): Emmanuel Rodriguez, OF Walker Jenkins is the consensus top prospect in the Twins organization but I went for Rodriguez with the first pick because I believe he can stick in center field. Obviously, he needs to stay healthy after being limited to 47 games last season. However, his upside is through the roof and the Twins have aggressively promoted him through the system. Rodriguez is going to be the cornerstone of my team at an up the middle position. Cameron (2nd Overall): Walker Jenkins, OF Wow, can’t say I saw a top five global prospect being available with the second pick, but I gratefully accept. Jenkins displayed an elite hit tool in 2024, reaching AA as a 19-year old, despite missing 60 games through injury in a season he called ‘disappointing’. I think the power is coming for Jenkins. He has a chance to be the best prospect in baseball this time next year, and could even be knocking on the door of the majors by the end of this season. Round 2 Cameron (3rd Overall): Luke Keaschall, 2B I’m focused on acquiring as much high end talent as possible, and Keaschall is clearly the third best prospect in the system currently. Planned TJ surgery cut his season short in August, but he thrived through two levels, managing a .416 wOBA and 158 wRC+ in 102 games with 15 bombs. Getting Jenkins and Keashcall despite picking second feels like a win, now things will get really interesting. Christie (4th Overall): Kaelen Culpepper, SS As with Rodriguez, I’m picking Culpepper to solidify the up-the-middle positions on my roster. During his professional debut (112 PA), he posted an impressive 110 wRC+ with a 13.4 K%. Many outlets believe he can stick at shortstop and his arm is good enough to stay on the left side of the infield if the Twins need to move him to third. The 2025 season is going to be big for Culpepper as he has a chance to move quickly into the system’s upper-levels. Round 3 Christie (5th Overall): Charlee Soto, RHP This was my toughest pick so far as I was wavering between selecting another position player or taking the pitcher I view as the system’s best. I decided on Soto because I believe he has the highest ceiling and the best chance to be a front-line starter. His fastball sits in the upper-90s, his changeup gets a lot of swings and misses, and his slider continues to improve. He has future ace written all over him and I’m excited that he’s anchoring my staff. Cameron (6th Overall): Connor Prielipp, LHP That’s two great picks from Cody. Soto has already made a top 100 and Culpepper made BA’s 100-200 list. Left-handed pitching is in short supply in the Twins system, so I’m taking Connor Prielipp here. While the injury history and lack of track record is a concern, it’s a tantalizing arsenal with a wipeout slider and a changeup that has come on leaps and bounds. Prielipp struck out over 40% of hitters after making his comeback last season. Round 4 Cameron (7th Overall): Kyle DeBarge, SS I had a few interesting options here, but I’m going to keep stacking exceptional hit tools. DeBarge took off in his junior year at ULL with a 21 home run season. He has a good approach at the plate and great bat-to-ball skills. He’ll handle shortstop just fine. The only question mark in his short debut was getting more consistent loft in his batted ball events. I’m counting on DeBarge to make short work on the low minors in 2025. Christie (8th Overall): Brandon Winokur, OF Last season, the Twins used Winokur at three different defensive positions including shortstop, third base, and center field. I’m selecting him to slot him into a corner outfield spot because he’s 6-foot-6 and will continue to fill out as he enters his 20s. Last season at Low-A, his OPS was over 100 points higher than the league average and added a 116 wRC+. He strikes out a lot (28.0 K%) but he’s going to have the power to make him an offensive threat. Round 5 Christie (9th Overall): Billy Amick, 3B Some strategy is starting to come into the draft as we enter the halfway point. We know the needs of the other team and that makes it easier to plan future picks. Amick’s professional debut showcased some positive signs for a player projected to be a slugger. He limited walks (19.5 K%) and controlled the strike zone (15.6 BB%). He hits the ball with authority and that’s what I want from the hot corner. Cameron (10th Overall): Rayne Doncon, 3B I have a value I like here with Doncon. Not a heralded prospect but he was quietly productive in 2024. Across A and A+ he put up a .773 OPS, 121 wRC+, with 38 extra base hits, walked 11% of the time and struck out at a 22% clip. That’s a really solid platform. Doncon has already entered some Twins top ten lists. He’s passed the tests presented to him so far. He’ll face a tough one with a jump to AA at some point in 2025. Round 6 Cameron (11th Overall): Yasser Mercedes, OF This was a tough pick as I had a few candidates in mind. Aside from some injury challenges in 2023, Mercedes has shown a bunch of above average tools. He has an .860 OPS with 56 extra base hits and 57 steals in 127 career games, all before turning 20 years old. Add solid strike zone control (12.3 BB% and 25 K%) to above average defense in centerfield and there’s an exciting prospect who showed folks why he secured a $1.7 million bonus in the international market. I thought about Beltre here, but I’m going with the track record in the US. Christie (12th Overall): Ricardo Olivar, C I left Mercedes on the board in the fifth round because I thought he’d make it to me with the 12th pick. Jamie had other plans and sniped him. Instead, I’m going to draft for need and take a catcher in Olivar even though I don’t fully trust his defensive chops. Over the last three seasons, his 143 wRC+ ranks second in the Twins system behind Rodriguez (my first overall pick). He gets on base and has enough pop to provide a ton of offensive value for a backstop. Round 7 Christie (13th Overall): Eduardo Beltre, OF This was my most challenging pick so far as I wavered between the high ceiling of Beltre or the lower floor with a player like Kala’i Rosario. Beltre signed for $1.5 million as part of last year’s international class and quickly made a name for himself in the Dominican Summer League. In 181 PA, he posted 177 wRC+ while ranking in the league’s top three for home runs, slugging percentage, and OPS. He’s a long way from Target Field but has the potential to be a dynamic player. Cameron (14th Overall): Payton Eeles, OF I thought about going Keirsey Jr here but that felt a little safe (and he’s 27). Instead, I’m going with Payton Eeles (who might be an infield option for Cody), mostly to recognize the incredible 2024 ride he had as an undrafted free agent (he logged time at CF and RF for the Saints). Eeles played 111 games across 3 MiLB levels in 2024, finishing the season at AAA. He hit .306 (.932 OPS) with 14% BB%, 14% K%, a 155 wRC+, and 39 extra base hits. The next 50 games or so will tell us if Eeles has a shot at major league playing time. Round 8 Cameron (15th Overall): Carson McCusker, 1B I’m going back to back undrafted free agents, taking McCusker as my big dude who dings dongs who can stand at first base. 6’8 and 250 pounds, McCusker is another unheralded prospect, but he managed a 132 wRC+ across 122 games in AA and AAA in 2024 (.841 OPS). It’s a lot of strikeouts (close to 30%), but he also hit 19 home runs. The power is real and if the timing is right, he might just get a shot with the big league club in 2025. Christie (16th Overall): Dasan Hill, LHP The Twins took Hill in the fourth round of last summer’s draft out of Grapevine high school in Texas. Some viewed him as a potential first round pick and Minnesota had to go overslot to sign him. He is a monster on the mound at 6-foot-5 with room to add some weight to his frame (165 pounds). His fastball is currently in the low-to-mid 90s and he pairs it with a pair of breakers and a changeup that lags behind the rest of the arsenal. The slider is the real deal. I’m not super excited about both pitchers on my roster being high school picks, but their upside is undeniable. Round 9 Christie (17th Overall): Dameury Pena, 2B There are some clear comps to Pena and former Twin Luis Arráez. After signing in 2023, he posted a .382 BA during his pro debut in the Dominican Summer League. Last season, Pena came stateside and posted a .282 BA while his wRC+ dropped from 156 to 120. He’s going to need to find a way to keep hitting for a high average for the Arráez comps to continue. Cameron (18th Overall): Andrew Morris, RHP Andrew Morris has a good chance to remain a starter and will make his major league debut in 2025. Like Zebby Matthews, his stuff has continued to tick up since turning pro to add to a close-to-elite strike throwing profile. It’s a five pitch mix for Morris, with a plus fastball and slider and average cutter, curveball, and changeup. He posted a 2.36 FIP in 133 innings in 2024 (striking out 25% of hitters and walking just 5.9% while reaching AAA). Don’t be surprised if Morris has a tweaked arsenal when he reports for Spring Training. It’s likely a back end profile but he could end up a strong number three if he continues to miss bats at a solid clip. Round 10 Cameron (19th Overall): Khadim Diaw, C The Twins draft board held up better than expected for hitters in 2024 and they took Diaw in the third round, 96th overall. He’ll be 21 for almost all of the 2025 season and there’s plenty to like in the profile. In his first 100 late appearances at A ball, he hit .271/.374/.341 (.715), walking 11.1% of the time and striking out just 14%. His wRC+ of 114 is a solid start to his pro career, particularly for a catcher. Age and positional scarcity are on his side. He might progress a little slower than some of his college hitting counterparts from the 2024 class, but he’s worth keeping an eye on in 2025. Christie (20th Overall): Yunior Severino, 1B It seems fitting for Severino to be the Mr. Irrelevant in our mock draft. In 2023, he led all the minor leagues in home runs with 35 between Double- and Triple-A. Following the season, the Twins added him to the 40-man roster to protect him from the Rule 5 Draft. The 2024 campaign was a disappointment as his wRC+ dropped to 101 but he cut back on strikeouts (27.3 K%) and drew more walks (11.9 BB%). The Twins believed enough in him to resign him, and he gets another shot to prove 2023 wasn’t a fluke. Pos. Team Christie Team Cameron C Ricardo Olivar Khadim Diaw 1B Yunior Severino Carson McCusker 2B Dameury Pena Luke Keaschall 3B Billy Amick Rayne Doncon SS Kaelen Culpepper Kyle DeBarge OF Emmanuel Rodriguez Walker Jenkins OF Brandon Winokur Yasser Mercedes OF Eduardo Beltre Payton Eeles LHP Dasan Hill Connor Prielipp RHP Charlee Soto Andrew Morris Team Christie Draft Recap: I probably overthought the first pick and should have gone with the best available player. However, I had a specific strategy in mind, and I’m happy with how the up-the-middle players shaped up early in the draft. My outfield has a lot of power potential and my pitchers might be the organization’s highest upside arms. On defense, my outfielders have all played center field and I think the double-play duo can be strong. The Twins continue to do a strong job of drafting, signing, and developing players and this draft showcases some of those strengths. Team Cameron Draft Recap: I’m happy with how my team turned out. I landed who I see as the Twins best and third best prospects, and have a ton of great hit tools in this lineup. I’d add that I feel good about my team’s defense in general, although I definitely came up short in the power category. I like the balance of having a high floor righty to go with a high ceiling lefty as my pitching group. This was a fun exercise and highlights some of the depth of the Twins system beyond the top 3-6 prospects who are discussed the most. Who has the best team? Who was picked too low? Too high? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Kala’i Rosario has consistently moved up the Twins system since being drafted in 2020. Now in the upper minors, the 2025 campaign is shaping up to be a make-or-break year for the slugging outfielder. Image courtesy of Ed Bailey, Wichita Wind Surge (photo of Kala'i Rosario) The Minnesota Twins took a calculated risk this offseason when they left outfielder Kala’i Rosario unprotected in the Rule 5 Draft—no teams bit, leaving Rosario to continue his development within the organization. As he enters the 2025 season, the former Midwest League MVP (2023) faces a pivotal campaign that could determine his future with the franchise. Rosario’s journey has been one of steady progression, but it has also included challenges that have tested his ability to adapt. The 2020 fifth-round pick out of high school in Hawaii has climbed the organizational ladder step by step. His 2023 campaign was his most productive to date, earning him league MVP honors at High-A Cedar Rapids. In 118 games, he hit .252/.364/.467 (.832) with 21 home runs and 27 doubles. He led the league in home runs and RBI while finishing in the top 10 in SLG, OPS, hits, doubles, and walks. It was an impressive campaign for a team that won the league championship. Rosario looked to build off that campaign, but an elbow injury sidelined him for a significant portion of 2024 at Double-A Wichita. The results were mixed when he was on the field as he hit .235/.321/.405 (.726) with 19 doubles and eight home runs in 67 games. His walk rate dipped from 14.2% in 2023 to 11.4% last season. Unfortunately, his strikeout rate continues to hover around 30%, which is something to watch as he gets more playing time in the upper minors. For Rosario, the 2025 season is about proving he belongs at the highest levels of the minor leagues and, ultimately, earning a shot at Target Field. A return to Double-A to start the year seems likely, given his limited time there in 2024, but a strong showing could quickly push him to Triple-A St. Paul. The Twins will watch closely to see if he can make the necessary adjustments against upper-level pitching. One of Rosario’s biggest strengths is his ability to drive the ball with authority. His raw power is legitimate, and if he can tap into it consistently, he could become a 20-25 home run threat in the big leagues. He made a significant mechanical adjustment at the end of 2022, widening his base to quiet his lower half, which allowed him to generate power more efficiently. That change paid dividends in 2023, as he not only hit for power but also improved his plate discipline, cutting down on his chase rate and increasing his walks. His sample size was small in 2024, so it’s hard to decipher if he would have been able to build off those changes. However, questions remain about his ability to handle more advanced pitching. While he feasts on fastballs, he still struggles with quality-breaking balls. His front hip tends to pull early, making him susceptible to pitches on the outer half. Continuing to refine his approach and improving his ability to adjust mid-swing will be crucial as he faces better arms in 2025. Defensively, Rosario is limited to a corner outfield spot, but he has a plus arm that has proven to be a weapon. He racked up 14 assists in 2023, demonstrating the ability to cut down runners with strong, accurate throws. His range is fringe-average, but if his bat plays up, he could carve out a role as a power-hitting right fielder at the major league level. With the Twins boasting a solid group of young outfielders ahead of him, Rosario’s margin for error is shrinking. If he can build on previous success and put together a strong 2025 season, he could position himself for a late-season call-up or, at the very least, a 40-man roster spot heading into 2026. If he struggles, however, he could fall behind in the pecking order, and he might need to hope for an opportunity with another organization. This year is all about proving he belongs. The power is there, the patience is improving, and the tools are enticing. Now, it’s time for Rosario to show the Twins that he’s more than just a prospect and that he can be a future big leaguer. What are your impressions of Rosario? Can he be a contributor at the big-league level? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

The Twins' offseason has been relatively quiet until last week additions So, where does the Twins’ current payroll sit, and do the Pohlads care how high it goes? Image courtesy of © David Berding-Imagn Images The Minnesota Twins have had an interesting offseason, announcing the team's potential sale and relatively few roster changes until last week. The front office agreed to deal with Danny Coulombe and Harrison Bader for a combined $9.25 million. While these moves improve the team’s bullpen and outfield depth, they also raise questions about the organization’s payroll strategy. The Pohlads, long known for their measured spending habits, slashed payroll from $158 million in 2023 to $130 million last season. Early indications were that the 2025 payroll would remain around that mark, yet the Twins currently sit at an estimated $146 million. So, what changed? One possibility is that ownership has decided to loosen the purse strings slightly in an effort to keep the roster competitive. After all, the team was left reeling at the end of 2025 after one of the worst collapses in team history. However, there have also been rumors that the Twins are shopping veterans like Willi Castro, Christian Vázquez, and Chris Paddack. Each of these players fills a critical role, whether as a versatile utility option (Castro), an experienced catcher (Vázquez), or a back-end starter (Paddack). Trading any of them would take away from the team’s depth, so why explore those moves if payroll isn’t a significant issue? Another potential explanation is that the Pohlads are preparing to sell the team. Reports indicate that new ownership could be in place by midseason, meaning the current regime may not be overly concerned with keeping payroll at a strict level. By June, another owner might be writing the payroll checks so it won’t be the Pohlads’ problem. If the Pohlads are indeed on their way out, they might be willing to increase spending as a parting gift to fans, allowing the Twins to remain competitive without the expected financial constraints. President of Baseball Operations Derek Falvey recently spoke on the subject, acknowledging that the team had been granted additional financial flexibility. The spending space came about after Twins chairman Joe Pohlad “greenlighted… the ability to add a little bit here to this team. I think that’s a credit to them and certainly a tick up for us that allows us to add a little bit more to this roster that we feel already had a good base, but now we’ve clicked off some of those needs." Falvey also discussed that the trade market has cooled in recent weeks as teams prepare to head to spring training. This could mean the Twins trio of expiring contracts might stay with the club. However, the Twins have made trades late in previous offseasons, so never say never when it comes to this front office. “I think teams are a little more focused internally now as they’re ready to ship off to Arizona and Florida and try to get things squared away [for Spring Training],” Falvey said. “Some of those last remaining free agents, I think that’s been the vast majority of the noise.” Yes, the Pohlads were willing to stretch the budget beyond initial projections, but it remains unclear just how far they are willing to go. Some reports have the Twins interested in adding a backup shortstop, which would likely put the team’s payroll closer to $150 million. Will the Twins continue to make additions, or will they look to trim payroll before Opening Day? If the team does end up moving one or more veterans, it could signal that ownership is still mindful of finances, even as they prepare for a potential sale. For now, the Twins ownership has pushed the payroll, but other moves would likely need to come via trade. The additional spending has allowed them to solidify their roster, but the looming uncertainty surrounding ownership makes future moves challenging to predict. It seems a foregone conclusion that the Pohlads are on their way out the door, and they may be willing to let payroll rise as a final gesture of goodwill to the fans. Either way, Twins Territory will watch closely to see how the situation unfolds. Do the Twins have any more wiggle room in the payroll for 2025? What’s the team’s most significant need at this point? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

After recent signings, the Twins' most significant roster need is at first base. Can the club’s do-it-all utility man add first base to his defensive repertoire? Image courtesy of © Matt Blewett-Imagn Images Versatility has been Willi Castro’s calling card since arriving in Minnesota, and now the Twins might be asking him to add yet another position to his defensive résumé. At last month’s Diamond Awards, manager Rocco Baldelli floated the idea of Castro seeing time at first base in 2025, which is a position he has never played professionally. With Carlos Santana’s departure, the Twins have a glaring hole at first base, and Castro’s adaptability could make him an intriguing option. The Versatility Record-Setter Last season, Castro made history by becoming the first player in MLB history to appear in at least 20 games at five different positions in a single season. His ability to play nearly everywhere on the diamond was invaluable for the Twins, mainly when injuries tested the team’s depth. He played every infield position except first base, and now the Twins might be looking to complete the set. While his defensive versatility is an asset, first base presents a unique challenge. The Twins have put some unconventional options at first base in recent years, including Luis Arráez. Unlike the outfield or middle infield, first base requires strong footwork, instincts, and the ability to pick throws out of the dirt. Sometimes, it takes multiple years for a player to acclimate to first, and those skills that Castro has yet to showcase professionally. Who Else Is in the Mix? With Santana gone, the current first base depth chart is murky. José Miranda has the most experience at first base, but his defense remains a question mark. Last season, Miranda had a .888 OPS in the first half and a .543 OPS in the second half. First basemen must produce offensively, and he struggled down the stretch. Edouard Julien has struggled defensively at second base and doesn’t project as an ideal first baseman either. He also struggled last season to the point where the team sent him to Triple-A. Neither Miranda nor Julien brings the defensive stability that Santana provided, which is why the Twins might be exploring creative solutions like Castro. It’s clear that Castro brings athleticism to the table, and if he can develop the necessary skills, he could become an intriguing stopgap option. However, he is a free agent at the end of the season, so it would indeed be a one-year fix for the Twins. Minnesota has leaned on Castro to fill defensive holes before, and he’s handled those challenges well. However, first base requires specific skills that take time to develop, and there’s no guarantee Castro can make the transition seamlessly. Playing Castro at first also takes him away from other, more valuable defensive positions. A Realistic Plan or Just an Idea? Baldelli’s comments during Twins Fest weekend suggest that the Twins are at least considering Castro at first base, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will happen. The team could look externally for another option, whether through free agency or a trade, before Opening Day. It’s also possible that Castro’s ability to play all over the field remains too valuable for the Twins to lock him into a single position. If Castro does get reps at first base, it will likely be a work in progress during spring training. The Twins’ coaching staff would need to work with him extensively to develop his footwork and scooping ability. He has the athleticism to make it work, but playing first base at a Gold Glove-caliber level, like Santana, is a tall order. The Twins will get less defensive value at first base in 2025, which might be a tough pill to swallow for a young pitching staff where every out is critical. Castro’s versatility has been a game-changer for the Twins, and adding first base to his toolset could further increase his value. However, jumping to an entirely new position at the major league level is no small task. It seems most likely that the Twins would use a combination of Miranda, Julien, and Castro at first base. If the Twins don’t add a proven first baseman before Opening Day, Castro could get a shot, but whether he sticks there long-term remains to be seen. Would you like to see Castro get a look at first base, or should the Twins seek outside help? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

The article you linked above was based on national outlets putting out grades for the offseason. When I wrote that article, most of the discussion around the Twins was that they would need to trade away a player before they had any payroll space to add anything. I can only write based on the available information and reports at that time had the team with little or no money to spend. I don't think many people saw the Twins spending nearly $10 million in free agency. Thankfully, that has not come to fruition and they have been able to make two small additions. According to WAR projections, neither player moved the needle a lot for the team's overall WAR. However, it has added depth which will help when injuries arise.

Twins fans have been clamoring for the front office to do something this winter. With the team’s recent additions, is Minnesota the most improved team in the AL Central this winter? (It's not as crazy as it sounds.) Image courtesy of Colt Keith (Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images), Jose Ramirez (© David Dermer-Imagn Images), Bobby Witt Jr (Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images), Royce Lewis (© Peter Aiken-Imagn Images), Andrew Vaughn (Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images) Many fans can get hyper-focused on their favorite team and not see how other rosters are improving around the baseball world (outside of the Dodgers and the Monopoly money they have been throwing around this winter, that is). Projection systems had the Twins with the AL’s fourth-best roster entering the winter, because of the organizational depth at many positions. There were still needs for the Twins to fill, and Minnesota’s front office has patiently waited for the market to play itself out before signing left-handed reliever Danny Coulombe and outfielder Harrison Bader. Those moves might seem like minimal additions, but they put the Twins in contention for the AL Central’s most improved team. Minnesota Twins November Projected WAR: 44.5 February Projected WAR: 44.8 (+0.3 WAR) The Twins saw outfielder Max Kepler, first baseman Carlos Santana, and infielder Kyle Farmer leave in free agency, but the team already had replacements for that value on the roster. Adding Bader as a platoon option for Matt Wallner and Trevor Larnach helps, but his most significant added value comes as insurance in center field for Byron Buxton. The Twins hope Buxton can play 100 games for the second consecutive season, but there are no guarantees. Coulombe fits the left-handed bullpen role for the Twins, but isn’t a significant upgrade for a bullpen that was projected to be baseball’s best. Kansas City Royals November Projected WAR: 40.8 February Projected WAR: 39.4 (-1.4 WAR) Entering the offseason, Kansas City had the second-highest projected WAR among AL Central clubs, but the team has gotten worse this winter. The Royals' free agent list included shortstop Paul DeJong, second baseman Adam Frazier, and pitchers Michael Lorenzen and Michael Wacha. Wacha and Lorenzen have already re-signed with the club. Righty Kyle Wright, acquired last winter, is returning from shoulder surgery but will likely be on an innings limit. In November, Kansas City traded right-handed starter Brady Singer to Cincinnati for second baseman Jonathan India and left fielder Joey Wiemer. Last season, the Royals surprised many with their run to the playoffs, but the team has some clear holes in the lineup, and Bobby Witt Jr. can only take the team so far. Cleveland Guardians November Projected WAR: 39.6 February Projected WAR: 38.1 (-1.5 WAR) Cleveland seems to always be in contention for the AL Central title, and their front office has spent the winter shuffling roster pieces to fit inside the team’s budgetary constraints. Entering the winter, the team’s top free agents were starters Shane Bieber, Matthew Boyd and Alex Cobb. Bieber re-signed with Cleveland, but Cobb jumped over to Detroit. The Guardians have also traded away first baseman Josh Naylor, second baseman Andrés Giménez, and righty reliever Nick Sandlin, which takes away significant value. Cleveland also re-signed Austin Hedges, brought back Carlos Santana after his latest sojourns elsewhere, and added Paul Sewald to replace some projected WAR. On paper, the Guardians are a worse team than last year, but that hasn’t stopped them from contending in previous seasons. Detroit Tigers November Projected WAR: 37.5 February Projected WAR: 40.7 (+3.2 WAR) The Tigers had few players leave the team in free agency this winter, which helped the club start at a high point. The team’s most significant offseason additions have been signing starter Jack Flaherty, second baseman Gleyber Torres, Cobb, and reliever Tommy Kahnle. Starting pitching and infield depth were two of the team’s most significant needs entering the offseason, so the Torres and Cobb deals significantly raised the club’s projected WAR total. Alex Bregman is still a free agent, and Detroit could become the AL Central favorites if their ownership is willing to give the star third baseman a long-term deal. Chicago White Sox November Projected WAR: 24.3 February Projected WAR: 23.0 (-1.3 WAR) The White Sox had a free agent list that included hurlers Mike Clevinger and Chris Flexen and third baseman Yoán Moncada. Chicago’s roster is significantly flawed, and the 2025 season is shaping up to be another rough year on the South Side. The most significant loss in WAR this winter was the team trading their ace, left starter Garret Crochet, to the Boston Red Sox for a package of four players. Chicago is bad and will be rebuilding for multiple seasons. Minnesota’s minor moves have not significantly improved the team, but the club’s roster was already starting from a higher point than the rest of the AL Central. Detroit has seen the most significant projected WAR increase, which can help a club that finished ahead of the Twins in 2024. The other three AL Central teams have gotten worse this winter, which might help Minnesota find a way back to the top of the division. Do you agree with the projected WAR totals? Are the Twins the clear favorite in the AL Central? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

The National Baseball Hall of Fame announced the results of this year’s voting in recent weeks. For three former Twins players, the results may help their long-term chances of getting into Cooperstown. Image courtesy of Bruce Kluckhohn (Nathan), Jason Bridge (Hunter), Jerry Lai (Santana)-USA TODAY Sports The 2025 Hall of Fame voting cycle brought long-awaited triumph for some and lingering uncertainty for others. Three former Twins players were impacted in multiple ways, from Billy Wagner’s dramatic election to Torii Hunter’s narrow survival on the ballot. Meanwhile, the precedent set by CC Sabathia’s induction could open doors for starters, including Johan Santana, whose case remains unresolved. Here’s a closer look at how this year’s results shape some notable former Twins' Hall of Fame futures. Wagner’s Induction Raises Questions for Joe Nathan After a decade of climbing the ballot, Billy Wagner finally secured his place in Cooperstown in his 10th and final year of eligibility. His election validates the impact of dominant relievers in modern baseball. Still, it also brings renewed scrutiny to one of the best closers of his generation who has yet to receive his due: Joe Nathan. Nathan’s career numbers put him in elite company. He was a six-time All-Star and the anchor of the Twins’ bullpen during their 2000s run of AL Central dominance. His résumé that holds up well compared to Wagner’s. His 2.87 career ERA is just a tick higher than Wagner’s 2.31, and his 377 career saves rank ahead of Hall of Famers like Rollie Fingers and Bruce Sutter. Among pitchers with at least 900 innings pitched, only Wagner and Nolan Ryan have a lower Hits per Nine Innings ratio. He topped the 30-save mark in nine seasons, including accumulating 40 or more saves in four seasons. Even as a reliever, he had multiple top-five finishes in the AL Cy Young Award Voting. Also, Nathan ranks in the top-7 all-time relief pitchers using a hybrid average of WAR, WPA, and situational or context-neutral wins (WPA/LI). Even with these accolades, Nathan’s Hall of Fame candidacy was barely a consideration for the Hall of Fame electorate. Nathan compares well to Wagner in multiple ways, but his Hall of Fame candidacy was short-lived. In 2022, he first appeared on the ballot and received 17 of 394 votes (4.3%). He fell three votes shy of staying on the ballot and received the most votes of any player who fell off the ballot that voting cycle. It was a crowded year to be on the ballot because Barry Bonds, Roger Clemens, and Curt Schilling were in their final year of eligibility. Some tough choices needed to be made, with writers being limited to 10 votes per ballot. With Wagner’s induction, Nathan’s case for Cooperstown gains new relevance, but his path is now solely in the hands of the Eras Committee. His dominance during his peak, particularly in Minnesota, should put him on their radar, but relievers have historically faced an uphill battle. Torii Hunter Stays Alive, And Gains Hope from Andruw Jones Torii Hunter entered this election cycle teetering on the edge of ballot elimination, needing 5% of the vote to remain in consideration. He finished just one vote above that threshold in a tight race, keeping his candidacy alive for at least another year. Hunter’s case for the Hall has always been a difficult one. He was never the game’s best hitter, but his blend of power (353 home runs) and defense (nine Gold Gloves) made him one of the most well-rounded outfielders of his era. His 50.2 career WAR (per Baseball Reference) puts him in a gray area, better than some Hall of Famers but behind clear-cut inductees. His defensive impact in center field helped define his era, a rare achievement in a sport increasingly driven by offense. He is one of seven players in MLB history with 350+ home runs and 9+ Gold Gloves. One factor working in Hunter’s favor is the recent momentum for Jones, another elite defensive outfielder from the same era. Jones saw his vote total rise from near-elimination (7.3% in 2018) to over 66% in 2025, putting him within striking distance of Cooperstown. If Jones can break through in the coming years, it could bolster the argument for other elite defenders, including Hunter. Next year’s ballot also presents a window of opportunity. With no surefire first-ballot inductees debuting in 2026, Hunter has a chance to make meaningful progress. He could eventually position himself for serious consideration if he can begin a steady climb like Jones. CC Sabathia’s Election Could Help Starters Like Johan Santana One of the biggest stories of the 2025 election was Sabathia’s first ballot induction. As a true workhorse in an era where complete games became rare, Sabathia’s election signals that voters are willing to recognize starting pitchers. This group has been underrepresented in recent years. That could be good news for another former Twins ace, Johan Santana. Santana, a two-time Cy Young winner and arguably the best pitcher in baseball from 2004-2008, fell off the ballot in his first year of eligibility, receiving only 2.4% of the vote in 2018. His relatively short career (12 seasons) hurt his case, but his peak was as dominant as any pitcher of his time. His 2006 season, in which he won the AL Triple Crown for pitchers, remains one of the greatest performances in modern history. With Sabathia’s induction, voters may reconsider how they evaluate starting pitchers. If peak dominance starts carrying more weight than longevity, Santana should receive renewed attention through the Eras Committee. Other pitchers with short but elite peaks, such as Sandy Koufax, have made it to Cooperstown, and Santana’s case deserves similar consideration. The 2025 Hall of Fame class brought celebration for some and frustration for others. Wagner’s election shines a spotlight on overlooked relievers like Nathan. Hunter narrowly survived elimination and has a path forward, especially if Jones reaches Cooperstown. Meanwhile, Sabathia’s induction could change how voters evaluate pitchers, which may eventually benefit Santana. For Twins fans, these results highlight the challenges and opportunities facing former franchise greats. The road to Cooperstown is rarely straightforward, but the conversation isn't over for Nathan, Hunter, and Santana. Who out of this trio should make the Hall of Fame? Leave a comment and start this discussion. View full article

The Twins have been quiet this offseason, with minimal moves made around the margins and a couple late signings. With spring training on the horizon, who is projected to make the team’s Opening Day roster? Image courtesy of © Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports Despite the lack of splashy additions, the team is positioned to enter the 2025 season with a strong core of returning players. Last month, Seth Stohs looked at the team’s projected roster, but there have been some changes since that point. Let’s take a look at the projected Opening Day roster and how the lineup might shake out based on matchups. Starting Rotation (5): RHP Pablo López, RHP Bailey Ober, RHP Joe Ryan, RHP Simeon Woods Richardson, RHP Chris Paddack Minnesota’s rotation remains largely intact from last season, with López set to lead the staff. Ober and Ryan provide stability, while Woods Richardson is expected to take on a larger role. Paddack, now further removed from Tommy John surgery, will look to regain his pre-injury form. David Festa and Zebby Matthews could push for spots if injuries arise, while Brent Headrick offers a left-handed alternative. There is no such thing as too much pitching depth, but the Twins are in a good spot at the start of spring training. However, the club has been rumored to be interested in adding another frontline starting pitcher like San Diego’s Dylan Cease. More depth can help the club through the rigors of a 162-game season. Others on the 40-man roster: RHP David Festa, RHP Zebby Matthews, RHP Travis Adams, LHP Brent Headrick, RHP Marco Raya Bullpen (8): RHP Jhoan Durán, RHP Griffin Jax, RHP Cole Sands, LHP Danny Coulombe, RHP Jorge Alcalá, RHP Justin Topa, RHP Michael Tonkin, RHP Eiberson Castellano (Rule 5), RHP Brock Stewart (IL) Durán remains one of the most electric closers in baseball, while Jax continues to be a high-leverage weapon. Sands and Coulombe provide middle-relief depth and (especially in Sands's case) some serious upside, with Alcalá looking to build off a strong 2024. Tonkin and Topa bring experience, while Castellano will need to stay on the roster as a Rule 5 pick. Louie Varland, Kody Funderburk, and Matt Canterino provide intriguing depth options. Brock Stewart is a little behind heading into spring training, which might put him on the IL to begin the year. However, limiting Stewart’s innings in the season’s early months might help him to be more available in the season’s second half. Others on the 40-man roster: RHP Louie Varland, LHP Kody Funderburk, RHP Matt Canterino, RHP Ronny Henriquez (Out of Options) Catchers (2): Ryan Jeffers, Christian Vázquez Jeffers and Vázquez are expected to split the bulk of the playing time, as the duo has done over the last two seasons. It will be interesting to see if the Twins give Jeffers a higher percentage of the work since Vázquez is in the final year of his deal—assuming, of course, that Vázquez is still around come Opening Day. Jair Camargo got his feet wet at the big-league level last season, but the Twins seemed hesitant to use him behind the plate. The Twins have also added multiple catching options to the 40-man roster this winter including former top prospect Diego Cartaya and utility man Mickey Gasper. Minnesota could start using a three-man catching rotation if any of the other catchers start to produce at Triple-A. Others on 40-man roster: Jair Camargo, Diego Cartaya Infielders (6): Jose Miranda, Brooks Lee, Royce Lewis, Carlos Correa, Edouard Julien, Willi Castro Lewis and Correa form one of the league’s most dynamic left sides of the infield, assuming they stay healthy. Julien provides a potent left-handed bat at second, while Lee could push for more playing time as he develops. There is also a chance the Twins have Lee start the season at Triple-A, so he can play regularly enough. Miranda’s bat gives him a role at first or DH, with Castro providing valuable utility depth. Mickey Gasper and Michael Helman are on standby in Triple-A. Others on 40-man roster: Mickey Gasper, Michael Helman Outfielders (5): Trevor Larnach, Byron Buxton, Matt Wallner, Harrison Bader, Austin Martin The outfield mix hinges on Buxton’s availability. If he’s healthy, he remains the team’s center fielder and offensive catalyst. Minnesota added Bader as an insurance option behind Buxton Wednesday, and he continues to be one of baseball's best outfield defenders (10 OAA, 95th percentile). DaShawn Keirsey is a strong backup option in center, but his flaws will come to the forefront if he is forced into an everyday role. Larnach and Wallner bring power from the corners, while Martin offers versatility and speed. Emmanuel Rodriguez is a high-upside prospect to watch later in the season. Others on 40-man roster: Emmanuel Rodriguez, Michael Helman, DaShawn Keirsey While this roster seems likely to break camp with the team, there are still questions to answer in spring training. Will Castellano stick as a Rule 5 pick? Will Festa push Paddack (if he's around) for a rotation spot? Will any non-roster invitees force their way onto the team? With plenty of competition and depth waiting in the wings, the Twins will have decisions to make before Opening Day. Are these the 26 players who will come north with the Twins? What would your ideal lineup look like? Leave a comment and join the discussion. View full article

Adding Harrison Bader also helps the team's value in center field. Especially on the defensive side.

The Twins might have a secret strategy for winning in 2025. They may be successful at gaining value in positions where other teams struggle. What are those positions? I’m glad you asked. Image courtesy of © Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images MLB Network recently finished counting down the top 10 players at every position at the onset of the 2025 campaign. There are always flaws with this type of voting, but the Twins did well at some positions, while other players were undervalued. MLB Network released their overall rankings of the positions to cap off their rankings. The top three ranked positions were shortstop, relief pitcher, and right fielder, where the Twins project to do well. Carlos Correa can play at an MVP level (if his feet cooperate); Matt Wallner may be poised for a breakout season; and the Twins project to have baseball’s best bullpen. There are multiple positions at the bottom of the rankings where the Twins can pick up significant value, compared to other teams in the AL Central. If the Twins expect to contend, these three positions might be the most important on the roster. Position: Center Field MLB Position Rank: 11/11 Minnesota’s Projected Starter: Byron Buxton Some of baseball’s best players in center field from 2024 are expected to see more time in corner spots this season, including Aaron Judge, Mike Trout, and Jarren Duran. Julio Rodríguez, Jackson Merrill, and Michael Harris II are some of the top players in the position, along with Buxton. In 2024, Buxton put himself back on the map by playing in over 100 games for only the second time in his career. His offensive totals were also among his career-best. His 138 OPS+ was the second-highest career mark, with only his 2021 season ranking higher. His xSLG, wOBA, and xwOBACON ranked in the top 7% among MLB hitters. He also dropped his strikeout rate from 31.4% in 2023 to 26.0%. Among AL center fielders, only Judge ranked higher than Buxton in wRC+, SLG, and xwOBA. He was a borderline All-Star and provided the Twins with more value than the team likely expected entering the season. This offseason has been the first time in over half a decade that he has been healthy, and that could help him claim the title of baseball’s best center fielder. Position: Starting Pitcher MLB Position Rank: 9/11 Minnesota’s Projected Starters: Pablo López, Bailey Ober, Joe Ryan, Simeon Woods Richardson, Chris Paddack Starting pitching has evolved in recent years, so teams must build organizational depth at one of baseball’s most critical positions. Gone are the days when individual pitchers regularly threw 200+ innings with a sub-3.00 ERA. However, the Twins' top three starters are projected to be among the best in the American League, with some rankings having them as the lone AL squad with three pitchers ranked in baseball’s top 50. Injuries are always a question mark with starting pitching, so it will be critical for the Twins to have depth. That’s also one of the reasons the Twins have been tied to trade rumors for another front-line starting pitcher (like San Diego’s Dylan Cease), because there is no such thing as too much starting pitching. The Twins also have depth behind the projected five-man rotation listed above. David Festa and Zebby Matthews were two of the team’s top pitching prospects last season, and they are still among the organization’s best players who are 25 or younger. Other top pitching prospects, such as Marco Raya, Matt Canterino, Brent Headrick, and Travis Adams, are scheduled to join this duo in St. Paul. Last season, the Twins had 10 different pitchers make a start at the big-league level, so it takes far more than a five-man rotation to make it through 162 games. Other teams don’t have depth like Minnesota's, and that could play to the Twins’ advantage. Dark Horse Position: Second Base MLB Position Rank: 8/11 Minnesota’s Projected Starters: Brooks Lee, Edouard Julien The Twins have a clear advantage in center field and starting pitching, but second base might be a dark horse position for the team to gain value. Lee and Julien are scheduled to see the bulk of the playing time, but they each have much to prove after disappointing 2024 seasons. Julien was looking to build off a rookie campaign in which he posted a 130 OPS+, but he scuffled to a 74 OPS+ in 2024. Lee was one of baseball’s best prospects entering last season, with his bat-to-ball skills being touted in the minors. He combined for a 64 OPS+ in the majors, instead, while battling multiple injuries. The Twins still believe in the long-term value of both players, so the 2025 campaign will be critical for their development. There is also a discussion of Royce Lewis starting to see some time at second base. Minnesota seems committed to him as the team’s third baseman, but the team prioritizes players with defensive flexibility. Lewis, like Lee and Julien, struggled in the season’s second half, with his OPS dropping by .400 compared to the first half. Second base might become a question of which bats are hitting the best at a given portion of the season. Still, the trio of second-base options has the potential for high offensive output if they return to the expectations each had entering last season. Can the Twins be successful by gaining value at positions where other teams struggle? Leave a comment and start the discussion. View full article

Every MLB franchise looks for the next "Moneyball" strategy. The Twins might have just discovered a new advantage, in a market that has never been more inefficient. Image courtesy of Zachary BonDurant, USA Today In a move that has left economists scratching their heads and baseball executives chuckling into their Tim Hortons coffee, the Minnesota Twins moved to head off possible U.S.-Canada trade tariffs in the most Minnesotan way possible: by hoarding Canadian baseball players, like a survivalist prepping for the next polar vortex. Faced with the harsh reality of increased costs on all goods crossing the northern border, the Twins’ front office made an aggressive pivot in their roster strategy, signing as many Canadians as possible before customs agents start taxing maple syrup, Justin Bieber memorabilia, and guys who catch lazy Larry Walker comps. “We crunched the numbers, and it turns out acquiring Canadian baseball players in bulk is actually cheaper than importing bats and gloves from Toronto,” said a source inside the organization, who may or may not have been dressed like a moose. Meet the New Canucks on the Block To reinforce their newfound commitment to our neighbors up north, the Twins have inked three under-the-radar Canadian free agents to minor-league deals: Gordie McPuckerson, LHP – A former curling champion turned flame-throwing reliever, McPuckerson was discovered throwing frozen lacrosse balls at a moose in the backwoods of Saskatchewan. Scouts were impressed by his ability to paint the corners while fending off an angry grizzly. Doug “Two-Toke” Reynolds, OF – A speedster from British Columbia, Reynolds reportedly uses an “herbal” approach to relax at the plate. When asked about his base-stealing skills, he simply nodded slowly and said, “Yeah, man.” Jean-Pierre Gauthier, SS – Known for his slick glove and ability to apologize after every diving stop, Gauthier is expected to provide elite clubhouse chemistry, if only because he constantly reminds teammates to “keep it light, eh?” Twins Canadian Connections Weigh-In While most MLB teams are focused on things like winning and advanced analytics, the Twins have long been pioneers in uniquely Canadian baseball strategies. Most notably, they've assiduously maintained a historical pipeline of “guys who could be playing hockey instead.” Former Twins slugger and Canadian baseball royalty Justin Morneau was asked for his thoughts on the sudden influx of fellow countrymen to the organization: "This is a proud day for Canadian baseball," Morneau said, wiping away a single patriotic tear as his children waved Canadian flags in the background. "For too long, we’ve had to watch our best players get taxed at the border. The fact that the Twins are stockpiling Canadians like a Costco-sized bag of ketchup chips is a game-changer.” Current Twins infielder and Québécois Edouard Julien is fully on board with the move, albeit with one minor complaint. "I love the idea of having more Canadians in the clubhouse," Julien said. "But could we maybe get some better coffee in the break room? I can’t keep drinking this ‘Folgers’ stuff. It’s messing with my OPS.” Former Twins third baseman and recent Twins Hall of Fame inductee Corey Koskie believes this could usher in a golden age for baseball in Minnesota. "It’s about time a team embraced the power of Canadian grit," Koskie declared. "Americans talk about playing through pain, but try taking a fastball to the chest in -40°F weather while wearing nothing but a LaBatt hoodie. That’s real toughness.” So, What’s Next? With Canada’s top talent flocking to the Land of 10,000 Lakes, the Twins’ next logical step is clear: petitioning MLB to play all home games in a snow-covered Target Field, thereby forcing opponents to endure full Canadian winter conditions. Rumors also persist that the front office is considering coaxing Joey Votto out of retirement to fill the team’s void at first base. In the meantime, Minnesota fans should prepare for an increasingly bilingual team, more apologies on close plays, and a sudden surge in post-game interviews ending with, "Yeah, good game, bud." If this plan works, the next wave of international tariffs might force the Twins to explore a similar strategy with other foreign-born players. Stay tuned. View full article